Estes Park Golf Courses & SRA Social Play

Estes Park 18-Hole Course

Nestled in a mountain valley at 7,500 ft with Longs Peak looming, this par-72, 6,727-yard municipal gem (opened 1960, expanded 1995) winds through pine forests, elk meadows, and the Big Thompson River. Fairways roll like green carpets; elevated tees demand precision over power. Signature Hole 7: a reachable par-5 where the old ranger cabin (now snack shack) guards the green.

Every Wednesday in summer, the SRA Social Club storms in—for “Ranger’s Revenge” tee times. No handicaps required, just post-round patio stories suggested.

Estes Park 9-Hole Course

Just across the lake, this par-35, 2,873-yard layout (built 1936) is pure mountain charm: tight, tree-lined fairways, punchbowl greens, and views that make triple-bogeys forgivable. Hole 3’s par-3 over water is infamous for “feeding the phantom elk.” Perfect for a 90-minute sunset loop.

Every Friday, the SRA crew downsizes to 9 : quick laughs, sunset cart parades, and the mandatory mountain-facing toast after the 9th—“To shanks and survival!”—before beers and elk burgers at the clubhouse.