SOUTHERN HILLS GOLF COURSE

BY TIM POTTS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Tucked within the contours of the Black Hills, the Southern Hills Golf Course is an 18hole municipal course offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience.

Situated within the Spearfish Formation, the bright colors of the fairways, greens and ponderosa pine contrast wonderfully with red rock canyons and blue South Dakota skies. Originally designed as a nine-hole course, Southern Hills expanded to 18 holes to become a premier public golf destination for the experienced and recreational golfer alike. Both nine-hole sides boast a par 35. The front nine spans 2,969 yards off the longest tees. The back nine covers 2,936 yards.

“With all of the moisture this winter, we had a late opening on April 1, but the course is going to be in great shape,” said PJ Wetzel, Southern Hills Golf Course operations manager. Golfers will likely see mule deer, wild turkey, and cottontail rabbits. A red fox has also made an occasional appearance.

Jason Happe, Southern Hills Golf Course general manager said number 10 and number 11 are the course’s signature holes.

Number 10 is a 147-yard, par-3 hole featuring a water hazard between the tee box and green.

The 11th hole contains a ravine in front of the green. Number 11 measures 338 yards from the longest tees, and it is a par 4.

Boasting over 380 feet of elevation change, including one par 3 with a 35 foot tee to green difference, Southern Hills Golf Course offers a challenge, but also rewards players with its natural beauty and seamless integration into the local topography. The course conditions should be excellent this year due to an increase in maintenance schedules, and good weather.

“We have very affordable rates and premiere golf. Easy online or by app tee time booking at hotspringssdgolf.com, and lots of availability walk-ins are always welcome,” said Wetzel.

With five different teeing areas, including junior tees, all levels of players can enjoy our unforgettable course.

Southern Hills Golf Course is a rewarding, yet sometimes challenging course.

It is recommended that golfers play from the appropriate tees to ensure they experience the most