Discover everything you need to know about golfing in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. This comprehensive guide covers course details, interactive maps, seasonal tips, and booking strategies for the perfect golf experience.
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Complete Guide to Highlands Ranch Golf Courses: Reviews, Rates & Booking Information
Highlands Ranch: Colorado’s Premier Golf Destination
Nestled against the spectacular backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Highlands Ranch has quietly become one of Colorado’s most appealing golf destinations. Just 12 miles south of Denver, this community offers the perfect blend of accessibility and escape, making it possible to tee off with mountain views without venturing far from the city.
What sets Highlands Ranch apart is its ability to offer diverse golfing experiences within a compact area. From championship layouts that challenge every aspect of your game to executive courses perfect for a quick round, the area caters to golfers of all skill levels and time constraints. The unique elevation and climate create ideal playing conditions through much of the year, with crystal-clear mountain air that can add distance to your drives.
Interactive Map & Course Locator
Finding your way to Highlands Ranch golf courses is simple with this comprehensive guide to local venues. Each course is easily accessible from major highways, with the community strategically positioned near C-470 and I-25 for convenient travel from throughout the Denver metro area.
University of Denver Golf Club at Highlands Ranch
Location: 9000 Creekside Way, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
Distance from downtown Denver: Approximately 15 miles (25-30 minute drive)
Key amenities: Championship course, practice facility, clubhouse with restaurant, pro shop
The Links Golf Course
Location: 5815 Gleneagles Village Pkwy, Highlands Ranch, CO 80130
Distance from downtown Denver: Approximately 14 miles (20-25 minute drive)
Key amenities: Executive par-62 course, practice green, clubhouse with snack bar, pro shop
Both courses offer ample parking facilities and are situated within minutes of shopping, dining, and accommodations, making them ideal for both dedicated golf outings and casual rounds during business or family trips to the Denver area.
University of Denver Golf Club at Highlands Ranch
The crown jewel of Highlands Ranch golf is undoubtedly the University of Denver Golf Club. This Hale Irwin-designed championship course presents a masterful blend of challenge and playability across its 7,150 yards from the back tees.
The course features meticulously maintained bentgrass greens that roll true and consistent, framed by bluegrass fairways that provide ideal playing surfaces. What truly distinguishes this course is its thoughtful layout, which Irwin designed to take full advantage of natural elevation changes and showcase dramatic Rocky Mountain views from multiple vantage points.
Strategic bunkering and water features come into play on several holes, most notably on the signature par-3 17th, where players must carry water to reach a well-guarded green with the mountains creating a stunning backdrop. The course’s varied tee boxes accommodate players of all abilities, though lower handicappers will appreciate the true test from the championship tees.
Current green fees range seasonally, with peak summer rates typically between $75-95 and twilight and shoulder season discounts available. The club maintains a public access policy while offering membership options that provide priority booking and additional amenities.
The Links Golf Course: Executive Play at Its Finest
For those seeking a more accessible or time-efficient round, The Links Golf Course delivers exceptional value in an executive format. Designed by respected architect Dick Phelps, this par-62 layout packs remarkable variety and challenge into its compact footprint.
Despite its shorter overall length, The Links demands precision and strategy rather than raw distance. The course features nine par-3 holes of varying lengths (ranging from 135 to 200+ yards) and nine par-4s that require thoughtful club selection off the tee. Notably absent are par-5s, making this an ideal venue for improving your mid-iron and short game.
What surprises many first-time visitors is the course’s impeccable conditioning. The Links maintains putting surfaces and fairways that rival those of much higher-priced venues, making it popular with serious players looking to sharpen specific aspects of their game.
Green fees typically range from $35-55 depending on season and time of day, with substantial discounts available for twilight play and frequent player programs. With a typical round taking just 3-3.5 hours, The Links perfectly suits busy professionals seeking quality golf within a manageable timeframe.
Seasonal Playing Guide & Weather Considerations
Understanding the seasonal patterns in Highlands Ranch can significantly enhance your golfing experience and help you secure the best values throughout the year.
Spring (March-May)
Early spring can be unpredictable in Highlands Ranch, with March still seeing occasional snow. However, by late April, conditions typically improve dramatically. This shoulder season offers excellent value, with green fees often 20-30% below peak summer rates. Morning frost delays become increasingly rare by May, when the courses begin showcasing their lush spring conditions. Temperatures generally range from 55-75°F during playing hours.
Summer (June-August)
Peak season brings Highlands Ranch golf courses to their visual and playing prime. Expect temperatures between 75-90°F, with typically low humidity making even warmer days comfortable. Summer afternoons often bring brief thunderstorms, making morning tee times generally more reliable. Weekend bookings during this period should be secured 7-14 days in advance, particularly for prime morning slots.
Fall (September-November)
Many locals consider fall the ideal golf season in Highlands Ranch. September and October deliver stable weather with temperatures ranging from 65-80°F, minimal precipitation, and spectacular foliage viewing on and around the courses. Courses typically remain in excellent condition through October, with November bringing variable conditions depending on the year’s first significant snowfall.
Winter (December-February)
Highlands Ranch’s relatively mild winter climate means golf remains possible on many days throughout winter. The area averages over 300 days of sunshine annually, and temperatures frequently reach the 50s even in January, allowing for comfortable winter rounds. Courses may operate with temporary winter greens after heavy snowfall, but quick melt-off often restores normal playing conditions within days of storms.
Comparative Analysis: Choosing Your Ideal Course
Selecting the right Highlands Ranch course depends on several factors including your skill level, available time, budget, and playing preferences. This side-by-side comparison helps identify which venue best suits your specific needs.
Course Specifications
University of Denver Golf Club:
– Length: 7,150 yards (championship tees); multiple tee options
– Par: 72
– Course Rating/Slope: 73.8/139 (championship tees)
– Greens: Bentgrass, medium-fast speed
– Fairways: Bluegrass, generous width
The Links Golf Course:
– Length: 4,380 yards
– Par: 62 (nine par-3s, nine par-4s)
– Course Rating/Slope: 61.9/101
– Greens: Bentgrass, medium speed
– Fairways: Bluegrass, strategic rather than lengthy
Difficulty Assessment
University of Denver Golf Club presents a comprehensive challenge requiring all clubs in your bag. Water comes into play on several holes, and strategic bunkering demands thoughtful approach shots. The course favors accuracy over distance, with risk-reward decisions throughout the round.
The Links offers more forgiveness off the tee but challenges players with varied par-3s requiring precise iron play. While less intimidating for beginners, the course still presents scoring challenges for experienced players through well-placed hazards and green complexes.
Amenity Comparison
University of Denver Golf Club features a comprehensive practice facility including driving range, short game area, and putting green. The clubhouse offers full-service dining with mountain views, locker rooms, and a well-stocked pro shop.
The Links provides a more streamlined experience with a functional practice green, modest clubhouse with snack bar service, and basic pro shop offering essential items and limited apparel.
Price Considerations
For value-conscious golfers, The Links clearly delivers the better price point, with peak rates approximately half those of the University course. However, when factoring playing time and overall experience, many find the University course’s higher fees justified by its championship quality, superior amenities, and memorable setting.
Local Accommodations & Golf Packages
Visitors planning multi-day golf trips to Highlands Ranch have several excellent accommodation options, many offering special golf packages and preferred access.
Nearby Lodging Options
While Highlands Ranch itself has limited hotel options, the nearby Park Meadows area (just 5-10 minutes away) offers numerous quality accommodations including:
– Marriott Denver South at Park Meadows
– Hilton Garden Inn Denver South Park Meadows
– Residence Inn Denver South/Park Meadows Mall
These properties frequently offer golf packages that include discounted tee times, particularly during weekdays and shoulder seasons. Typical packages include lodging and golf with potential savings of 15-25% compared to booking separately.
Extended Stay Considerations
For golfers planning longer stays or traveling with family, the area also offers numerous vacation rental options through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Many are located within short drives of both Highlands Ranch courses and provide additional space and amenities compared to standard hotel accommodations.
When planning a dedicated golf trip, consider scheduling rounds at complementary times—perhaps starting with the more demanding University course when fresh, then enjoying The Links as a more relaxed second-day experience. Many visitors also expand their itineraries to include other notable courses in south Denver, creating customized multi-course packages.
Booking Strategies & Insider Tips
Maximizing your Highlands Ranch golf experience requires understanding the nuances of local booking patterns and course-specific knowledge.
Securing Preferred Tee Times
Both Highlands Ranch courses utilize online booking systems that release tee times 7-14 days in advance, with the University course typically using the longer booking window. For premium weekend morning slots (7:00-10:00 AM), booking at the earliest possible opportunity is strongly recommended, particularly during summer months.
Weekday availability is generally more flexible, with same-day bookings often possible. However, the increasingly popular twilight rates (typically starting 3-4 hours before sunset) can fill quickly, especially during peak season.
Membership Considerations
For frequent players, both courses offer membership and loyalty programs worth exploring:
– The University course provides annual membership options with preferred booking windows, reduced green fees, and practice facility access.
– The Links offers punch cards and frequent player programs that can reduce per-round costs by 15-25% for regular visitors.
Local Knowledge Advantage
First-time players at the University course should note that several holes play significantly different than their yardage suggests due to elevation changes. The par-4 14th, for instance, typically plays a full club longer than its measured distance due to its uphill approach.
At The Links, understanding green complexes is crucial for scoring well. The putting surfaces feature subtle breaks that can be difficult to read for first-time visitors. Local knowledge suggests most putts break more toward the mountains than initially appears.
For the best overall experience, consider booking morning tee times in summer to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which typically develop after 2:00 PM. During shoulder seasons (spring/fall), afternoon bookings often provide the most comfortable playing temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best times of year to golf in Highlands Ranch?
Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) typically offer the ideal combination of course conditions, comfortable temperatures, and value pricing. Summer provides the most reliable weather but comes with peak-season rates and busier courses.
Do Highlands Ranch golf courses offer rental clubs?
Yes, both the University course and The Links provide rental sets for visitors. Quality Callaway equipment is typically available at the University course, while The Links offers standard rental sets. Reserving in advance is recommended, particularly for left-handed players or those with specific equipment preferences.
Are lessons available at Highlands Ranch golf courses?
Both courses offer instructional programs for all skill levels. The University course features a more comprehensive teaching program with video analysis and specialized clinics, while The Links provides affordable basic instruction perfect for beginners or those looking to refine specific aspects of their game.
Member Testimonials
“Fantastic food and staff.” – Traci Tartaglio
“Good very Good👀🤩🎶🧹🦊” – Samantha Cantelope
“Un lugar muy agradable” – Pablo Soriano
“Do construction projects ever end? I am confident people cannot add anything else to enhance the club’s rich history & inherent beauty.” – Tyler Bard
Your Highlands Ranch Golf Adventure Awaits
Highlands Ranch offers a compelling golf destination that combines accessibility, variety, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a serious player seeking the challenge of a championship layout or a casual golfer looking for an enjoyable executive course experience, the area delivers exceptional options.
The complementary nature of the University course and The Links means visitors can craft diverse golf experiences within minutes of each other, making Highlands Ranch ideal for both dedicated golf trips and adding quality rounds to business or family visits to the Denver area.
By understanding the seasonal patterns, booking strategies, and course-specific nuances outlined in this guide, you’re now equipped to plan the perfect Highlands Ranch golf experience. From securing ideal tee times to selecting the course that best matches your playing preferences, you have all the information needed to make the most of this outstanding golf destination.
Ready to experience Highlands Ranch golf firsthand? Contact either course directly to book your tee time, or explore their websites for current rates and special offers. Your memorable Colorado golf adventure is just a reservation away.