The Great Smoky Mountains are among the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. The rolling hills, soaring trees, and diverse plant life make the Smokies a truly awesome place to be. Particularly for those who love an outdoor sport or pastime, the Smokies are worth the trip, whether it’s just an hour’s drive or a cross-country road trip.
Golf is just one of those outdoor activities that is made even more exciting by the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Luckily, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the surrounding areas are home to several gorgeous and high-quality golf courses, often touted as some of the best in the state. Beginners can learn a few new tricks and seasoned pros can test their skills at these scenic courses across Tennessee.
Gatlinburg Golf Course
520 Dollywood Lane
Pigeon Forge, TN
Light #8
Touted as one of the best and most scenic golf courses in the state of Tennessee, Gatlinburg Golf Course, designed by architect William Langford, features 18 holes along a beautifully manicured course. The course was renovated in 1993 and then again in 2007 by Bob Cupp & Associates of Atlanta. The views of the Great Smoky Mountains from this course cannot be beat. It was voted the GolfDigest “Best Municipal Golf Course in All 50 States.” The pristine grounds are gorgeous year-round, but the changing of the leaves in fall take this course to another level of breathtaking. Lush trees in and around the course make for a truly unique and ever-changing environment.
Course Layout
The course is challenging for both beginners and seasoned golfers. Hole #12, “Sky Hi,” is 194 yards long and drops 200 feet, tee to green. It is one of the most dramatic holes in the country. Hole #3, “Long Lane,” is a staggering 529-yard par 5, and Hole #17 is a tough 231-yard par 3! In all, the course is 6,281 challenging and scenic yards.
Amenities
The Pro Shop, located just inside the Clubhouse, has all the latest apparel and golf gadgets. The Clubhouse offers food service with burgers, chicken salad sandwiches, and more. Grab a bite before starting the for the day, or sit down for a relaxing meal after the back nine.
Green Fees and Tee Times
- $60 – Before noon
- $50 – Noon to 4 p.m.
- $40 – After 4 p.m.
- $30 – 9-hole fee
- $55 – Before noon
- $45 – After noon
- $30 – 9-hole fee
Tee times can be reserved online or by calling the pro shop at 800.231.4128 or 865.453.3912.
Bent Creek Golf Course
3919 East Parkway
Gatlinburg, TN
Located in the Bent Creek Golf Village, Bent Creek Golf Course is a well-manicured par 72 course designed by the legendary Gary Player, a three-time Masters and British Open Championship Winner. Since 1972, Bent Creek has offered challenging play for golfers of all skill levels along a scenic 18 holes. Classic Smoky Mountain features, including a quiet mountain stream and gorgeous trees, have helped this course gain recognition among the “Top 50 Golf Courses in the South” by Southern Living Travel Guide. The backdrop of the Smokies will make golfing here truly memorable.
Course Layout
The front nine runs along the valley floor, and the back nine poses a challenge along mountainous terrain. A sparkling stream runs through the entire course, offering tranquility for a peaceful day of golf.
Amenities
Top-of-the-line amenities at Bent Creek Golf Course include the well-stocked, full-service Pro Shop, chipping and putting areas, golf lessons by a PGA Staff, and the Creek Side Grill. Group and tournament rates are available, as well as golf packages and private golf outings.
Green Fees and Tee Times
7 days a week
- $45 – 18 holes, before 1 p.m.
- $35 – 18 holes, after 1 p.m.
- $22.50 – 9 holes
Tee times can be booked online or by calling 865.436.3947.
The Sevierville Golf Club
Hours: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
1444 Old Knoxville Highway
Sevierville, TN
Featuring two 18-hole championship courses, The Highlands and The River, The Sevierville Golf Club boasts fantastic scenery at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains. It offers the high quality expected from a private golf club with the convenience of a daily fee course. A blend of gorgeous greens, group event amenities, and quality staff and services makes this a course not to be missed. It will offer a beautiful day of golfing in the Smokies for golfers of all skill levels.
Course Layout
The Highlands is a par 70 winding through the hills of the Smokies and next to fresh water ponds. The River is a par 72 that runs along and across the Little Pigeon River. Course maps online give golfers a heads-up of what is to come on The Highlands and The River. The friendly and professional staff, headed up by PGA Professional and General Manager Mark Wallace, are happy to help guests with any of their needs.
Amenities
Along with the two championship courses, The Sevierville Golf Club is also home to a driving range with grass tees, a putting green, and a chipping area. Mulligan’s Restaurant, located at the clubhouse, is open for lunch from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily. Custom menu planning is available for groups, and the dining room or outdoor pavilion can be rented out. Available team building events include putting contests, golf clinics, Closest to the Hole, Hole in One, and more.
Green Fees and Tee Times
Rates include cart fees
- $59 – 18 holes, After 8 a.m. (15 years old and under – 50% off, Seniors - $49)
- $49 – 18 holes, After 1 p.m. (15 years old and under – 50% off)
- $34 – 18 holes, After 4 p.m. (15 years old and under – 50% off)
Tee Times can be reserved online or by calling 865.429.4223 or toll free at 888.710.1388.