Vermont Golf Courses Guide

Discover 63+ championship courses from lakefront beauties to mountain top stunners across the Green Mountain State

63+
Golf Courses
May-Oct
Golf Season
1886
Oldest Course
17
9-Hole Courses

Vermont offers some of New England's most scenic and challenging golf experiences. From championship resort courses nestled in the Green Mountains to historic clubs dating back to the 1800s, the state features 63+ courses ranging from mountain top layouts to lakefront designs. The Vermont Golf Association represents nearly 11,000 golfers across these clubs, making Vermont a premier destination for golf enthusiasts seeking spectacular autumn foliage views and challenging championship layouts.

Whether you're looking for championship tests like Green Mountain National (voted #1 public course in Vermont), historic classics like Dorset Field Club (oldest continuously operated course in the U.S. since 1886), or resort golf at Stratton Mountain and Stowe, Vermont delivers world-class golf from late spring through early fall.

β›³ Top Championship Golf Courses in Vermont

Green Mountain National Golf Course Top Rated

πŸ“ Killington

Voted #1 public golf course in Vermont, featuring 18 holes of pristine championship golf immersed in the Green Mountains. This par-72 course offers challenging layouts with spectacular mountain views. Located 2 miles north of U.S. Route 4 on Vermont Route 100.

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Jay Peak Golf Course #2 in VT

πŸ“ Jay β€’ Northeast Kingdom

Rated #2 golf course in Vermont by Golf Digest. One of the longest courses in the state, stretching almost 7,000 yards from the back tees. Well-maintained fairways with tricky greens. Vermont residents enjoy special membership rates starting at $899. Cart rentals: $15 for 9 holes, $20 for 18 holes.

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Mountain Course at Spruce Peak

πŸ“ Stowe

Rated the #1 course in Vermont by Golf Advisor. Reaches an elevation of more than 1,800 feet with sweeping views of Spruce Peak and Mt. Mansfield. Offers 360-degree mountain views and challenging championship golf in a stunning alpine setting. Open for the 2025 season.

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Vermont National Country Club

πŸ“ South Burlington

Jack Nicklaus-designed championship course offering elevated golf experiences in the Burlington area. Features strategic bunkering, undulating greens, and panoramic views. One of Vermont's premier public courses accessible to visiting golfers.

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The Country Club of Vermont

πŸ“ Waterbury Center

Graham Cooke design from the late 1990s that has risen to near the top of Vermont rankings. Features fescue fairways with stunning views of the Worcester and Mansfield mountain ranges. Exceptional for fall foliage golf with vibrant color combinations.

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Mount Snow Golf Club

πŸ“ West Dover β€’ Southern Vermont

Matured into one of Vermont's premier mountain courses. Rated one of the top five courses in the state by Golf Digest and named one of the top 10 resort courses in the country by SKI Magazine. Features 18 rolling holes in the heart of the Green Mountains with spectacular mountain views.

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πŸ”οΈ Resort & Mountain Golf Courses

Vermont's ski resort areas offer exceptional golf experiences during summer months, with "Stay and Play" packages combining golf with resort accommodations.

Stratton Mountain Resort Golf Course

πŸ“ Stratton Mountain β€’ Southern Vermont

27-hole championship course designed by Geoffrey Cornish with three distinct 9-hole layouts: Forest, Lake, and Mountain. Founded by Arnold Palmer in 1969. Golf Digest describes it as one of the top resort courses in New England. Hosts the Stratton Golf School. Hidden gem nestled in the Green Mountains.

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Stowe Country Club

πŸ“ 744 Cape Cod Rd, Stowe

Offers 360-degree views of the mountains including Mt. Mansfield. Traditional Vermont golf experience with challenging layouts and spectacular scenery. Perfect for golfers seeking mountain golf combined with the charm of Stowe Village.

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Okemo Valley Golf Club

πŸ“ Ludlow

Noted as one of the "best public courses in Vermont" by Golf Digest in 2016. Features wide emerald fairways framed with rolling fields of golden fescue, moderate elevation changes, strategically placed hazards, and undulating greens. Part of Okemo Mountain Resort with Stay and Play packages available.

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Tater Hill Golf Club

πŸ“ Okemo Resort Area, Ludlow

Second 18-hole championship course at Okemo Resort. Offers challenging layouts with scenic mountain views. Combined with Okemo Valley, provides 36 holes of championship golf. Okemo offers eight different lodging options for golfers.

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Killington Golf Course

πŸ“ Killington

6,186-yard, par-72 championship course. Includes practice facility with 12,000 square-foot putting green and practice bunker, full-size retail pro shop, on-course beverage cart, caddy shack with food offerings, and Clubhouse Bar and Grill. Open to the public daily, weather permitting, for summer 2025.

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Sugarbush Resort Golf Club

πŸ“ Warren

9-hole course offering a relaxed, fun experience perfect for beginners and families. Located at famous Sugarbush ski resort with spring rates and prime season pricing. Scenic mountain views throughout the course.

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Cortina Inn and Resort Golf

πŸ“ Killington

Resort course in the Killington area offering convenient golf and lodging packages. Perfect for golfers visiting the central Vermont mountain region.

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Basin Harbor Golf Club

πŸ“ Vergennes β€’ Lake Champlain

Lakefront beauty with views of Lake Champlain. During fall, surrounded by vibrant hues reflected off the lake for truly picturesque views. Historic resort course offering exceptional scenery and challenging golf.

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πŸ›οΈ Historic Vermont Golf Courses

Vermont is home to some of America's oldest and most historic golf courses, including the oldest continuously operated course in the United States.

Dorset Field Club Est. 1886

πŸ“ Dorset β€’ Southern Vermont

Opened in 1886, Dorset Field Club is the oldest continuously operated golf course in the United States. Originally named Dorset Golf Links, the course was first laid out by summer golfers. Expanded from 9 to 18 holes in 1999 by Vermont designer Steve Durkee. Now measures 6,240 yards with tight landing areas, fescue grasses, and quick, undulating greens.

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Ekwanok Country Club Est. 1899

πŸ“ Manchester β€’ Southern Vermont

Established in 1899, designed by Walter J. Travis and John Duncan Dunn. Opened in 1900 as the first 18-hole golf course in the United States to rival famous UK courses. Considered the best private club in Vermont. Par-70 course measures 6,566 yards. Famous par-5 seventh hole requires blind second shot over hill and has never been reached in two. Nestled beneath Mount Equinox with Geoffrey Cornish modifications in 1960s and recent work by Bruce Hepner.

Rutland Country Club Est. 1901

πŸ“ Rutland

One of the original golf courses in Vermont, established in 1901. Known throughout the state for its greens - small, quick, and true. Originally 9 holes on farmland, converted to 18 holes in 1927 by Wayne Stiles and John Van Kleek. Measures 6,185 yards. Semi-private course with on-site putting green, pro shop, and full-service restaurant (Baxter's Restaurant) open year-round to the public. Enhanced foliage views from back tee boxes on holes 14 and 17.

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Burlington Country Club Donald Ross

πŸ“ South Burlington

Donald Ross design located next to the University of Vermont campus. Underwent comprehensive restoration by Dr. Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry in the late 1990s. One of the few Donald Ross courses in Vermont, representing the legendary architect who designed 413 courses in North America and is regarded as one of golf's greatest designers.

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The Golf Club at Equinox Est. 1927

πŸ“ Manchester Village

Scenic 1927 Walter Travis design at the famous Equinox Resort. Tests a player's ability to hit a variety of shots. Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains beneath Equinox Mountain, offering spectacular fall foliage views. Historic resort course with challenging layouts and stunning valley setting.

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Manchester Country Club

πŸ“ Manchester

Located on some of the most beautiful countryside in Southern Vermont. Classic New England golf course with scenic mountain views and traditional layout. Part of the historic Manchester golf scene alongside Ekwanok and Equinox.

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Bellows Falls Country Club Est. 1923

πŸ“ Bellows Falls β€’ Southern Vermont

9-hole course operating since 1923 in the beautiful mountains of southern Vermont. Full restaurant and bar. Traditional small-town Vermont golf experience with historic charm.

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Country Club of Barre Est. 1924

πŸ“ Plainfield β€’ Central Vermont

Founded in 1924, considered one of the "must play" courses in central Vermont. Nestled in the rolling hills of Plainfield. Offers traditional New England golf with challenging layouts and beautiful scenery.

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πŸ“ Vermont Golf Courses by Region

Burlington & Northwest Vermont

The Burlington area offers championship courses near Lake Champlain with views of the Adirondacks.

  • Vermont National Country Club - South Burlington (Jack Nicklaus design, championship course)
  • Burlington Country Club - South Burlington (Donald Ross design, restored by Hurdzan/Fry)
  • Kwiniaska Golf Club - Shelburne (scenic lakefront golf)
  • Basin Harbor Golf Club - Vergennes (Lake Champlain resort course)
  • Williston Golf Club - Williston (public course)
  • Alburg Golf Links - Alburg (North Hero Islands area)
  • Champlain Country Club - Swanton (Franklin County)
  • Bakersfield Country Club - Bakersfield (small town course)
  • Enosburg Falls Country Club - Enosburg Falls (9-hole course)
  • Richford Country Club - Richford (9-hole, small town golf)

Northeast Kingdom

Vermont's remote northeast region features scenic courses with mountain and lake views, including Jay Peak.

  • Jay Peak Golf Course - Jay (#2 in Vermont by Golf Digest, nearly 7,000 yards)
  • Newport Country Club - Newport (views of Lake Memphremagog, Jay Peak, and Willoughby Gap)
  • St. Johnsbury Country Club - St. Johnsbury (praised for excellent greens)
  • Mountain View Country Club - Greensboro (hidden gem with Caspian Lake views)
  • Barton Golf Club - Barton (family owned and operated)
  • Lyndon Country Club - Lyndonville
  • Orleans Country Club - Orleans
  • Lake Morey Country Club - Fairlee (resort course)

Central Vermont (Stowe, Waterbury, Montpelier, Barre)

Mountain golf with views of Mt. Mansfield and Worcester Range.

  • Mountain Course at Spruce Peak - Stowe (#1 by Golf Advisor, elevation 1,800+ feet)
  • Stowe Country Club - Stowe (360-degree mountain views)
  • Country Club of Vermont - Waterbury Center (Graham Cooke design, top-rated)
  • Blush Hill Country Club - Waterbury (9-hole, most picturesque in Central VT)
  • Country Club of Barre - Plainfield (founded 1924, "must play")
  • Montpelier Elks Country Club - Montpelier (9-hole course)
  • Northfield Country Club - Northfield

Killington & Central Mountains

Championship resort courses in the Green Mountains.

  • Green Mountain National Golf Course - Killington (#1 public in Vermont)
  • Killington Golf Course - Killington (6,186 yards, par-72 championship)
  • Cortina Inn and Resort - Killington (resort course)
  • Okemo Valley Golf Club - Ludlow (Golf Digest best public 2016)
  • Tater Hill Golf Club - Ludlow (second Okemo course, 36 holes total)
  • Neshobe Golf Club - Brandon (public course)
  • Rutland Country Club - Rutland (established 1901, semi-private)
  • Proctor Pittsford Country Club - Pittsford
  • Woodstock Country Club - Woodstock (top-rated public)
  • Lake St. Catherine Country Club - Poultney

Southern Vermont (Manchester, Bennington, Brattleboro, Stratton)

Historic courses and resort golf in the Green Mountains.

  • Stratton Mountain Resort - Stratton (27 holes: Forest, Lake, Mountain nines)
  • Mount Snow Golf Club - West Dover (top 5 in state, top 10 resort in country)
  • Ekwanok Country Club - Manchester (est. 1899, Walter Travis design, best private)
  • Golf Club at Equinox - Manchester Village (1927 Walter Travis design)
  • Manchester Country Club - Manchester (scenic countryside)
  • Dorset Field Club - Dorset (oldest in U.S., est. 1886)
  • Gleneagles Golf Course - Manchester (at the Equinox Resort)
  • Brattleboro Country Club - Brattleboro (public course)
  • Bellows Falls Country Club - Bellows Falls (9-hole, est. 1923)
  • Windham Country Club - Grafton
  • West Bolton Golf Club - West Bolton
  • Hermitage Golf Club - Wilmington

Mad River Valley & Sugarbush

  • Sugarbush Resort Golf Club - Warren (9-hole resort course)
  • Tucker Hill Country Club - Waitsfield

πŸ‚ Fall Foliage Golf in Vermont

Vermont is famous for fall foliage, and late September through early October offers golfers one of the most beautiful times of year to play. The greens are surrounded by reds, golds, and oranges, creating spectacular mountain vistas and truly epic fall foliage exposure that takes golfing to the next level.

Top Courses for Fall Foliage Views:

Country Club of Vermont Top Pick

πŸ“ Waterbury

The fescue and views of the Worcester and Mansfield mountain ranges offer a stunning combination of colors in the fall. One of the best autumn golf experiences in New England.

Jay Peak Resort

πŸ“ Northeast Kingdom

Leaves begin to change color here before anywhere else in Vermont. Nearly 7,000 yards from back tees with spectacular early-fall color displays and mountain views.

Rutland Country Club

πŸ“ Rutland

For enhanced foliage views, golfers should find the back tee boxes on holes 14 and 17. Small, quick greens defend against the modest 6,185-yard layout while surrounded by autumn colors.

Basin Harbor Golf Club

πŸ“ Vergennes

Surrounded by vibrant fall hues that are reflected off Lake Champlain itself for truly picturesque views. Lakefront beauty with Adirondack mountain backdrop.

The Golf Club at Equinox

πŸ“ Manchester Village

Vermont golf resort nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, guaranteed to be surrounded by some of the best fall views. Scenic 1927 Walter Travis design beneath Mount Equinox.

Mountain Course at Spruce Peak

πŸ“ Stowe

Elevation over 1,800 feet with sweeping views of Spruce Peak and Mt. Mansfield. Alpine setting provides spectacular 360-degree foliage views during peak season.

Vermont's combination of championship golf courses and spectacular autumn scenery creates a unique experience that draws golfers from across the country each fall season.

πŸ’‘ Visitor Tips & Practical Information

β›³ Golf Season & Weather

Vermont's golf season typically runs from late spring (May) to early fall (October), weather permitting.

  • Peak Season: June through September
  • Spring Rates: Available opening day through late May at most resorts
  • Fall Foliage: Late September is best for color
  • Weather: Mountain weather can change quickly - bring layers
  • Course Conditions: Most courses close for winter (November-April)

Tip: Small-town courses often operate seasonally. Call ahead before visiting!

πŸ’΅ Greens Fees & Rates

Vermont offers golf options across all price ranges:

  • Peak Season: Greens fees reach $70+ at championship courses
  • Resort Courses: $80-$120+ for premier mountain courses
  • Public Courses: $40-$70 for 18 holes
  • 9-Hole Courses: $25-$40, budget-friendly options
  • Cart Rentals: Typically $15 for 9 holes, $20 for 18 holes
  • Twilight Golf: More affordable rates in late afternoon
  • Off-Season: Spring and fall rates are lower

Vermont resident discounts available at many courses like Jay Peak ($899 annual membership vs. higher rates).

🏨 Stay & Play Golf Packages

Vermont ski resorts offer excellent golf and lodging packages:

  • Stratton Mountain: Resort golf with Arnold Palmer heritage, multiple lodging options
  • Okemo Resort: 36 holes (Okemo Valley + Tater Hill), eight lodging options
  • Jay Peak: Full privilege memberships and day rates, Vermont resident specials
  • Mount Snow: Top 10 resort course in country, ski resort amenities
  • Killington: Multiple courses in area, resort facilities
  • Stowe/Spruce Peak: Premier mountain golf with luxury accommodations
  • Equinox Resort: Historic luxury resort in Manchester
  • Basin Harbor: Lake Champlain resort with classic course

Stay & Play packages combine championship golf with resort amenities for complete Vermont experience.

🎯 Course Selection Guide

Choosing the right course for your skill level:

  • Championship Tests: Green Mountain National, Jay Peak, Ekwanok, Stratton (27 holes)
  • Scenic Mountain Golf: Spruce Peak, Stowe CC, Mount Snow, Country Club of Vermont
  • Historic Classics: Dorset Field (1886), Ekwanok (1899), Rutland CC (1901)
  • Beginner-Friendly: 9-hole courses like Sugarbush, Bellows Falls, Blush Hill
  • Budget Options: Small town courses and 9-hole layouts
  • Family Golf: Resort courses with facilities and amenities
  • Twilight Players: Most public courses offer late-day discounts

Vermont National, Green Mountain National, and Okemo Valley are top public options for visitors.

πŸ† Course Ratings & Reviews

Vermont courses receive high marks from major golf publications:

  • Golf Digest Rankings: Jay Peak (#2 in VT), Mount Snow (top 5), Okemo Valley (best public 2016)
  • Golf Advisor: Mountain Course at Spruce Peak (#1 in VT)
  • SKI Magazine: Mount Snow (top 10 resort course in country)
  • GolfPass: 75 courses with 1,471 reviews
  • Vermont Golf Association: 63 member clubs, 11,000 golfers

Vermont courses are rated highly for course conditions, pace of play, staff friendliness, and value for money.

πŸ“… Tee Time Reservations

How to book your Vermont golf round:

  • Advanced Booking: Recommended for peak summer weekends and fall foliage season
  • Resort Courses: Book through resort websites or call pro shops directly
  • GolfNow: Online tee times for many Vermont public courses
  • TeeOff.com: Discount tee times, save up to 50% off
  • Walk-ups: Available at many courses, especially weekdays
  • Private Clubs: Generally members only, some offer reciprocal agreements

Peak season (July-September) and fall foliage weekends require advance reservations.

πŸ—ΊοΈ Complete Vermont Golf Course Directory (63+ Courses)

Complete alphabetical listing of Vermont golf courses including 18-hole championship courses, 9-hole courses, resort courses, and private clubs.

  • Alburg Golf Links - Alburg
  • Arrowhead Golf Course - Milton
  • Bakersfield Country Club - Bakersfield
  • Barton Golf Club - Barton
  • Basin Harbor Golf Club - Vergennes
  • Bellows Falls Country Club - Bellows Falls (9 holes, est. 1923)
  • Blush Hill Country Club - Waterbury (9 holes)
  • Bomoseen Golf Club - Castleton (9 holes, par 35)
  • Brattleboro Country Club - Brattleboro
  • Burlington Country Club - South Burlington (Donald Ross)
  • Champlain Country Club - Swanton
  • Cortina Inn and Resort - Killington
  • Country Club of Barre - Plainfield (est. 1924)
  • Country Club of Vermont - Waterbury Center (Graham Cooke)
  • Crown Point Country Club - Springfield (18 holes, public access)
  • Dorset Field Club - Dorset (est. 1886, oldest in U.S.)
  • Ekwanok Country Club - Manchester (est. 1899, Walter Travis)
  • Enosburg Falls Country Club - Enosburg Falls (9 holes)
  • Fox Run Golf Club - Ludlow
  • Gleneagles Golf Course - Manchester (Equinox Resort)
  • Golf Club at Equinox - Manchester Village (1927 Walter Travis)
  • Green Mountain National Golf Course - Killington (#1 public)
  • Hermitage Golf Club - Wilmington
  • Jay Peak Golf Course - Jay (#2 in VT by Golf Digest)
  • Killington Golf Course - Killington (6,186 yards, par-72)
  • Kwiniaska Golf Club - Shelburne
  • Lake Morey Country Club - Fairlee
  • Lake St. Catherine Country Club - Poultney
  • Lyndon Country Club - Lyndonville
  • Manchester Country Club - Manchester
  • Montpelier Elks Country Club - Montpelier (9 holes)
  • Mountain Course at Spruce Peak - Stowe (#1 by Golf Advisor)
  • Mountain View Country Club - Greensboro (hidden gem)
  • Mount Snow Golf Club - West Dover (top 5 in state)
  • Neshobe Golf Club - Brandon
  • Newport Country Club - Newport (Lake Memphremagog views)
  • Northfield Country Club - Northfield
  • Okemo Valley Golf Club - Ludlow (Golf Digest best public 2016)
  • Orleans Country Club - Orleans
  • Proctor Pittsford Country Club - Pittsford
  • Richford Country Club - Richford (9 holes)
  • Rutland Country Club - Rutland (est. 1901, semi-private)
  • St. Johnsbury Country Club - St. Johnsbury
  • Stamford Valley Golf Course - Stamford
  • Stowe Country Club - Stowe (360-degree views)
  • Stratton Mountain Resort - Stratton (27 holes: Forest/Lake/Mountain)
  • Sugarbush Resort Golf Club - Warren (9 holes)
  • Tater Hill Golf Club - Ludlow (Okemo's second 18)
  • Tucker Hill Country Club - Waitsfield
  • Vermont National Country Club - South Burlington (Jack Nicklaus)
  • West Bolton Golf Club - West Bolton
  • Williston Golf Club - Williston
  • Windham Country Club - Grafton
  • Woodstock Country Club - Woodstock

Note: This directory includes public, semi-private, and private courses. Private clubs generally require membership or reciprocal agreements for play. Contact courses directly for access information and current rates.

Vermont Golf Associations & Organizations

Vermont Golf Association (VTGA)

Represents almost 11,000 golfers in 63 clubs dotted around Vermont. Maintains official golf club directory and organizes tournaments and events throughout the season.

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Vermont PGA

Professional Golfers' Association Vermont section. Represents golf professionals throughout the state and promotes the game through programs, tournaments, and junior golf initiatives.

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Vermont State Women's Golf Association

Dedicated to promoting women's golf throughout Vermont. Organizes tournaments, championships, and events for female golfers of all skill levels.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Green Mountain National Golf Course in Killington is consistently voted as the #1 public golf course in Vermont. This pristine championship course features 18 holes immersed in the Green Mountains with spectacular views and challenging layouts. Located 2 miles north of Route 4 on Route 100, it offers a true championship test.

Other top-rated public courses include Jay Peak Golf Course (#2 in Vermont by Golf Digest, stretching nearly 7,000 yards), Mountain Course at Spruce Peak in Stowe (#1 by Golf Advisor, elevation 1,800+ feet), and Okemo Valley Golf Club (named best public course by Golf Digest in 2016).

Vermont's golf season typically runs from late spring (May) through early fall (October), weather permitting. Most courses open in May once snow melts and ground conditions allow, then close in late October or early November as winter approaches.

Peak season is June through September with the best weather and course conditions. Spring rates (opening day through late May) offer lower prices at resort courses like Sugarbush. Many courses are open 7 days a week from April to November, though small-town courses may have limited hours or operate seasonally.

Fall foliage golf in late September is spectacular but requires advance reservations. Most courses close for winter (November-April) due to snow cover.

Vermont golf rates vary widely based on course quality, season, and time of day:

  • Peak season greens fees: $70+ at championship public courses, reaching $80-$120+ at premier resort courses like Stratton Mountain, Stowe Spruce Peak, and Mount Snow
  • Standard public courses: $40-$70 for 18 holes during peak season
  • 9-hole courses: $25-$40, offering budget-friendly options
  • Cart rentals: Typically $15 for 9 holes, $20 for 18 holes
  • Twilight rates: More affordable late-afternoon pricing
  • Spring/fall rates: Lower than peak summer prices

Vermont residents enjoy special rates at many courses. For example, Jay Peak offers Vermont residents a Full Privilege Adult membership for $899, which is $200 less than non-resident rates.

Resort packages combining golf and lodging at places like Okemo, Stratton, and Killington offer better value than paying separately.

Vermont's fall foliage golf is legendary. The best courses for autumn colors include:

  • Country Club of Vermont (Waterbury): Fescue and views of Worcester and Mansfield mountain ranges offer stunning color combinations
  • Jay Peak Resort: Leaves change here before anywhere else in Vermont, making it ideal for early fall golf
  • Rutland Country Club: Back tee boxes on holes 14 and 17 provide enhanced foliage views
  • Basin Harbor Golf Club (Vergennes): Vibrant hues reflected off Lake Champlain for picturesque views
  • Golf Club at Equinox (Manchester): Nestled in Green Mountains beneath Mount Equinox, guaranteed spectacular fall views
  • Mountain Course at Spruce Peak (Stowe): Elevation over 1,800 feet with 360-degree mountain foliage views

Best timing: Late September is optimal for seeing Vermont's vibrant reds, golds, and oranges. Book tee times well in advance for fall foliage weekends.

Vermont has 63+ golf courses according to the Vermont Golf Association, which represents nearly 11,000 golfers across these clubs. The state offers a mix of:

  • 18-hole championship courses: Approximately 46 courses including resort, public, and private facilities
  • 9-hole courses: 17 courses offering shorter, more affordable golf
  • Resort courses: 8+ courses at ski resorts including Stratton (27 holes), Okemo (36 holes), Stowe, Mount Snow, Killington, and Jay Peak
  • Historic courses: Dating back to 1886 (Dorset Field Club, oldest in U.S.)
  • Public courses: Majority accessible to visitors
  • Private clubs: Including top-rated Ekwanok, Burlington CC, and Country Club of Vermont

GolfPass reports 75 courses in Vermont with 1,471 reviews, suggesting even more courses when counting driving ranges and par-3 courses.

Dorset Field Club in Dorset, Vermont is the oldest continuously operated golf course in the United States, opening in 1886. Originally named Dorset Golf Links, the course was first laid out by a group of golfers who spent their summers in Dorset.

For many years it remained a 9-hole course, but in 1999, Vermont designer Steve Durkee completed a major project expanding it to 18 holes. The course now measures 6,240 yards and features tight landing areas, fescue grasses, and quick, undulating greens that challenge golfers while preserving its historic character.

Other historic Vermont courses include Ekwanok Country Club (established 1899, designed by Walter Travis, opened 1900 as first U.S. 18-hole course to rival UK courses) and Rutland Country Club (established 1901, converted to 18 holes in 1927 by Stiles and Van Kleek).

Several Vermont resorts offer excellent "Stay and Play" golf packages combining championship golf with quality accommodations:

  • Okemo Mountain Resort: 36 holes of championship golf (Okemo Valley + Tater Hill), eight different lodging options, named best public course by Golf Digest 2016
  • Stratton Mountain Resort: 27 holes (Forest, Lake, Mountain nines) designed by Geoffrey Cornish, founded by Arnold Palmer 1969, top resort course in New England
  • Stowe/Spruce Peak: Mountain Course at Spruce Peak rated #1 in Vermont by Golf Advisor, elevation 1,800+ feet, luxury accommodations
  • Mount Snow: Top 10 resort course in country by SKI Magazine, top 5 in state by Golf Digest, full resort amenities
  • Equinox Resort (Manchester): Historic luxury resort, Golf Club at Equinox (1927 Walter Travis design), Gleneagles course
  • Killington Resort: Multiple courses in area including Green Mountain National (#1 public in VT), resort facilities
  • Jay Peak Resort: #2 course in Vermont, nearly 7,000 yards, membership and day rates

Most resorts offer online booking through their websites with various package options for weekends, midweek, or extended stays.

Yes, Burlington Country Club in South Burlington is a Donald Ross design. Located next to the University of Vermont campus, the course underwent comprehensive restoration by Dr. Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry in the late 1990s to preserve and enhance Ross's original design intent.

Donald James Ross (1872-1948) was a Scottish professional golfer and one of golf's greatest course designers. Between 1912 and 1948, Ross designed 413 golf courses in North America (397 in the U.S., 14 in Canada, and 2 in Cuba) and was considered America's best-known and most active architect during this period.

While Burlington Country Club is the primary Donald Ross design in Vermont, the state features other historic architects including Walter Travis at Ekwanok Country Club and Golf Club at Equinox, Wayne Stiles and John Van Kleek at Rutland Country Club, and Geoffrey Cornish at Stratton Mountain.

Yes, most Vermont golf courses welcome non-resident golfers:

  • Public courses like Green Mountain National, Jay Peak, Vermont National, Mount Snow, and Okemo Valley are fully open to visitors with tee time reservations
  • Resort courses at Stratton, Stowe, Killington, and other ski areas actively market to tourists and traveling golfers
  • Semi-private courses like Rutland Country Club and Crown Point offer public tee times alongside member play
  • Private clubs like Ekwanok, Burlington Country Club, and Country Club of Vermont generally require membership or reciprocal agreements with other private clubs

Vermont resident rates: Many courses offer discounted rates for Vermont residents. For example, Jay Peak charges Vermont residents $899 for full privilege membership versus higher rates for non-residents (saving $200). However, non-residents can still play these courses by paying higher day rates or purchasing season passes.

Booking: Non-residents should book tee times in advance, especially for peak summer weekends and fall foliage season (late September). Most courses accept online reservations through their websites or services like GolfNow and TeeOff.

Vermont mountain golf offers spectacular scenery but presents unique challenges:

Elevation Effects:

  • Courses like Spruce Peak reach elevations over 1,800 feet
  • Ball travels 5-10% farther in thinner mountain air - adjust club selection
  • Downhill holes play significantly longer than yardage suggests

Weather Considerations:

  • Mountain weather changes quickly - bring rain gear and extra layers
  • Temperatures can be 10-15Β°F cooler than valleys
  • Wind is more prevalent on mountain courses
  • Morning fog common in valleys, clears by mid-morning

Course Characteristics:

  • Significant elevation changes between holes
  • Blind shots over hills (like Ekwanok's famous par-5 seventh)
  • Fast-draining conditions, firm fairways
  • Spectacular 360-degree mountain views as compensation

Top Mountain Courses: Spruce Peak (Stowe), Jay Peak, Mount Snow, Green Mountain National (Killington), Stratton Mountain, Country Club of Vermont - all offer true mountain golf experiences with challenging layouts and unforgettable scenery.

See Also:

USA Golf: USA Golf Sites. Associations, Education, Juniors, News (Golf), Pro Players, Professional Golf, Seniors, Women's Golf

Last updated on November 24, 2025