From mountains and canyons to lakes and meadows, Salt Lake City, Utah, is home to a variety of beautiful golfing experiences that are easily accessible to U of U students. Whether you’re an accomplished golfer with a low handicap or someone who is just learning the game, Utah’s golf scene is the perfect place to be as a college student.

It’s nearly impossible to highlight every course within a reasonable driving distance of campus. And while you can’t go wrong, there are a handful of indispensable courses highlighted below.

Soldier Hollow, Midway, Utah

Soldier Hollow is home to two 18-hole courses, the gold and silver. While you can’t go wrong with either, Golf Digest ranks the Gold Course as the number 14 course in the state. Considering the list ahead of spot 14 is primarily made up of private courses and trips down to southern Utah, Soldier Hollow is one of the best there is when it comes to public golf.

At a 51-minute drive from President’s Circle, Soldier Hollow is the farthest commute on the list, but the scenic views and well-kept course make it all worth it. Plus, the beautiful canyon drives aren’t too bad either. There’s a reason both courses have become the favorites for many golfers in the Salt Lake area.

Mountain Dell, Salt Lake City, Utah

Mountain Dell, just like Soldier Hollow, is home to two 18-hole courses, the Lake and the Canyon. Situated just 15 minutes away from campus, Mountain Dell has everything you could ask for as a golfer looking for scenery. Located up Parley’s Canyon, the course is home to rustic mountain views and roaming wildlife.

The Canyon course provides more of a straightforward feel with longer holes and an open landscape. The Lake, on the other hand, is a much more technical course. With rugged terrain and steep elevation changes, this course plays as a high-risk, high-reward round.

Bonneville, Salt Lake City, Utah

Bonneville is a staple for golfers attending the U. It’s the closest course to campus, at a three-minute drive and 11-minute walk, but its proximity to downtown doesn’t disrupt the peaceful views and nature that it has to offer. Bonneville plays as a more traditional golf course. The 18-hole, par 72 course is over 100 years old, and seems to be the most popular destination for golfers in the downtown area.

It is difficult at times to successfully book a tee-time, but the hot summer months tend to clear things up for those who are willing to brave the elements. Bonneville is the go-to for most Utah students who are looking to get a quick round in.

Wasatch Mountain, Heber Valley, Utah

Wasatch Mountain is a must-play golf course. While it’s a stunning course year-round, playing in the fall takes it to a whole other level. With fairways surrounded by trees, players are immersed in the changing colors during their rounds on a nicely manicured course.

A 47-minute drive isn’t the closest there is to the U, but the opportunity to play in September or October is one that every student should take advantage of.

Overall, Utah is home to phenomenal golf. With such proximity to a wide variety of courses and nature, the University of Utah provides an opportunity for students to improve their skills on the links while taking a break from the classrooms.

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