Vail’s world-class golf courses blend seamlessly with the valley’s rushing creeks, pine and aspen forests and Rocky Mountain peaks. Whether you’re conquering a challenging fairway or just enjoying a relaxed round, you’re in for some scenic swings. Schedule your tee time at one of these Vail golf clubs, all a quick jaunt from the villages.

Championship Greens in the Heart of the Rockies

Discover the Best Golf Courses in Vail, CO

Vail, Colorado is not only a premier winter destination—it’s also a hidden gem for golfers seeking pristine fairways set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. From meticulously designed courses to high-elevation challenges that improve your drive distance, Vail’s golf scene delivers a world-class experience. Here’s everything you need to know about golfing in Vail.

Vail Golf Club: Elevated Play on a Championship Course

Nestled at the base of the Gore Range, Vail Golf Club offers a par-71 championship course at an elevation of 8,200 feet. Golfers enjoy longer drives thanks to the thinner mountain air and cooler summer temperatures, making for an unforgettable experience.

Highlights:

• Course Architect: Ben Krueger

• Yardage: 6,766 yards from championship tees

• Elevation: 8,200 feet

• Signature Hole: Hole 14, a downhill par 3 with sweeping views of the Gore Range

• Clubhouse: Includes a full-service pro shop, modern locker rooms, and Grill on the Gore restaurant

Red Sky Golf Club: Two Premier Courses by Design Legends

Located 20 minutes west of Vail in Wolcott, Red Sky Golf Club is a private club that offers limited public access through resort partnerships. It features two distinct championship courses:

Norman Course

• Designed by Greg Norman

• Wide fairways and challenging bunkers

• Set against dramatic mountain ridgelines

• Known for Hole 6: a par-3 over a ravine

Fazio Course

• Designed by Tom Fazio

• Smoother, more flowing layout

• Panoramic vistas from nearly every hole

• Features a par-5 18th that finishes dramatically near the clubhouse

Public Access: Guests of partner resorts such as The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch and Park Hyatt Beaver Creek receive tee time privileges.

EagleVail Golf Club: Scenic & Strategic Mountain Golf

Just minutes from Vail, the EagleVail Golf Club presents an affordable yet stunning alternative. Its unique mix of challenging holes, tree-lined fairways, and elevation changes make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Quick Facts:

• Course Layout: 18-hole championship and 9-hole short course

• Standout Hole: Hole 10, a downhill par 5 with mountain views

• Practice Facilities: Driving range, putting green, and chipping area

• Family-Friendly: Ideal for beginners and juniors

Golfing at Altitude: The Advantages of Mountain Air

Golf in Vail offers a unique twist—elevation boosts your drive by up to 10%. Expect to see added distance on your shots, but don’t forget to adjust your club selections accordingly. The thin air affects ball trajectory and spin, rewarding precision and course management.

Benefits of High-Altitude Golf:

• Longer drives

• Cooler summer temperatures

• Fewer insects

• Less humidity for better grip

Best Times to Golf in Vail

The golf season in Vail typically runs from mid-May through early October, with peak conditions in June through September. During this window, the courses are lush, green, and in optimal condition.

Tee Time Tip: Book early in the day for cooler temps and faster greens. Twilight rates are available at many courses for budget-conscious travelers.

Golf Lessons and Clinics in Vail

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player looking to fine-tune your swing, Vail offers excellent instruction options.

Top Instruction Programs:

• Vail Golf Club Academy – Offers private lessons, group clinics, and junior programs.

• Red Sky Golf Academy – High-end coaching with video swing analysis and on-course instruction.

• EagleVail Golf Club – Accessible programs with PGA-certified instructors.

Golf Equipment Rentals & Pro Shops

Don’t want to travel with clubs? All major courses in Vail offer premium rental equipment, including Titleist, Callaway, and TaylorMade sets.

What to Expect:

• Custom-fitted clubs

• Premium golf carts with GPS

• Full-service pro shops with branded apparel and accessories

Après Golf in Vail: Where to Eat, Drink & Unwind

After your round, indulge in gourmet dining, spa relaxation, or mountain exploration. Vail’s après-golf scene is as refined as its fairways.

Top Spots for Post-Round Relaxation:

• Grill on the Gore – Overlooks the course at Vail Golf Club

• Matsuhisa Vail – Upscale sushi and sake

• Bully Ranch – Laid-back burgers and beers in town

• Spas at Sonnenalp or Four Seasons – Post-golf massages and wellness treatments

Golf Events and Tournaments in Vail

Each season, Vail hosts a variety of tournaments open to the public. From charity scrambles to competitive amateur series, there are events for all skill levels.

Notable Tournaments:

• Vail Golf Club Member-Guest Invitational

• EagleVail’s Big Cup Tournament

• Red Sky Guest-Am Championship

Course Comparison Table