SPEARFISH CANYON GOLF CLUB enhances services

BY JASON GROSS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spearfish Canyon Golf Club has served as the Northern Hills’ first 18-hole golf course since its expansion in 1988. This course includes a driving range and practice facilities on the property.

The entrance is on the turnoff into Spearfish Canyon, just off of Colorado Boulevard.

Ponderosa pine, oak, and Black Hills spruce trees surround the par-36 back nine which measures 3,225 yards off the longest tee and 2,086 yards off the shortest tee.

The back nine opened shortly after the club was established in 1921. This was the front nine for many years, but is now the back nine after an extensive renovation that began in 2018, at some of the holes.

Golfers check in at the clubhouse and navigate a tunnel under Colorado Boulevard to reach the front nine on the north side of the road, and they will start there unless maintenance issues dictate otherwise.

Rolling hills and large greens are featured on the par-36 front nine section. The total distance measures

3,519 yards from the longest tees and 2,471 yards off the shortest tees.

Front-nine distances from the longest tees range from 187 yards on the par-3, 11th hole (163 yards off the shortest tee); to 564 yards off the par-5, third hole (385 yards off the shortest tee).

Distances from the longest tees of the back nine range from 132 yards off the par3, 11th hole (87 yards off the shortest tee) to 561 yards off the par-5, 18th hole (364 yards off the shortest tee).

Number 17 is regarded as the course’s signature hole because of the scenery.

This 183-yard, par-3 hole (112 yards off the shortest tee) includes a prominent view of Spearfish Canyon.

Holes 10 through 15 on the back nine have changed from past years. Spearfish Canyon Golf Club General Manager Rob Kortan said four new greens were built, with two of the older greens still being used.

“Three of the new four greens are a little bit larger on average than what we had,” Kortan said.

Work on realigning the holes and the creation of the new driving range began right after Thanksgiving 2018.

This project was completed in 2020. Course improvements and the driving range were formally dedicated in midJune that year.

Kortan said the driving range has improved the functionality of the course. He added it is easier to control what is happening.

“The person who values the ability to practice would certainly think that would be a huge improvement,” Kortan said. He added those who simply play would place more importance on the new holes.

The full-length driving range spans 300-340 yards from the tees. Kortan said the tee box is roughly 200 feet wide, with industry standards calling for 10-12 feet per station.

What about the golfer who is deciding whether to try Spearfish Canyon Golf Course? Kortan pointed to the 18-hole course as an asset, and cited other factors.

“We have an excellent level of service,” Kortan said. “We treat our customers with gratitude and respect. We have a restaurant and bar which possesses a full liquor license, serves top-notch cuisine, and offers excellent service.

“Course conditions have drawn praise from many golfers,” Kortan said.

He added that practice ranges and greens are offered, along with club fitting, lessons, and a fully stocked pro shop.

Guest fees from Monday through Thursday during open to twilight hours are $89 for 18 holes, and $59 for nine holes with cart. Twilight rates (beginning about three hours before dark) are $49 for unlimited play. Those rates include golf cart and tax.

Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and holiday guest rates during open to twilight hours are $99 for 18 holes and $59 for nine holes. Twilight rates are $45 for 18 holes and $45 for nine holes. Tax and golf cart are included in all rates. Clubs are available for rent. Fees are $25 for nine holes and $50 for 18 holes.

Driving range fees are $5 for a warm-up basket (35-40 golf balls), $9 for a tune-up basket (70-80 balls), and $17 for a practice basket (150 balls). Call 717-4653 for more information.

BY JASON GROSS BLACK HILLS PIONEER