Fall is a wonderful time to play golf in Southern Idaho – the days are sunny and warm in the afternoon, and the fall colors create a scenic backdrop against the emerald-green fairways and greens.
Local golf pros report that savvy golfers from Ketchum/Sun Valley, Eastern Idaho, Northern Utah and SW Idaho are flocking to the golf courses in Southern Idaho, taking advantage of the nice weather.
You can choose from playing golf in the yawning Snake River canyon, with fetching views of rock cliffs and waterfalls by Canyon Springs Golf Course, golfing next to the Snake River at River’s Edge or Clear Lake Country Club, or playing in more open settings at the 93 Golf Ranch, Pleasant Valley, Twin Falls Municipal, and Gooding Golf Course.
Winter rates have already kicked in at some courses and others will be starting after early to mid-November. Check with your favorite course before you go. But rest assured, the golf values in Southern Idaho can not be beat, with 18-hole rates in the $20-$30 range, and 9-hole rates even lower.
- Clear Lake Country Club on the Snake River in Buhl – Winter rates have already kicked in — $26 for 18 holes and $30 on weekends. Fly fishing in the ponds is closed for the season. Clear Lake is open 7 days a week, year-round weather-permitting. More information: 208-543-4849.
- River’s Edge Golf Club on the Snake River in Burley – Winter rates begin in mid-November, offering greens fees of $17 for 18 holes, $29 with a cart, and $12 for 9 holes, $18 with a cart. Check online for more deals. More information: 208-878-9807.
- Canyon Springs Golf Course in the Snake River canyon in Twin Falls – Winter rates haven’t kicked in yet, but if you play after 2 p.m. on weekends, you’ll get an extra $2 off. Greens fees are $28 for 18 holes on weekends, and $25 on weekdays. For 9 holes, you can play for $12 during the week, and $15 on weekends. Canyon Springs is open 7 days a week, year-round, weather permitting. More information: 208-734-7609.
- Jerome Country Club – is open to the public, but members pay reduced rates. The tree-lined course has 18 holes. It has a reputation as being a well-kept secret. Greens fees are $35 for 18 holes on weekdays and $37.50 on weekends. Carts are $13.50 per rider.
- 93 Golf Ranch in Jerome – Play the longest 18-hole course in Southern Idaho! Greens fees are $30 for 18 holes on weekends and $27 on weekdays. Check online for additional rates and deals. 93 Golf Ranch is open 7 days a week, year-round, weather permitting. More information: 208-324-9693.
- Gooding Golf Course and Country Club – Located in Gooding, the 9-hole course has alternative tees for an 18-hole experience. Greens fees are $13 on weekdays for 9 holes, and $18 for 18. On weekends, it’s $16 for 9 holes, and $22 for 18. Carts are $7 for 9 holes, $13 for 18.
- Twin Falls Municipal Golf Course – Winter rates start on Nov. 1. Greens fees until then are $24 for adults, and $10 for juniors. Add $14 for a cart for 18. Twin Falls has other deals available. More information: 208-733-3326.
- Pleasant Valley Golf Course in Kimberly – Winter hours are kicking in, with golf available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting. If the weather is nice, the 9-hole course might be open during the week! The cost is $15 for 9 holes. Call ahead before you go: 208-423-5800.
FYI – Jackpot Golf Club in Jackpot, Nev. is open through Oct. 31. They charge $27 for 18 holes and $22 for 9 holes during the week, and $49 to play 18 with a cart on weekends, and $25 for nine. Carts are required on weekends to speed up play. For more information, call 775-755-2260.