Discover the Best Golf Courses Smoky Mountains Travelers Can’t Miss
The golf courses Smoky Mountains adventurers talk about aren’t just about playing a round—they’re immersive experiences packed with scenery, serenity, and Southern charm. Located throughout Eastern Tennessee and Western North Carolina, these mountain golf destinations offer stunning elevation changes, panoramic vistas, and challenges for every skill level. Whether you’re a solo golfer seeking crisp mountain air or vacationing with family, the Smokies provide a unique spin on the game.
From bustling towns like Gatlinburg and Highlands to peaceful retreats in Sevierville and Waynesville, you’ll find varied greens that cater to beginner and expert golfers alike. Let’s dive into some of the top-rated golf courses Smoky Mountains visitors return to year after year.
Top Public Golf Courses Smoky Mountains Golfers Love
No need to stay at a resort to enjoy breathtaking golf in the Smokies. Gatlinburg Golf Course in Pigeon Forge, TN, stands out among public options. Just minutes from Dollywood and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this course features dramatic elevation—especially at “Sky Hi,” a hole that launches from a 200-foot drop. Designed by William Langford and recently renovated, it’s ideal for players craving excitement and scenery.
Another favorite is Wild Laurel Golf Course in Townsend, TN. Located in a scenic nature preserve, this 18-hole course offers wide fairways, panoramic Smoky Mountain views, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s perfect for both new golfers and those seeking a relaxing round surrounded by Appalachian beauty.
Crossing into North Carolina, Maggie Valley Club & Resort offers semi-private play open to visitors. This par-72 course winds through valleys and ascends leafy hills, delivering a mix of technical play and breathtaking fall foliage. It’s a photographer’s dream and a golfer’s delight.
Most public courses here charge between $30 and $85 in green fees, depending on season. Many welcome juniors with discounted rates, making these family-friendly options that balance great golf with regional fun.
Top Resort Golf Courses Smoky Mountains Visitors Adore
Want to combine top-tier golf with plush accommodations and upscale dining? Look to the resort-level golf courses Smoky Mountains destinations are known for.
Sevierville Golf Club features two championship courses: The Highlands and The River. Both showcase mountain views and water features, offering serious players a dynamic challenge. Located near attractions like the Tanger Outlets and Wilderness at the Smokies, it’s a fantastic choice for families and couples alike.
Further east in Cashiers, NC, the historic High Hampton Resort provides luxury with a side of golf on fairways redesigned by Tom Fazio. Surrounded by lakes and lush rhododendron groves, this revitalized course marries precision gameplay with postcard scenery.
The Smoky Mountain Country Club in Whittier, NC invites golfers to test their skills on tight, high-altitude fairways with commanding views of the Nantahala National Forest. After your round, nearby Bryson City offers cozy stays and access to outdoor adventures like rafting or scenic train rides.
Family-Friendly Golf Courses Smoky Mountains Families Will Love
Bringing the kids or traveling with beginners? The region offers plenty of laid-back experiences without sacrificing those signature views.
Laurel Valley Golf Course in Townsend, TN is a relaxed 9-hole layout ideal for quick play and new learners. Instructors offer approachable lessons, and the friendly clubhouse atmosphere includes what many say is one of the best post-round burgers in town.
For fun-focused alternatives, Crave Golf Club in Pigeon Forge delivers bright, candy-themed indoor and outdoor mini-golf perfect for younger children. Nearby attractions like Toy Box Mini Golf and Hillbilly Golf in Gatlinburg add playful, local flair to every family outing.
Outside the game, mix in activities like hiking in Sugarlands, rafting the Pigeon River, or visiting the Appalachian Bear Rescue in Townsend to deepen the whole family’s Smoky Mountain experience.
Hidden Gem Golf Courses Smoky Mountains Locals Frequent
Looking to tee off beyond the tourist track? Some of the most memorable golf courses Smoky Mountains locals recommend are also the least crowded.
Bent Creek Golf Course, located near Gatlinburg, is a compact 18-hole course designed by Gary Player. While short, it’s technically demanding, with narrow fairways weaving along streams and wooded borders. Regulars appreciate its no-fuss nature and scenic setting.
In Bryson City, NC, the cozy 9-hole Smoky Mountain Golf Course offers an ultra-casual vibe. You may spot local wildlife here as often as other players. With BYOB-friendly policies and a quiet pace of play, it’s a hidden treasure for golfers seeking nature and solitude.
Another under-the-radar spot is Bogey Creek Golf Club in Cosby, TN. Modest but welcoming, it’s run by friendly locals who’ll make you feel right at home. Especially popular with RV guests and campers, this intimate course offers affordable green fees and camaraderie on and off the fairways.
Plan Your Visit to the Golf Courses Smoky Mountains Offer
Before you head toward the green, a few local tips can help make your Smoky Mountain golf adventure smooth and memorable. Ideal seasons run from late spring to early fall, when elevated courses stay cool and autumn trees explode with color. Early tee times often deliver peaceful play and soft morning light, while late afternoons provide stunning mountain sunsets.
- Dress Code: Most courses require collared shirts and golf shoes. Always confirm in advance.
- Tee Times: Book 1–2 weeks early for summer or fall play. Midweek times are more available and often cost less.
- Rentals: Nearly all courses rent clubs, usually for $25–$50 per set—book ahead if you need them.
- Altitude Effects: Expect shots to go farther. Warm up to check your distances before choosing clubs.
- Wildlife: Bears and wild turkeys occasionally share the terrain. Store snacks properly, and remain respectful.
Make time to explore nearby towns like Waynesville or Highlands for local dining, Appalachian crafts, and music. And don’t skip the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers hundreds of hiking trails and incredible biodiversity.
Elevate Your Game in the Smoky Mountains
There’s something unforgettable about navigating a fairway framed by mountain peaks, bathed in fresh air, and serenaded by birdsong. Whether you’re a devoted golfer or just casually exploring the sport, the golf courses Smoky Mountains spotlight offer some of the most scenic and satisfying play in the Southeast. Pack your clubs, plan your tee times, and prepare to fall in love with America’s most picturesque mountain golf experience.
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