Arrowhead | Bear Dance | Fossil Trace | Walnut Creek | TPC Colorado
Arrowhead Golf Club
These days, the Denver area is full of top notch golf courses. 50 years ago, however, things were different. Golf fans – especially Arnold Palmer fans – knew about the thrilling 1960 US Open at Cherry Hills Country Club, but that was probably the highlight. When Arrowhead Golf Club opened in 1972, things started to change.
The first Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Jr. designed club, Arrowhead was built around a phenomenal array of natural rock formations at 6,000 feet of elevation. Originally a homestead with cattle grazing the land in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, the land seemed perfect for a golf course. The area was already a popular one with local outdoor enthusiasts who often visited nearby Roxborough State Park for hiking.
When the Jones’ went to work on the 6,636 yard, par-70 course, they had plenty of unique features to work with. Throughout the course, but especially on the back nine, red rock formations provide backdrops, obstacles, and a true escape from the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan area. The design doesn’t just include the rocks, but it also uses the region’s native vegetation to naturally tie the sandstone into the scenery. Nothing feels forced.
“Arrowhead is a unique opportunity to feel disconnected from the urban landscape and enjoy a half day surrounded by landscapes rarely found on the planet,” said the club’s General Manager, Charles Packard.
There are several holes that would be a signature hole on just about any other golf course, but for Arrowhead the signature hole is 13th, a 171-yard downhill par three. Playing through two massive rock formations, the hole represents everything the course has to offer. In addition to the rocks, an impressive bluff stands guard in the background, towering over a pond that you’ll have to deal with later.
Just a few holes later, players get a spectacular view of downtown Denver as they start to make their way back to the clubhouse. The par five 16th is the longest hole on the course but rewards players with the view and an excellent chance at birdie.
In addition to the course and its expansive practice facilities, Arrowhead is home to amenities you’re likely to find only at the most exclusive clubs. The clubhouse serves as a popular place for business functions and weddings, and offers fine dining with panoramic views on a daily basis. The golf shop has everything you need to enjoy and remember a round of golf at Arrowhead.
Since its opening, Arrowhead has been a favorite with both locals and tourists. Arrowhead is one of the top 10 most-photographed golf courses in the world, has been voted the #1 public golf course in the Denver area, as well as one of America’s “Top 75 Public Courses” by Golf Digest. Arrowhead serves as truly the golf experience of a lifetime.