Championship Course Overview

When legendary course architect Tom Jackson first surveyed the property in the early 1980s, he recognized the perfect canvas for a mountain golf masterpiece. Respecting the natural contours and features of the land, Jackson created a course that feels as though it was discovered rather than built.

The front nine opened in 1983, with the back nine following in 1985. Since then, the course has matured beautifully, with towering trees framing fairways and the Horse Pasture River creating both strategic challenges and scenic beauty throughout the layout.

Set at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 3,500 feet, the course offers cool summer playing conditions and spectacular seasonal changes. The championship layout stretches to just over 6,800 yards from the back tees but offers multiple tee options to accommodate golfers of all skill levels.

What makes Burlingame truly special is how the course balances challenge with playability. Strategic thinking is rewarded, but the course never feels unfair or punitive. Natural elevation changes create memorable approach shots, while greens offer subtle breaks that keep even the most experienced players engaged.

Hole-by-Hole Tour

Front Nine: Setting the Stage

The opening holes at Burlingame ease players into their round while showcasing the property’s natural beauty. The first hole, a gentle par 4, allows players to settle any first-tee jitters before the challenges gradually build.

The front nine features a wonderful mix of holes that demand different skills. The par-3 third requires precision with a mid-iron over water, while the par-5 fifth offers risk-reward options for those brave enough to challenge the dogleg.

Perhaps the signature hole on the front side is the par-4 seventh, where the Horse Pasture River runs along the entire right side. The green is nestled against the water, creating one of the most visually stunning approaches on the course.

Back Nine: Drama Builds

The back nine at Burlingame showcases more dramatic elevation changes and some of the property’s most spectacular views. The par-4 tenth climbs uphill to a well-protected green, while the par-3 twelfth plays downhill to a green surrounded by native areas.

As players make the turn toward home, the challenge intensifies. The par-4 fifteenth requires a precise tee shot to a landing area that can’t be seen from the tee, while the par-3 sixteenth demands a confident swing over a deep ravine.

The closing holes provide a fitting finale to the round. The par-5 seventeenth offers a genuine opportunity for birdie before players face the spectacular par-4 eighteenth. With its elevated tee shot and approach to a green framed perfectly by the mountains beyond, the closing hole captures everything special about golf at Burlingame.

Premium Practice Facilities

Burlingame’s commitment to the complete golf experience extends well beyond the 18-hole course. The comprehensive practice facilities reflect the club’s dedication to helping members improve their game in a beautiful setting.

The driving range features multiple hitting stations on a spacious natural grass teeing area. Target greens at various distances help players dial in their yardages, while the expansive landing area accommodates even the longest hitters.

Short game improvement is emphasized with dedicated pitching and chipping areas that replicate on-course conditions. The short game complex includes bunkers of varying depths and grass types that match what players will encounter during their round.

Perhaps the crown jewel of the practice facilities is the putting green complex. Maintained to the same exacting standards as the course greens, the practice putting surfaces offer genuine feedback on speed and break. Many members make a habit of spending time here before their round, getting a feel for the day’s green conditions.

The practice facilities are positioned to capture stunning mountain views, making even a practice session feel special. Many members comment that improvement comes more naturally when practicing in such inspiring surroundings.

Golf Technology & Instruction

While Burlingame honors golf traditions, the club embraces modern technology to enhance the playing and learning experience. The professional staff utilizes cutting-edge tools to help members understand and improve their game.

Launch monitors like TrackMan provide detailed data on ball flight, club delivery, and impact conditions. This technology allows instructors to identify specific areas for improvement and track progress over time. Many members find that seeing the numbers behind their swing helps them understand instructor feedback more clearly.

Video analysis systems capture swings from multiple angles, allowing for detailed review with professional staff. The combination of high-speed video and launch monitor data creates a comprehensive picture of each golfer’s technique.

Instruction programs at Burlingame are designed to meet the needs of all players. From beginners just starting their golf journey to single-digit handicappers looking to refine specific aspects of their game, the professional staff creates personalized improvement plans.

Group clinics offer a social learning environment that many members enjoy, while private lessons provide the focused attention some skills require. The teaching philosophy at Burlingame emphasizes enjoyment alongside improvement—helping members play better while loving the game more.

Course Conditions & Environmental Stewardship

The exceptional playing conditions at Burlingame result from both natural advantages and meticulous care. The mountain elevation creates ideal growing conditions for cool-season grasses, while the dedicated maintenance team ensures consistent excellence throughout the property.

Fairways feature bent grass that provides ideal lies and vibrant color. The rough is maintained at a challenging but fair height, penalizing errant shots without making recovery impossible. Bunkers contain premium sand that ensures consistent playing conditions, and greens roll true with subtle breaks that reward careful reading.

Seasonal changes create different playing experiences throughout the year. Spring brings lush conditions and blooming native areas, while summer offers perfect temperatures for all-day play. Fall transforms the course with spectacular foliage colors, creating some of the most photographed rounds of the year.

Environmental stewardship guides all maintenance practices at Burlingame. The course is certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, recognizing its commitment to environmental quality. Water conservation, reduced chemical use, and wildlife habitat protection are integral to the maintenance philosophy.

The Horse Pasture River that winds through the property receives special protection, with buffer zones and careful management practices ensuring this natural treasure remains pristine. Many members appreciate how the course exists in harmony with the natural environment rather than imposing upon it.

Pro Shop & Equipment Services

The Burlingame pro shop offers more than just logoed merchandise—it’s a complete golf resource center staffed by knowledgeable professionals. Whether you need equipment advice, want to schedule a lesson, or simply need to replace a glove, the team provides attentive service.

Equipment services include comprehensive club fitting using the same launch monitor technology employed for instruction. This data-driven approach ensures that members play with equipment optimized for their specific swing characteristics and performance goals.

The shop stocks carefully selected merchandise from premium brands, with a focus on items suited to mountain golf conditions. Seasonal buying trips ensure the merchandise mix stays fresh and current with industry trends.

Repair services keep members’ equipment in top condition, with quick turnaround times for re-gripping, loft and lie adjustments, and other maintenance needs. For those wanting to try before they buy, premium rental sets featuring current-year equipment are available.

Beyond equipment, the pro shop serves as the social hub of the golf operation. Tournament registrations, tee time management, and friendly conversation make it a regular stop for members enjoying their day at the club.

Professional Golf Staff

The heart of Burlingame’s golf program is its professional staff—a team of PGA professionals who combine technical expertise with a genuine love for sharing the game. Their approach embodies the club’s welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere while delivering high-level golf knowledge.

The Director of Golf oversees all aspects of the golf operation, ensuring consistent excellence across instruction, merchandising, and tournament operations. With experience at prestigious clubs across the country, the director brings a wealth of knowledge while maintaining Burlingame’s distinctive approach to the game.

The Head Professional specializes in instruction, developing teaching programs that help members of all skill levels improve while enjoying the process. Certification in specialized teaching methods allows for a personalized approach to each member’s needs.

Assistant Professionals round out the team, each bringing specific strengths that enhance the overall program. From tournament operations to junior golf development, these professionals ensure that every aspect of the golf experience receives dedicated attention.

What distinguishes the Burlingame professional staff is their accessibility and genuine interest in members’ golf journeys. You’ll often find them on the practice tee offering a quick tip, or in the bar area listening to stories from the day’s rounds—creating the warm community feeling that makes Burlingame special.

Experience the magic of Burlingame Country Club’s mountain golf course – from Tom Jackson’s masterful design to breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain views and challenging play.

Golf FAQ & Planning Your Visit

When is the best time of year to play at Burlingame?

Each season offers something special at Burlingame. Summer provides perfect temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lower elevations. Fall delivers spectacular foliage colors, particularly in October. Spring brings lush conditions and flowering native areas. The course is typically open from April through November, with exact dates dependent on weather conditions.

How can I improve my score on the challenging mountain holes?

Mountain golf requires adjustments to your normal game. Uphill shots play longer than the measured yardage, while downhill shots play shorter. The ball also flies farther at elevation due to less air density. Our professional staff recommends adding about 5-7% distance at our 3,000-foot elevation. For putting, remember that most breaks tend toward the valley, even when they’re difficult to see.

What tournaments and events does Burlingame host throughout the season?

The golf calendar includes a mix of competitive and social events. Major tournaments include the Club Championship, Member-Guest, and several seasonal member events. More casual formats include weekly men’s and women’s days, couples events, and nine-and-dine evenings. The professional staff works to ensure there’s something for everyone, regardless of competitive spirit or skill level.

How does the tee time system work?

Members can reserve tee times up to seven days in advance through the online booking system or by calling the pro shop. During peak times (typically weekend mornings), a lottery system ensures fair access. The course also offers several member-only times each week when no advance reservation is needed—just show up and join the next group going out.

Are golf lessons available for all skill levels?

Absolutely. The professional staff works with everyone from beginners to accomplished players. Instruction formats include private lessons, small group sessions, clinics focused on specific skills, and on-course playing lessons. The teaching philosophy emphasizes making lasting improvements while keeping the learning process enjoyable.