Alaska, often known for its breathtaking landscapes and rugged terrain, also offers golf enthusiasts a unique opportunity to tee off under the midnight sun. The golf courses in Alaska, while few in number, are praised for their picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and diverse experiences. With a short but intense playing season, golfers can make the most of the long summer days and delight in the unparalleled beauty that only Alaska can offer.
The state hosts a variety of golf courses ranging from highly ranked establishments to underrated gems. Some of the best golf courses in Alaska include Chena Bend in Fort Wainwright, Moose Run Creek in Anchorage, and Palmer Golf Course in Palmer. Most courses also offer public access, allowing both locals and visitors alike to experience the unique fusion of golf and nature. Golf courses in Alaska are rated highly by golf aficionados, solidifying the state as a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts in search of a one-of-a-kind experience.
Key Takeaways
- Alaska offers picturesque golf courses with breathtaking views and unique experiences.
- Some top golf courses in Alaska include Chena Bend, Moose Run Creek, and Palmer Golf Course.
- The golf courses in Alaska feature good accessibility and high ratings, attracting both locals and travelers.
Overview of Golf in Alaska
Alaska offers a unique golfing experience due to its picturesque landscapes and long summer days. The golf playing season in this state may be short, but it provides avid golfers with a chance to tee off under the midnight sun. With several good golf courses located around the state, players can enjoy stunning views of mountains, forests, and glaciers while playing their favorite sport.
Some of the best golf courses in Alaska include Chena Bend in Fort Wainwright, Moose Run – Creek in Anchorage, and Palmer Golf Course in Palmer. Chena Bend, in particular, is highly regarded and has received top ratings from prestigious golf publications like GOLF Magazine. Moose Run, on the other hand, is home to the northernmost 36-hole facility in America and offers two distinct courses – the Creek course ranked number one in Alaska and the Hill course, which is also for all skill levels. Palmer Golf Course is popular for its scenic backdrop of mountains and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
In addition to these top-rated golf courses, Alaska has an extensive list of public and private courses spread across the state. Notable golf courses include the Anchorage Golf Course in Anchorage, Fireweed Meadows Golf Course in Anchor Point, Fairbanks Golf & Country Club in Fairbanks, North Star Golf Club in Fairbanks, Moose Run Golf Course – Creek Course in Fort Richardson, Chena Bend Golf Course in Fort Wainwright, and Mount Fairweather Golf Course in Gustavus.
Golfers should note that weather conditions in Alaska can be unpredictable. Therefore, it is essential to check the current conditions and dress appropriately for the game. Layering up clothing and having waterproof gear on hand is advisable. Additionally, players should also be prepared for occasional wildlife encounters on courses, as it is not uncommon to spot moose, bears, and other native Alaskan wildlife during a round of golf.
The Best Golf Courses in Alaska
Alaska has a range of beautiful golf courses that offer incredible scenic views to their players. In this section, we will discuss some of the top golf courses in the state, including Anchorage Golf Course, Palmer Golf Course, Moose Run Golf Course, Chena Bend, and Soldotna.
Anchorage Golf Course
Anchorage Golf Course is a well-regarded course in Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage. The facility offers stunning views of the surrounding Chugach Mountains and the beautiful Anchorage skyline. With a 4-star ranking in some reviews, this course is known for its challenging layout and well-maintained greens. In addition, wildlife sightings are a common occurrence, adding to the unique Alaskan golfing experience.
Palmer Golf Course
Palmer Golf Course is located in the picturesque town of Palmer, Alaska. Known for its impressive scenery, including views of Pioneer Peak, the course provides players with an enjoyable yet challenging experience. The course winds through beautiful forests, providing a serene atmosphere for golfers. Palmer Golf Course is often praised for its well-manicured greens and welcoming staff.
Moose Run Golf Course
Situated in Anchorage, Moose Run Golf Course consists of two different courses, the Creek and the Hill. The Creek course stands out as a top-ranked course in Alaska, according to Golf Digest. Additionally, the Hill course offers a more forgiving layout, suitable for golfers of all skill levels. Moose Run is part of America’s northernmost 36-hole facility, making it a unique destination for golf enthusiasts.
Chena Bend
Chena Bend, located in Fort Wainwright, Alaska, is widely regarded as one of the state’s best golf courses. Ranking at the top in GOLF Magazine’s course ratings for Alaska, Chena Bend offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience to players. Boasting an impressive course layout and beautiful scenery, this course is a must-visit destination for golfers in Alaska.
Settlers Bay Golf Course, Wasilla
With its wide fairways and large, undulating greens, Settlers Bay is a pleasure to play for all golfers. The course has a beautiful backdrop of mountains, adding to the enjoyment of the game.
North Star Golf Club, Fairbanks
Billing itself as the northernmost golf course in America, North Star is not only about the golf but also the unique Alaskan experience. The course offers a “wildlife scorecard,” tracking your encounters with the local fauna.
Soldotna
Soldotna is home to multiple golf courses that provide a variety of options for players. These courses are well-known for their beautiful surroundings and the opportunity to enjoy the Alaskan wildlife. While not as highly ranked as some of the other courses in this list, Soldotna’s courses offer a unique and enjoyable golfing experience in Alaska.
Bear Valley Golf Course
Bear Valley Golf Course, nestled in the scenic landscape of Alaska, is one of the hidden gems among golf courses in the state. This picturesque course offers golfers a unique and challenging experience as they navigate through lush greens and stunning mountain views.
The course features 9 holes which, though shorter than standard 18-hole courses, provides an enjoyable and testing round for all skill levels. Golfers visiting Bear Valley Golf Course can expect well-maintained greens, friendly service, and a serene environment that showcases the natural beauty of Alaska.
Homer Golf Course
Homer Golf Course is an excellent option for golfers looking for a casual yet enjoyable round in a stunning setting. Located in the beautiful town of Homer, the golf course is surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes, allowing players to immerse themselves in the Alaskan wilderness while refining their golf skills.
The 9-hole course, known for its charming and unconventional design, provides a good mix of challenging and forgiving holes suitable for a wide range of skill levels. With well-maintained fairways and greens, Homer Golf Course focuses on delivering a memorable golfing experience that keeps visitors coming back for more.
Kenai Golf Course, Kenai
This course stands out for its beautiful forest setting. Its tree-lined fairways make accuracy a premium, and it offers a quiet, peaceful golfing experience.
Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, Palmer
Known for its panoramic mountain views and impeccably maintained fairways and greens, this course offers a perfect blend of challenge and beauty.
Eagleglen Golf Course, Elmendorf Air Force Base
This golf course is noted for its excellent layout, with a good mix of challenging holes. It offers stunning views of the nearby mountains and wildlife encounters, creating a memorable golfing experience.
Public Access and Ratings of Alaska Golf courses
Alaska offers a variety of golf courses with public access, where enthusiasts can enjoy the game amidst the state’s picturesque landscapes. These courses provide quality facilities, exceptional service, and unique environments for golfers of all skill levels. The ratings and reviews of these courses serve as a testament to their quality.
One of the best public-access courses in Alaska is the Creek Course at Moose Run Golf. Situated in Anchorage, this 36-hole facility holds the distinction of being America’s northernmost golf course. The Creek course is renowned for its challenging layout and consistently ranks as the top golf course in Alaska.
Another top-rated public golf course in the state is Chena Bend, located in Fort Wainwright. This course is known for its pristine condition, demanding greens, and picturesque setting. Golfers can book a tee time at Chena Bend for a memorable golfing experience.
Palmer Golf Course in Palmer is another notable public-access course in Alaska. Players appreciate its beautiful terrain and well-maintained grounds. The course offers a challenge for golfers of varying abilities and presents an enjoyable round in a stunning environment.
These public golf courses in Alaska have received high ratings and reviews from both locals and visitors alike. The following list highlights some of the top-rated public golf courses in Alaska, in no particular order:
- Creek Course at Moose Run Golf (Anchorage)
- Chena Bend (Fort Wainwright)
- Palmer Golf Course (Palmer)
Golfers visiting Alaska can explore these top-rated public golf courses and enjoy a memorable golfing experience in the state. With beautiful landscapes and quality facilities, Alaska’s public golf courses are perfect for those looking to experience the game in a unique setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plan a golf trip in Alaska?
The best time to plan a golf trip in Alaska is generally between May and September. This is when the state experiences warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, allowing for more comfortable playing conditions. Golf courses in Alaska usually operate within this timeframe, providing players with a unique opportunity to experience golfing in an incredible natural setting.
Is it possible to play golf at midnight during Alaska’s summer?
Yes, it is possible to play golf at midnight during Alaska’s summer, thanks to a natural event called the midnight sun. Golf courses in Anchorage, for example, have tee times ranging from 5 a.m. to nearly midnight to accommodate the extended daylight during the summer months. This extraordinary phenomenon gives golfers the unparalleled experience of playing a round of golf under the glow of the midnight sun.
How many golf courses does Alaska have?
Alaska has a total of 21 golf courses, ranking 50th in the United States for the number of courses available. Although the state has a relatively small number of courses, they offer unique experiences with breathtaking views and varied terrain. Some of the notable golf courses in Alaska include Settlers Bay in Wasilla, Chena Bend in Fairbanks, and Moose Run (Creek and Hill courses) in Anchorage.