The five best golf courses in Alberta

The history of golf in Alberta is a captivating narrative that mirrors the province’s own development and its residents’ growing affinity for outdoor recreation and sport. Alberta’s golf story begins in the early 20th century, a period marked by community building and the establishment of recreational facilities. As towns and cities across the province grew, so too did the interest in golf, leading to the creation of golf clubs and courses that would lay the foundation for the sport’s enduring presence in the region.

In the initial phases, golf courses in Alberta were rudimentary, often crafted out of the natural landscape with little more than local enthusiasm and basic design principles. These early courses were community projects, reflecting a grassroots love for the game and a desire to create communal spaces for leisure and sport. As the province prospered, these humble beginnings gave way to more sophisticated designs and facilities, attracting renowned architects to leave their mark on Alberta’s landscapes.

The influence of legendary designers like Stanley Thompson, known for his work on courses such as the Banff Springs Golf Course, cannot be overstated. Thompson’s ability to weave the natural beauty of Alberta’s mountains and valleys into his designs elevated the golfing experience, turning it into a celebration of both sport and scenery. His work, and that of others who followed, helped to establish Alberta as a premier golfing destination, characterized by courses that are as challenging as they are beautiful.

As the 20th century progressed, golf in Alberta continued to evolve, with the opening of numerous courses across the province. These ranged from exclusive private clubs to accessible public courses, ensuring that golf could be enjoyed by a wide spectrum of the population. This democratization of golf reflected broader societal changes, including increased leisure time and the growing accessibility of sport to people from all walks of life.

In recent decades, Alberta has seen a surge in the development of world-class golf resorts and championship courses, further cementing its reputation as a golfing destination. These modern facilities not only cater to the serious golfer looking for a challenge but also offer a range of experiences for families, casual players, and tourists seeking to enjoy Alberta’s natural beauty.

Today, golf in Alberta is a reflection of the province’s diverse cultural and natural landscape, offering something for everyone. From the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountain courses to the serene prairie links, golf in Alberta continues to be a beloved pastime, drawing players from around the world to its greens and fairways. The history of golf in Alberta is not just a story of sport but also a narrative of community, landscape, and the enduring appeal of chasing a small white ball across some of the most stunning scenery on offer.

Alberta is home to some of Canada’s most scenic and challenging golf courses, thanks to its diverse landscapes that range from the dramatic Rocky Mountains to the rolling prairies. The following courses are frequently celebrated for their design, natural beauty, and the overall golfing experience they provide.

Banff Springs Golf Course stands as a jewel in the crown of Canadian golf courses, with a history and setting that are both majestic. Designed by the renowned Stanley Thompson in 1928, this course is nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offering golfers not just a game but an adventure through nature. The course layout is a masterful blend of challenging golf and natural beauty, featuring dramatic elevation changes, lush fairways, and stunning vistas that include the famed Bow Falls and Sulphur Mountain. The Banff Springs Golf Course is often described as playing in a nature documentary, where every hole offers a view more breathtaking than the last.

Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course is another Thompson masterpiece, which many consider to be his best work. Opened in 1925, this course is less a constructed landscape and more an act of revealing the natural beauty of Jasper National Park. The course meanders through mountain meadows and past serene lakes, with each hole framed by the rugged peaks of the Rockies. The layout demands strategic thinking, courtesy of its clever bunkering and varied greens. Golfing at Jasper Park Lodge is an immersive experience, blending the sport with the tranquility and beauty of its mountain setting.

Stewart Creek Golf & Country Club, located in Canmore, is a testament to modern golf course design that honors its natural setting. Opened in the early 2000s and designed by Gary Browning, the course pays homage to Canmore’s coal mining heritage, with several historical remnants integrated into the landscape. The course itself offers a blend of challenge and beauty, featuring wide fairways that navigate through pine forests and over natural water bodies. The surrounding mountains not only provide a stunning backdrop but also influence play, adding an extra layer of strategy to each shot.

Heritage Pointe Golf Club, just south of Calgary, offers a premier golfing experience with a layout that showcases the natural beauty and topographical variations of the Alberta prairie landscape. Designed by Ron Garl and opened in the 1990s, Heritage Pointe is known for its meticulous maintenance, strategic hole designs, and the integration of water on 14 of the 18 holes. The course offers a variety of tee boxes catering to all skill levels, making it both accessible and challenging. With its combination of natural beauty, strategic play, and excellent facilities, Heritage Pointe stands out as a must-play course in Alberta.

Northern Bear Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course located near Edmonton, is Alberta’s testament to world-class golf course design. Opened in 2002, this course brings the “Golden Bear’s” hallmark of excellence to the Alberta golf scene. Known for its strategic layout that incorporates natural features like wetlands, forests, and sand traps, Northern Bear challenges golfers to use every club in their bag. The course’s fairways and greens are kept in pristine condition, and the peaceful, natural setting allows golfers to escape into the game.

These courses exemplify the best of Alberta’s golf offerings, providing not only challenging play but also unforgettable experiences that highlight the natural beauty and diversity of the province’s landscapes. Whether you’re navigating the mountainous terrain of the Rockies or the open vistas of the prairies, golfing in Alberta is an experience that resonates with the beauty and spirit of the land.