Discover the best public golf courses in Cashiers, NC with our comprehensive ranking. Detailed reviews, pricing information, and insider tips for an exceptional golfing experience.
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Cashiers Public Golf Access: Top 5 Courses Ranked & Reviewed

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cashiers, North Carolina offers some of the most breathtaking golf experiences in the Southeast. While many associate the area with exclusive private clubs, there are several outstanding public-access options for golfers of all skill levels. As your local climate and community advocates, we know that outdoor recreation is an important part of enjoying our beautiful mountain environment. We’ve compiled this guide to help residents and visitors find the perfect course for their game while appreciating the natural beauty that makes our region special.

1. High Hampton Resort Golf Course

High Hampton’s recently redesigned course stands as the crown jewel of public golf in Cashiers. After an extensive renovation by renowned architects Tom Fazio and Thomas Fazio II, this historic course has been transformed into a modern masterpiece while preserving its connection to the surrounding landscape.

The course features bentgrass greens and fairways that remain in exceptional condition throughout the season. What truly sets High Hampton apart is how the design works with the natural environment – the layout navigates around mature hardwoods and offers stunning views of Rock Mountain and the resort’s namesake Hampton Lake.

Green fees range from $125-195 depending on the season. While this puts it at the higher end of public options, the course quality and experience justify the premium. Advance tee times are recommended, especially during peak summer and fall periods. Local tip: Ask for an early morning tee time to catch the magical mist rising off the mountains as you play the opening holes.

2. Sapphire National Golf Club

Sapphire National offers an accessible mountain golf experience with dramatic elevation changes and some of the area’s most spectacular views. The Ron Garl design makes excellent use of the natural topography, creating memorable holes like the signature par-3 8th where players tee off from an elevated position to a green surrounded by native plantings and boulders.

The course features generous fairways but challenges players with strategic bunkering and multi-tiered greens. The maintenance team deserves special recognition for keeping the course in excellent shape despite the challenges of mountain terrain and weather.

Green fees range from $85-145, with twilight and shoulder-season rates offering particularly good value. The clubhouse is understated but comfortable, with a friendly staff that embodies mountain hospitality. Local tip: The back nine plays significantly different from the front, with more elevation changes, so pace yourself accordingly.

3. Sequoyah National Golf Club

Though technically located in nearby Cherokee (about 35 minutes from Cashiers), Sequoyah National deserves inclusion for its exceptional quality and accessibility. This Robert Trent Jones II design offers a different experience from other mountain courses, with wider corridors and more forgiving terrain while still providing stunning long-range views of the Great Smoky Mountains.

The course is owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and incorporates subtle elements of Cherokee culture and history throughout the property. The turf conditions are consistently excellent, particularly the smooth, true-rolling greens.

Green fees range from $75-125, making it one of the best values in the region for the quality offered. The practice facilities are comprehensive, and the clubhouse features a well-stocked pro shop and casual dining options. Local tip: The closing stretch of holes 15-18 is particularly challenging – save some energy and focus for the finish.

4. Smoky Mountain Country Club

Located just outside Whittier, about 30 minutes from Cashiers, this semi-private club offers public access to a scenic and challenging layout. The course winds through mountain valleys with streams coming into play on several holes, creating both strategic challenges and serene ambiance.

While not as polished as some higher-priced options, Smoky Mountain offers solid conditions and a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere. The design requires thoughtful shot-making rather than overwhelming length, making it enjoyable for a range of skill levels.

Green fees range from $59-95, representing excellent value, especially during weekday and non-peak periods. The staff is known for their welcoming approach to public players. Local tip: The par-5 7th hole offers a risk-reward opportunity that can make or break your round – play it according to your confidence level that day.

5. Franklin Golf Course

Rounding out our list is this municipal gem located about 40 minutes from Cashiers. While it lacks the dramatic mountain features of other courses on this list, Franklin Golf Course offers a pleasant, walkable layout with surprising quality for its modest price point.

The course is characterized by mature trees, gentle elevation changes, and well-maintained greens. What it lacks in flash, it makes up for with solid fundamentals and a welcoming atmosphere for golfers of all abilities.

Green fees range from $30-55, making it the most budget-friendly option in the area. Walking is permitted all day, adding to its accessibility. The simple clubhouse offers basic amenities and surprisingly good food at the grill. Local tip: This is a perfect course for families or for playing a casual second round in the afternoon after testing yourself at one of the more challenging courses in the morning.

Plan Your Perfect Golf Day in Cashiers

The Cashiers area offers diverse public golf options that showcase our beautiful mountain environment while providing quality playing experiences. Whether you’re looking for a premium resort experience or a casual round at a friendly price point, you’ll find courses that let you enjoy the game while connecting with the natural beauty that makes our community special.

Remember that mountain weather can change quickly – it’s always a good idea to check forecasts and call ahead for course conditions, especially in spring and fall. Most courses offer online booking, though some still prefer phone reservations for public tee times.

As you enjoy these courses, take a moment to appreciate how they’ve been designed to work with rather than against the natural environment. Many incorporate sustainable practices in their maintenance programs, helping protect the water quality and natural resources that make our community special.

Take Action

Ready to experience the best golf Cashiers has to offer? Contact any of these courses directly to book your tee time. And while you’re enjoying our beautiful outdoors, consider joining our Burlingame Citizens’ Climate Lobby and Waterfront Neighborhood Coalition to help protect these natural spaces for future generations of golfers and outdoor enthusiasts. Together, we can ensure our community remains a beautiful place to live, visit, and yes – play outstanding golf.