Denver: Golf That Plays Bigger at Altitude.
Set against the backdrop of the Front Range, Denver’s golf scene blends historic parkland architecture with dramatic foothill terrain and wide-open Colorado skies. Classic municipal layouts coexist with bold modern designs carved into rocky landscapes and ancient formations. With altitude-boosted ball flight, scenic variety, and year-round accessibility, the Denver Metro area delivers a uniquely Colorado mix of strategy, scenery, and fun.
Featured Golf Courses
Wellshire Golf Course – Denver, CO
Architect: Donald Ross (1926)
Once a private club and now one of America’s great municipal gems, Wellshire offers a traditional Ross-style parkland experience: tree-lined corridors, sloping greens, and bunkers placed with strategic intention. The routing unfolds across gentle terrain but rewards thoughtful angles and classic shot-making. Its legacy includes hosting legends like Ben Hogan and Bill Wright, giving Wellshire a timeless, competitive personality rooted in golf history.
Fossil Trace Golf Club – Golden, CO
Architect: Jim Engh (2003)
Carved into the foothills of Golden, Fossil Trace is one of Colorado’s most visually striking modern courses. Ancient rock formations, preserved fossil beds, rugged bunkering, and elevated greens create a dramatic, cinematic landscape. Wide fairways encourage aggressive swings, while bold contours and natural hazards reward strategic decision-making.
Signature Moment: The par-5 12th, bordered by towering stone walls and prehistoric outcroppings, delivers one of the most memorable approach shots in the state.
Fox Hollow Golf Course – Lakewood, CO
Architect: Denis Griffiths (1993) ; restorations by Thad Layton ongoing
Fox Hollow features three distinct nines, Hickory, Pine, and Willow, each showcasing a different angle of Colorado parkland golf. Hickory plays wide and traditional, Pine introduces elevation changes and tighter tree lines, and Willow blends both styles with water features and varied green complexes. Together, they form a versatile, choose-your-routing experience that offers something for every golfer.
Plan Your Next Trip the Right Way
See how the courses, hotels, and areas sit relative to each other in Denver.
Insider Notes:
Denver’s altitude: Adds noticeable distance, expect your yardages to change by a club or more.
Golden (near Fossil Trace) and Lakewood (near Fox Hollow): Offer great post-round breweries and local dining.
Scenic foothill views: Line the drive toward Golden.
Airport Access:
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Wellshire: ~20–25 minutes
Fossil Trace: ~30–35 minutes
Fox Hollow: ~35–45 minutes
Driving Times:
Boulder: ~35–45 minutes
Colorado Springs: ~1 hr 15 min
Fort Collins: ~1 hr 10 min
Wellshire Golf Course – Denver, CO Reviews
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“This course is really awesome! If you like challenging holes with beautiful greens Wellshire is definitely the place! The staff was really friendly, there's nice restrooms throughout the course and a beverage shop on the back 9!"
-David
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"Amazing and classic Donald Ross design with a lot of history. Great views, a challenging track - Don’t miss it in the wrong spot ! Easy to walk course but can be challenging to get on so make your reservations well in advance."
-Adam
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"I've been playing at Wellshire on Thursday afternoons and eating there afterwards for ten plus years. The staff couldn't be nicer and accommodating and the course is in pretty condition."
-Victoria
Fossil Trace Golf Club – Golden, CO Reviews
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"Course was in mint shape with amazing scenery of the mountains as your background..hole 12 is ridiculous with 3 giant sandstone rocks in the middle of the fairway(see pics). Absolutely outstanding course with professional staff throughout, pro shop has great must have merch."
-John
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"This was such a beautiful place to play and each hole was unique. The driving range had a few spots reserved for those with tee times that were already set up with balls."
-Casey
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"Had a great time on Sunday while in Denver for work. I was paired up with three guys we had a great time the golf course was in great shape. Pace of play was solid & the food at the restaurant was delicious after.”
-Gregory
Fox Hollow Golf Course – Lakewood, CO Reviews
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"This is a beautiful golf course. They take really good care of it. Only a couple of greens are slightly having an issue with fullness. I did a Am Tour here and it was loads of fun!”
-Eric
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"The course was in excellent condition and clearly well cared for. It's a shame we had to deal with cart path restrictions during our visit. The scenery on the canyon course was truly breathtaking.”
-Shane
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"Breathtaking, from the professionals in the pro shop and restaurant, through the starters, the course and pace of play and of course the views."
-Ellen
