Best Public Golf Courses in Asheville, North Carolina

If you haven’t yet been to Asheville, North Carolina, you’ve been missing out.  This mountain town has quickly become one of the hottest vacation destinations on the East Coast.

It makes sense too.  There are endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and the quality of life has to be experienced to be believed.

That largely includes the area’s golf courses.  They’re some of the best you’ll come across anywhere.

I’ve only been here once, but I can’t wait to get back soon. 

In that light, I’ve employed the insights of our readers to come up with a list of the best public courses anyone can play.

Located in Fletcher, North Carolina, Broadmoor Golf Links is an iconic layout that affords stunning views of the Blueridge Mountains and the French Broad River Valley below. 

Designed by Karl Litten, Broadmoor’s Bermuda fairways and bent grass greens make for some of the best playing surfaces in the entire state. 

Target golf is how locals describe this track.  Length and accuracy are both required if you’re going to score.  Fortunately, the course ranges from less than 6,000 to almost 7,000 yards so it’s manageable for everybody.

A memorable round at a fair price.

One of the oldest courses in the western part of the state, Asheville Golf Course was designed by Donald Ross and opened for play in 1926.

The course’s features reflect that time period too.  The greens are small and many are elevated.  Deep bunkers stand guard and are waiting to punish errant approach shots.

One of the most affordable options in the Asheville area, I highly recommend Asheville Golf Course.

There’s no less than 27 holes of top-notch golf waiting for you at Etowah Golf Course.  The old school design dates back to 1967.

Rolling fairways and small greens are framed by stately trees that ask you to keep the ball in play.  From the course’s highest points, you’re treated to awe-inspiring mountain views. 

All three nines play firm and fast in the summer, especially the greens.  Err on the side of caution if you want to score.

If you come to Etowah, make time to play all three nines.  You won’t be disappointed.

Donald Ross was a busy guy in 1926.  Not only did he design Asheville Golf Course, he constructed Grove Park as well.

Ranked by Conde Nast Traveler as a “Top 20 Southern U.S. Golf Resort in the U.S.” in 2011, Grove Park features undulating fairways that are lined by trees.  As you might expect, accuracy is more important than length. 

If you’re looking to stay for a few days and play, the accommodations at the Omni Grove Park Inn are second to none.

Picturesque and relaxing.  That’s how locals and visitors alike describe a round at Reems Creek.  Even more, Golf Digest gave this course four stars and the prestigious “Best Places to Play” designation. 

Elevation changes can be found throughout this property.  While the high points afford fantastic views, club selection can be tricky. Sound strategy from the tee and into the greens is a must around here.  That’s especially true on the par-five 18^th where water comes into play on both the drive and approach.  The added pressure of a gallery from the restaurant above the green makes for a fun finish.

Conclusion

Asheville, North Carolina has something for everybody.  Whether you’re into art and culture, cuisine, or just want to spend as much time outside as you can, this town is tough to beat.

Having only been here once, I can assure you that you won’t want to leave once you get here.

For a town of its size, there are a number of quality options for public golf.  They range in price, and all provide a different experience.  But one thing’s for certain, they’re all a treat to play.

As always, I appreciate the help of everyone that made this guide possible.  If you feel I’ve left something out, please let me know down below in the comments.