Tom Jackson’s Championship Design

When legendary course architect Tom Jackson first surveyed the rugged terrain of what would become Burlingame Country Club, he saw an opportunity to create something truly special. Rather than fighting against the natural landscape, Jackson embraced the mountainous topography, creating a course that feels as if it’s always been part of these ancient hills.

Harmonizing with the Mountain Terrain

The course masterfully follows the natural contours of the land, with fairways that wind through mature hardwood forests and alongside bubbling mountain streams. Jackson’s design philosophy shines through in how each hole appears to have emerged organically from the landscape rather than being forcibly carved into it.

Playing at elevations between 3,000 and 3,500 feet presents unique challenges and rewards. The ball flies farther in the thin mountain air, but the dramatic elevation changes between tees and greens require careful club selection and strategic thinking.

Strategic Elements of Mountain Design

The 6,600-yard championship layout may seem modest by modern standards, but don’t be fooled—Burlingame demands precision over power. Jackson incorporated natural features as hazards, using rock outcroppings, streams, and elevation changes to create a course that rewards thoughtful play rather than brute force.

Wide landing areas provide forgiveness off the tee, but approach shots must be precise. The greens, renowned for their excellent condition year-round, feature subtle breaks influenced by the surrounding mountains that can puzzle even experienced players.

Hole-by-Hole Course Journey

Each hole at Burlingame tells its own story, presenting unique challenges and spectacular views that create a memorable journey through the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Front Nine Highlights

The opening holes ease players into the round before the course reveals its true character. The par-4 3rd hole offers the first dramatic mountain vista, with a downhill tee shot to a fairway that seems to float above the valley floor. The par-3 6th requires a precise shot over water to a green surrounded by bunkers, while the demanding par-5 9th presents a risk-reward opportunity for longer hitters.

Back Nine Drama

The back nine climbs to higher elevations, offering increasingly spectacular views. The par-4 13th features a dramatic downhill tee shot with the mountains serving as a backdrop. The signature par-3 15th requires a carry over a ravine to a well-protected green, with the entire hole framed by native rhododendron and mountain laurel.

The closing holes at Burlingame are particularly memorable. The par-4 17th and par-5 18th feature some of the most beautifully framed greens on the course, with natural water features and mountain backdrops creating a fitting finale to the round. As Justin Bennett noted in his review, “17 and 18 may be 2 of the best framed greens” in mountain golf.

Seasonal Golfing in Sapphire Valley

One of Burlingame’s unique charms is how dramatically the course changes with the seasons, offering essentially four different playing experiences throughout the year.

Spring Awakening

As winter recedes and the mountains come alive, Burlingame bursts with color. Dogwoods, redbuds, and wildflowers line the fairways, while the native azaleas create vibrant splashes against the greening landscape. Spring golf at Burlingame means softer conditions, the gentle sounds of streams swollen with snowmelt, and the chance to see the course awakening from its winter slumber.

Summer Splendor

Summer brings perfect golfing weather to the mountains. While temperatures soar in the lowlands, Burlingame’s elevation keeps rounds comfortable even in July and August. The course reaches its peak condition during these months, with immaculate fairways and greens rolling true and fast. The lush forest canopy provides welcome shade, and afternoon thunderstorms quickly give way to spectacular rainbows over the mountains.

Fall Foliage

Autumn is perhaps the most magical time to experience Burlingame. The Blue Ridge Mountains are world-famous for their fall color, and playing golf surrounded by this spectacular display is truly special. As Justin Bennett advised, “Bring your camera and shoot for an afternoon round to get that sunset pic in Fall. Over the next couple of weeks, the colors will be spectacular as the leaves will be changing colors.”

Winter Tranquility

While the course closes during the snowiest periods, Burlingame often enjoys playable days even in winter. The dormant fairways play firm and fast, offering extra roll and a different strategic challenge. On clear winter days, the leafless trees reveal mountain views hidden during other seasons, and the peaceful tranquility of winter golf offers a special experience for those willing to brave the cooler temperatures.

Golf Amenities and Services

Burlingame Country Club complements its exceptional course with first-class amenities and services designed to enhance the golfing experience for members and guests.

Professional Instruction

The club’s PGA professionals offer personalized instruction tailored to all skill levels. From beginners learning the fundamentals to experienced players fine-tuning their game, Burlingame’s instructional programs use the latest teaching technology alongside traditional hands-on coaching. Group clinics and junior golf programs help foster a community of golfers who continually improve and enjoy the game together.

Practice Facilities

Serious golfers appreciate Burlingame’s comprehensive practice facilities. The driving range features multiple hitting stations with target greens at various distances, allowing for precise practice of every club in the bag. The short game area includes putting greens that mirror the speed and contour of the course greens, along with dedicated areas for chipping, pitching, and bunker practice.

Tournament and Event Opportunities

Burlingame hosts a full calendar of member tournaments throughout the season, from casual weekend games to more competitive club championships. Special events like member-guest tournaments foster camaraderie and friendly competition. The professional staff can also arrange custom tournaments for corporate outings or charitable events, handling all details from format selection to scoring and prizes.

Pro Shop and Equipment

The recently renovated clubhouse includes a well-stocked pro shop offering the latest equipment, apparel, and accessories. The knowledgeable staff provides expert club fitting services using advanced launch monitor technology to ensure members play with equipment optimized for their swing. Rental clubs are available for guests, featuring premium brands that ensure visitors can enjoy the course without transporting their own equipment.

The Natural Mountain Golf Experience

What truly sets Burlingame apart from other courses is its seamless integration with the natural mountain environment, creating an experience that transcends the game itself.

Water Features

The course incorporates the area’s natural water features, with mountain streams and small waterfalls adding both beauty and strategic challenge. The sound of rushing water accompanies players throughout much of the round, creating a peaceful soundtrack to the golf experience. These water features aren’t merely aesthetic—they’re positioned to influence play and demand strategic decision-making on several holes.

Flora and Fauna

Burlingame serves as something of a nature preserve, with the maintained playing areas surrounded by native Appalachian forest. Towering hardwoods provide definition to holes, while understory plants like mountain laurel, rhododendron, and ferns create a rich tapestry of textures. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species making regular appearances during rounds.

Conservation and Stewardship

The club takes its role as environmental steward seriously, maintaining the course using sustainable practices that protect the surrounding ecosystem. Natural areas are preserved, water usage is carefully managed, and the maintenance team works to enhance habitat for native species while providing excellent playing conditions.

As Christopher Cobb noted in his review, Burlingame offers “a true mountain golf experience” where the natural environment is as much a part of the experience as the game itself. The integration of golf and nature creates moments of transcendent beauty that remain with players long after the round ends.

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Member and Guest Testimonials