Every time I putt on a green in the Canadian Rockies, my shots all have one thing in common: a break towards the valley. All around Banff, golf abounds during the short five-month season. In the colder months, Canadians can’t imagine walking up and down a grassy runway, which is why I figure they love hockey.
Between May and October, Alberta’s Rocky Mountains make a spectacular backdrop for driving balls into the rugged horizon. From Banff to Canmore to Kananaskis, golfers can find numerous courses on all levels. Here’s a few courses that have met the Mountain Man’s criteria.
Silvertip golf resort is located in Canmore in the majestic Bow Valley at the entrance to Banff National Park. The course is considered one of the area’s premier 18-hole course. Green fees are over $100.
On the flanks of Mount Lady MacDonald, the par-72 course has 600 feet of elevation change and mind-boggling championship tees with a slope rating of 153. It’s a course that allows both scratch golfers and recreational players to enjoy the course and hone their skills.
Stewart Creek Golf Club: 18-hole up to 7200 yards with spectacular panoramas dominated by the Three Sisters Mountain. Green fees with cart: $125-$195.
Kananaskis Country Golf Course: 36-hole course with water on 20 holes and 142 sand traps. The course is situated in the Kananaskis Valley below 10,000ft peaks Mount Lorette and Mount Kidd. Green fees: $70-$90.