Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Tennessee, the Smoky Mountains offer more than just stunning views—they’re home to some of the most inviting public golf courses in the region. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual weekend player, knowing where to book your next tee time can transform an ordinary round into an unforgettable experience. In this listicle, we’ve rounded up 10 must-visit public golf courses that showcase the best of Smoky Mountain golfing. From challenging fairways to scenic backdrops, discover the spots where every swing is paired with nature’s finest. Dive in to find the perfect tee times for your next Tennessee golf adventure!
1) Cherokee National Golf Club – Nestled in the foothills of the Smokies, this course offers stunning mountain views and a challenging layout for golfers of all skill levels
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, this golf club is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a blend of natural beauty and a stimulating round of golf. Players navigate a thoughtfully designed layout that tests accuracy and strategy without overwhelming beginners. The elevation changes and tree-lined fairways add character to every hole, ensuring a captivating experience. Whether you’re teeing off at dawn to catch the mist hanging over the hills or winding down your day under the glow of a mountain sunset, the views alone justify a visit.
Beyond the course itself, the club offers a range of amenities designed to enhance your day on the green:
- Practice Facilities: A well-equipped driving range, putting greens, and short game areas help sharpen your skills.
- Pro Shop: Stocked with the latest gear and apparel, plus expert advice from the staff.
- Clubhouse Dining: Enjoy locally inspired fare and refreshing drinks overlooking the spectacular scenery.
2) Gatlinburg Golf Club – Featuring two distinct nine-hole courses with breathtaking panoramic views, Gatlinburg Golf Club is perfect for a relaxing day on the green
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, this golf club offers a truly unique experience with its two distinct nine-hole layouts: the Highlands Course and the Valley Course. Each offers a different challenge and aesthetic, from sweeping mountain vistas to serene wooded landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a casual player, you’ll appreciate how the design subtly tests your skill without feeling overwhelming. The courses are impeccably maintained, ensuring every swing is met with perfectly manicured fairways and greens.
Beyond the challenging play, the club’s panoramic views redefine what it means to have a day out on the green. Imagine teeing off with endless mountain ridges as your backdrop, where every hole invites a moment to pause and soak in nature’s artistry. The club also boasts amenities like a well-stocked pro shop, friendly staff, and a welcoming clubhouse perfect for relaxing after your round. Perfectly blending scenic beauty with thoughtful course design, this golf club guarantees a memorable and refreshing Smoky Mountain retreat.
3) Bear Trace – Designed by PGA legend Jack Nicklaus, Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain marries championship‑caliber shotmaking with the rugged beauty of Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau.
Here, tree‑lined fairways weave through rolling terrain, and elevated tees reveal long views over ridges and valleys that change character with every season. Thoughtful bunkering and contouring invite golfers to shape shots, rewarding both power and precision while keeping the experience welcoming for a wide range of handicaps.
⛳ Bogey Golf AI For The Win!
Personalized golf trip itineraries in seconds.
Golf Trip Planner
Your Next Golf Getaway
Curated by Bogey Golf AI
What makes this course stand out?
-
Crafted to flow with the existing landscape, highlighting native hardwoods, rock outcroppings, and natural elevation changes.
-
Features greens that favor smart angles and confident putting, turning club selection and trajectory into key strategic choices.
-
Blends demanding approach shots with forgiving landing areas, creating a layout that challenges experienced players yet remains playable for newer golfers.
-
Well‑maintained practice areas and a warm, lodge‑style clubhouse make it easy to linger before and after the round, soaking in the setting as much as the golf.
4) Fairfield Glade Golf Course – Located just outside the Smokies, this public course boasts well-manicured fairways and lakeside holes that demand precision
Fairfield Glade Golf Course is a gem nestled just a short drive from the Smoky Mountains, offering golfers a serene landscape blended with challenging play. The course is renowned for its meticulously maintained fairways that stretch invitingly between vivid greens and sparkling water features. Each hole requires a strategic approach, especially those that hug the lakeside, where the slightest miscalculation can send your ball skimming the water. This blend of beauty and difficulty makes it a favorite for players seeking both relaxation and a test of skill.
The course caters to all levels, from beginners eager to enjoy the scenery to seasoned golfers eyeing their next birdie. Amenities include:
- Practice putting and chipping greens
- A fully stocked pro shop with the latest gear
- Comfortable clubhouse with dining and rental options
- Scenic walking paths that double as nature trails
Whether you choose to walk the verdant greens or take a cart, the course's layout encourages careful consideration of each shot, especially around the lakefront hazards. It’s not just a game—it’s an experience woven into the natural beauty just outside the Smokies.
5) Sevierville Golf Club – With tree-lined fairways and rolling terrain, this course offers both challenge and charm amid the peaceful Smoky Mountain surroundings
Set against the serene backdrop of the Smoky Mountains, this course is a true gem for golfers seeking a blend of natural beauty and a strategic challenge. The tree-lined fairways demand precise shot placement, while the gentle rolling hills add an extra layer of complexity to each hole. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, the varied terrain keeps every round interesting, rewarding accuracy and thoughtful club selection.
- Signature Hole: The par-4 7th, with a narrow fairway framed by towering pines and a tricky green protected by bunkers.
- Course Amenities: Modern clubhouse, pro shop, range facilities, and friendly staff eager to assist.
- Pro Tip: Keep your drives centered to avoid the dense woods and watch for subtle slopes around the greens.
6) Bent Creek Golf Village – A newer addition to the region, Bent Creek impresses with modern amenities and a course design that blends naturally with the landscape
Nestled amid the rolling hills of Tennessee, this golf village emerges as a shining example of how modern design meets natural beauty. The course layout thoughtfully contours to the existing landscape, offering golfers sweeping views without sacrificing the challenge of play. Each hole feels unique yet connected, providing an immersive experience whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual player. The fairways are trimmed to perfection, bordered by native trees and gentle streams that require strategic navigation rather than brute force, making every shot a deliberate choice.
Beyond the greens, the club's amenities elevate the overall experience to one of comfort and sophistication. Facilities include:
- State-of-the-art practice areas with high-tech swing analysis
- A fully stocked pro shop featuring the latest gear
- Spacious clubhouse with dining options highlighting local flavors
- Friendly staff focused on personalized service
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills or relax after a round, the environment here encourages both. It’s a fresh, contemporary take on traditional golf, making it an essential stop on your Tennessee golfing itinerary.
7) Twin Eagles Golf Club – This scenic course features varied elevation and lush greens, providing a rewarding round for players seeking a scenic Smoky Mountain retreat
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Smoky Mountains, this course invites golfers to embrace both challenge and beauty. The varied elevation shifts keep every hole interesting, demanding strategic club selection and precise shot-making. Each swing offers not just the pursuit of a perfect score but an immersive experience through rolling hills, dense woodlands, and serene water features that reflect the ever-changing sky.
⛳ Bogey Golf AI For The Win!
Personalized golf trip itineraries in seconds.
Golf Trip Planner
Your Next Golf Getaway
Curated by Bogey Golf AI
Players can expect:
- Well-manicured greens: Fast and true, perfect for testing your putting skills.
- Scenic vistas: Majestic mountain views that serve as the ever-present backdrop.
- Natural obstacles: Strategically placed bunkers and streams challenge your game while enhancing the environment.
8) MeadowView Golf Course – Located near the Tennessee-Kentucky border, MeadowView welcomes golfers with wide fairways and a tranquil setting ideal for unwinding
Set against the serene backdrop where Tennessee gently meets Kentucky, this course is a haven for golfers seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. With its expansive, wide fairways, players of all skill levels can enjoy a less intimidating game, focusing more on precision and strategy than sheer power. The tranquil setting, dotted with native trees and rolling landscapes, creates an atmosphere that soothes the soul and sharpens your focus with every swing.
What makes this course truly stand out is its harmonious blend of challenge and relaxation. From the well-maintained greens to the thoughtfully designed hazards, every hole presents a unique opportunity to test your skills while soaking in the natural beauty. Visitors frequently praise the hospitality and well-kept facilities that elevate the overall experience. Key features include:
- Generous landing areas perfect for developing your shot accuracy
- Multiple tee boxes accommodating beginners to seasoned players
- Scenic views that encourage a leisurely pace and appreciation of the outdoors
9) Black Bear Golf Course – Known for its friendly atmosphere and beautiful mountain backdrop, this course is a favorite among locals and visitors alike
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Smoky Mountains, this golf course effortlessly blends natural beauty with a welcoming, down-to-earth vibe. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or picking up a club for the first time, the course offers a diverse layout that challenges your skills while keeping the experience fun and engaging. The lush greens and strategically placed bunkers demand thoughtful shots, making every hole memorable. But what truly sets this course apart is the warm community spirit—locals and visitors often find themselves exchanging stories and tips, creating a friendly and inclusive environment.
Beyond the greens, the amenities cater to every golfer’s needs, including a well-stocked pro shop and a cozy clubhouse where you can unwind and enjoy panoramic mountain views. Planning a visit? Here’s a quick glance at what to expect:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Type | 18-hole public |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate with varied terrain |
| Special Perks | Friendly local tournaments, scenic rest spots |
| Nearby Attractions | Hiking trails, mountain vistas |
- Walking Friendly: Ideal for those who enjoy a leisurely pace with nature.
- Family-Oriented: Junior clinics and family tee times available.
- Clubhouse Cuisine: Local flavors to complement your round.
10) Newfound Gap Golf Course – Offering a unique mountain golfing experience, Newfound Gap challenges players with its high elevation and stunning vistas
Perched high in the Smoky Mountains, this course brings a fresh twist to traditional golf by infusing the game with the exhilarating challenge of elevation. Every swing here requires a touch more calculation—balls travel differently, shots demand adjustments, and the air’s crispness adds a layer of complexity rarely encountered on flatter grounds. But it’s not just a test of skill; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur, where each hole frames breathtaking panoramas of fog-draped peaks and verdant forests that seem to stretch endlessly.
Beyond the course’s unique physical demands, players can enjoy:
- Scenic Rest Spots: Strategically placed benches and viewing areas perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the views.
- Wildlife Encounters: Occasional visits from deer and native bird species add a touch of magic to your round.
- Local Refreshments: A charming clubhouse offering regional snacks and drinks, ideal for recharging after your game.
To Wrap It Up
Whether you’re chasing the sunrise over misty peaks or savoring the crisp mountain air on a perfect afternoon, the Smoky Mountains offer more than just breathtaking views—they provide unforgettable fairways that every golfer should experience. These 10 public golf courses in Tennessee capture the spirit of the region, blending challenging play with natural beauty. So grab your clubs, book your tee time, and get ready to make memories on greens where the mountains meet the sky. Your next great round awaits just beyond the horizon.
