Tom Jackson’s Mountain Masterpiece: Course Design & Features

When acclaimed golf architect Tom Jackson first surveyed the 1,450 acres that would become Burlingame Country Club in the early 1980s, he recognized a rare opportunity. Unlike designers who reshape land to fit their vision, Jackson embraced the natural contours and features of this mountain property, allowing the course to emerge organically from its surroundings.

The front nine, completed in 1983, and the back nine, finished in 1985, showcase Jackson’s commitment to preserving the natural beauty while creating a challenging yet playable championship course. The design pays homage to the land’s character, with holes that follow ridge lines, cross valleys, and hug the shores of mountain lakes.

The course features bent grass greens and fairways that maintain exceptional quality despite the challenges of mountain terrain. Strategic bunkers guard approaches, while the natural movement of the land creates subtle breaks on the putting surfaces that reward careful reading.

What truly sets Burlingame apart is how the course embraces its elevation. Playing at 3,000-3,500 feet doesn’t just provide cooler temperatures and breathtaking views—it fundamentally changes ball flight and distance calculations, adding complexity that seasoned golfers appreciate. The dramatic shifts in elevation between holes create a dynamic playing experience where no two shots feel quite the same.

The routing of the course takes players on a journey through distinct ecological zones, from riverside fairways to woodland corridors and open vistas. This variety ensures that each hole has its own character and challenge, creating a memorable round that never feels repetitive.

Signature Holes: The Crown Jewels of Burlingame

While every hole at Burlingame offers something special, several stand out as truly exceptional golf experiences that showcase the brilliance of Jackson’s design and the beauty of the Blue Ridge setting.

The par-4 17th and par-5 18th deserve special mention as two of the most perfectly framed finishing holes you’ll encounter. As one member noted, “17 and 18 may be two of the best framed greens” in mountain golf. The approach to the 17th green requires precision as players navigate a demanding shot toward a green site that seems to emerge naturally from the surrounding landscape.

The 18th hole provides a fitting climax to the round, with a risk-reward par 5 that tempts longer hitters while punishing misplaced aggression. The green setting, with mountain backdrops and strategic bunkering, creates a memorable finishing moment that leaves players eager to return.

Earlier in the round, golfers encounter holes that showcase Burlingame’s diversity. Holes that run alongside the Horse Pasture River (stocked with rainbow trout three times yearly) combine golfing challenge with natural beauty. Water features come into play strategically throughout the course, with several holes requiring carries over crystal-clear mountain lakes that reflect the surrounding forests and sky.

What makes these signature holes truly special isn’t just their difficulty or beauty in isolation—it’s how they fit within the overall flow of the course. Jackson created a layout where each hole prepares you for the next, building rhythm and anticipation throughout the round that culminates in that spectacular finishing stretch.

Mountain Golf Strategy: Tips for Conquering Elevation

Playing golf at elevation requires adjustments and strategy beyond what’s needed at sea-level courses. At Burlingame, understanding how to adapt your game to the mountain environment can transform your experience from challenging to rewarding.

The thin mountain air at 3,000-3,500 feet elevation typically adds distance to your shots—approximately 5-7% compared to sea level. However, this advantage comes with added complexity when factoring in uphill and downhill shots. A severe uphill approach might actually play longer than the yardage indicates, while downhill shots can travel significantly further than expected.

Local knowledge matters tremendously at Burlingame. The greens feature subtle breaks influenced by the mountains that aren’t always obvious at first glance. The general rule among members is that putts tend to break toward the valleys, but reading the more nuanced movements requires experience or guidance from someone familiar with the course.

Course management becomes particularly important on holes with significant elevation changes. Conservative play from the tee often positions you better for approach shots, as finding the correct level or section of fairway can dramatically impact your angle to the green.

As one regular guest advises: “Bring a range finder with slope functionality.” This technology helps calculate the effective playing distance accounting for elevation changes, giving you more confidence in club selection.

Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, sometimes within the span of a single round. Being prepared with appropriate layering and rain gear ensures you can adapt to changing conditions without disrupting your game. The good news is that Burlingame’s elevation provides naturally cooler temperatures during summer months, making afternoon rounds comfortable even when lower elevations are sweltering.

Year-Round Excellence: Course Conditions & Maintenance

Maintaining championship-quality playing surfaces at mountain elevation presents unique challenges, but Burlingame’s commitment to excellence is evident in the consistent quality of the course throughout the seasons.

The bent grass greens and fairways receive meticulous care from a dedicated maintenance team who understand the specific needs of high-elevation turf management. This specialized knowledge allows them to create putting surfaces that roll true and fairways that provide ideal playing conditions.

Even after significant rainfall, the course’s excellent drainage systems allow play to resume quickly. As one recent visitor noted, “Even with the incredible amounts of water from the rain, the course was in great shape and easy to navigate.” This resilience speaks to both thoughtful design and ongoing investment in course infrastructure.

Seasonal transitions are handled with particular care. The maintenance team works diligently during shoulder seasons to ensure the course remains playable and attractive as it moves from winter dormancy to spring growth, or as it prepares for fall conditions.

Fall brings spectacular conditions as the surrounding forests explode with color. The contrast of emerald fairways against the backdrop of autumn foliage creates not just beautiful golf holes but photographic opportunities that capture the essence of mountain golf. Sunset rounds during fall are particularly sought-after for their magical light quality across the course.

Winter golf at this elevation requires flexibility, but milder days often allow for play when conditions permit. The maintenance team adapts their practices seasonally, ensuring that whenever weather allows for golf, the course presents itself in the best possible condition.

The Complete Visitor Experience: What to Expect

A round of golf at Burlingame transcends the 18 holes to become a complete experience that begins the moment you arrive and continues long after your final putt drops.

The recently renovated clubhouse provides a welcoming introduction to the Burlingame experience. The professional staff in the pro shop offer more than just check-in services—they provide valuable insights about the course, current conditions, and tips for making the most of your round.

Practice facilities allow you to warm up properly before your round, with areas that help you adjust to the elevation’s effect on your ball flight. Many visitors comment that taking time to calibrate their distance control on the practice range significantly improves their scoring during the actual round.

On-course amenities enhance comfort throughout your round. Well-placed water stations help you stay hydrated at elevation, while the natural beauty surrounding you creates moments of tranquility between shots. The pace of play is respectfully maintained, allowing you to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed or delayed.

After your round, Burlingame’s dining venues offer exceptional options for post-golf refreshment. The Overlook Room provides panoramic mountain and golf course views that help you relive your round while enjoying fine cuisine. For a more casual experience, the Outdoor Dining Deck and Elevation 3042 offer relaxed atmospheres with equally impressive food and beverage selections.

What truly distinguishes the visitor experience at Burlingame is the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Despite being a private club, guests consistently remark on the friendly nature of both staff and members. As one visitor noted, “Members were fun and kind,” creating an environment where everyone feels welcome regardless of handicap or playing ability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Member & Guest Testimonials

Planning Your Burlingame Golf Experience

For those fortunate enough to secure a tee time at Burlingame, proper preparation enhances your experience on this exceptional mountain course.

First, consider timing your visit to align with your preferred mountain golf experience. Summer offers comfortable temperatures for full-day play, while fall delivers spectacular foliage that transforms the visual character of the course. Many photographers specifically seek late afternoon tee times in autumn to capture the golden light on the colorful surroundings.

Equipment considerations for mountain golf include having a rangefinder with slope functionality to calculate effective distances on the significant elevation changes. A full complement of clubs gives you versatility for the varied shot requirements, while an extra sleeve of balls provides insurance against the occasional mountain mishap.

Dress appropriately for mountain weather, which can change quickly. Layering is key, allowing you to adjust to temperature shifts throughout your round. Comfortable golf shoes with good traction help navigate the naturally undulating terrain.

Beyond golf preparation, consider extending your visit to experience the complete Burlingame lifestyle. The club’s dining venues deserve unhurried enjoyment, particularly after your round when you can reflect on the day’s play while taking in mountain views from the Overlook Room or Outdoor Dining Deck.

For those contemplating a deeper connection with Burlingame, inquire about membership opportunities and real estate options within the community. The 1,450-acre property includes villas, condos, cottages, homesites, and single-family homes that offer the chance to make this mountain golf paradise a permanent or seasonal retreat.

Whether you visit once or return regularly, Burlingame’s championship mountain course promises what their tagline describes as “The Best of Times”—memorable golf in a setting of natural splendor that reminds us why we fell in love with this game in the first place.