The five best golf courses in Saskatchewan

The history of golf in Saskatchewan is a story of passion and community, reflecting the province’s embrace of outdoor activities and the social bonds they foster. Golf’s roots in Saskatchewan date back to the early 20th century, a time when the province was experiencing rapid growth and development. It was during this period that local enthusiasts and sportsmen began to organize informal rounds of golf, laying the groundwork for what would become a widespread and beloved activity across the province.

In the beginning, Saskatchewan’s golf courses were simple affairs, often just a few holes carved out of the natural prairie landscape. These early courses were developed through community efforts, with local residents coming together to create spaces where they could enjoy the game. This communal spirit is a hallmark of golf’s early days in Saskatchewan, illustrating the sport’s role in bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging.

As the province grew, so did its golfing infrastructure. The first official golf clubs in Saskatchewan were established in the 1900s, marking the formal inception of the sport within the province. These clubs were not just about golf; they served as social hubs, places where people from various backgrounds could meet, share experiences, and build friendships. This era saw the construction of more sophisticated courses, with better design and maintenance, reflecting the growing popularity and maturation of golf in Saskatchewan.

Throughout the mid-20th century, golf continued to flourish in Saskatchewan, with the development of numerous courses across the province. These ranged from modest community-run facilities to more elaborate clubs that attracted serious golfers. The design of these courses took advantage of Saskatchewan’s unique natural features, from its rolling prairies to the picturesque valleys, creating a diverse array of golfing experiences.

In more recent years, Saskatchewan has seen a surge in the development of championship-level golf courses, designed by renowned architects. These modern courses have elevated the province’s golfing profile, offering challenging and scenic layouts that attract golfers from all over Canada and beyond. Despite this evolution, golf in Saskatchewan has retained its community-focused roots. The sport remains accessible to a wide audience, with a strong emphasis on youth development and family-friendly facilities.

Today, golf in Saskatchewan is a reflection of the province’s rich cultural tapestry and love for the great outdoors. It’s a sport that transcends age and skill level, offering something for everyone, from the casual player enjoying a summer afternoon with friends to the competitive golfer seeking to test their abilities against the province’s challenging courses. The history of golf in Saskatchewan is not just about the development of the game but about the creation of a community and the shared experiences that bind it together.

Saskatchewan, known for its vast prairies and stunning natural landscapes, offers a variety of golf courses that cater to players of all levels. Among these, several stand out for their exceptional design, breathtaking surroundings, and challenging gameplay. Here’s a detailed look at five of the province’s best golf courses, each offering a unique golfing experience reflective of Saskatchewan’s diverse beauty and golfing heritage.

Waskesiu Golf Course is a true gem nestled in the heart of Prince Albert National Park. Designed by the legendary Stanley Thompson in the 1930s, this course is a classic example of Thompson’s genius, blending natural beauty with strategic golf design. The course meanders through a rich boreal forest, offering scenic vistas at every turn. Its signature hole, the challenging par-3 6th, requires a precise tee shot over the water to a well-guarded green, embodying the thoughtful design that requires golfers to engage with the natural elements.

Dakota Dunes Golf Links presents a starkly different experience, situated on natural sand dune formations south of Saskatoon. Opened in 2004 and designed by Graham Cooke and Wayne Carleton, Dakota Dunes seamlessly integrates the indigenous prairie landscape into its design. The course offers wide fairways and undulating greens, challenging golfers to adapt to the whims of the wind and the subtle nuances of the terrain. The vast, open skies and rolling dunes provide a serene backdrop, making each round a peaceful escape as much as a physical challenge.

The Royal Regina Golf Club, one of the oldest clubs in the province, offers a rich history along with its challenging play. Established in 1899 and granted royal status by Queen Elizabeth II, this course has evolved over the years, undergoing redesigns that have sharpened its character. Its layout demands accuracy and strategic thinking, with mature trees lining the fairways and well-placed bunkers guarding the greens. The Royal Regina is more than just a golf course; it’s a walk through the history of golf in Saskatchewan, offering a blend of tradition and modern golfing challenge.

Riverside Country Club in Saskatoon is renowned for its picturesque setting along the South Saskatchewan River. The course, designed by Robert Bruce Harris and opened in 1912, offers a diverse layout with elevation changes, challenging greens, and strategic water hazards. Riverside’s meticulous upkeep and the natural beauty of its riverside location make it a favorite among local and visiting golfers alike. The course’s design utilizes the natural topography to enhance the strategic play, making it a test of both skill and ingenuity.

Elmwood Golf Club in Swift Current, with its challenging terrain and thoughtful design, offers a compelling blend of natural beauty and golfing challenge. Renovated and updated over the years to improve playability and sustainability, Elmwood presents narrow fairways, strategic bunkering, and varied hole designs that demand a full range of shots. The course’s integration with the surrounding natural environment, including native grasses and trees, enhances the experience, making each round a memorable encounter with Saskatchewan’s natural beauty.

These courses, with their distinctive designs and settings, embody the essence of golf in Saskatchewan. From the boreal forests of Waskesiu to the sand dunes of Dakota Dunes, and the historic fairways of The Royal Regina, golfers are treated to an array of experiences that celebrate the natural beauty and sporting spirit of the province.