Golf aficionados will find the Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountain area to be a hidden gem, offering a blend of challenging courses and breathtaking scenery that is truly unique to this region. The rolling fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and expertly crafted holes provide a golfing experience that stands apart from other courses in the Southeast.
Whether you’re visiting Gatlinburg in the Summer or Winter, there are exceptional options for golfers of all skill levels visiting the Gatlinburg area, with courses that are consistently recognized for their beauty, difficulty, and immersive mountain views.
Here, you’ll find a roundup of the top-rated golf courses in Gatlinburg—a must-play list for any golfer seeking a memorable round in the heart of the Smokies.
Nestled against the scenic backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg Golf Course is consistently ranked among the best municipal courses by Golf Digest. Located just five miles from downtown Gatlinburg, this 18-hole gem was designed by renowned architect William B. Langford to seamlessly blend with its natural surroundings, offering a golfing experience that is as challenging as it is picturesque.
This course has undergone major renovations in both 1993 and 2007, during which many greens and fairways were expertly reimagined to enhance playability and highlight the beauty of the Smokies. With its updated design, Gatlinburg Golf Course continues to attract golfers looking for a memorable round set against some of Tennessee’s most breathtaking views.
Rated as one of the “Top Fifty Golf Courses in the South” by Southern Living Travel Guide, Bent Creek Golf Course is a must-visit for both seasoned golfers and beginners alike. Located within the Hilton Grand Vacation Club, this 18-hole course offers a blend of challenging fairways and relaxing natural surroundings, making it ideal for golfers seeking both skill development and scenic beauty.
Bent Creek provides a range of amenities that cater to a premier golfing experience. Highlights include the Creek Side Grill, a relaxing spot for post-game refreshments, a well-maintained putting green, a full-service golf shop stocked with the latest gear, and an expert PGA-certified staff ready to assist.
Whether you’re fine-tuning your swing or just enjoying a leisurely round, Bent Creek is designed to meet the needs of every golfer. For those interested in more outdoor experiences, don’t miss exploring the best hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains nearby.
The Sevierville Golf Club is a cherished destination for both locals and visitors. This club boasts not one but two 18-hole championship courses, each offering its own unique experience. The Highlands course, a par-70, weaves through the rolling mountain foothills and features several freshwater ponds, providing a scenic yet challenging layout. The River course, a par-72, follows the scenic Little Pigeon River, creating an unforgettable backdrop for an exceptional round.
Golfers can enjoy a well-equipped driving range with putting tees, a spacious putting green, and a dedicated chipping area—ideal for refining every aspect of the game. After a round, players can unwind at Mulligan’s, the on-site restaurant, which provides a range of food and dining options to enhance the club experience. For those looking to improve their skills, Sevierville Golf Club also offers individual and group lessons tailored to beginners.
Recognized by Golf Digest as one of Tennessee’s top 10 courses, River Islands Golf Club is a stunningly crafted golf destination located in Kodak, Tennessee, between Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains. Known for its scenic beauty and challenging layout, the course winds along the French Broad River, incorporating three picturesque islands within the river itself, adding a unique element to the golfing experience.
River Islands is renowned as one of the most challenging courses in East Tennessee, with an impressive slope rating of 146 and a course rating of 74.3. For competitive players, the course offers the option to play from the back tees at 7,001 yards, while those preferring a slightly more manageable game can play from the regular tees at 6,300 yards.
If you’re looking to gear up for your next round, Gatlinburg boasts an array of shops offering top-notch equipment, stylish apparel, and expert advice:
After a day spent on one of Gatlinburg’s golf courses, there’s no better way to relax than returning to the comfort and luxury of Elk Springs Resort. Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Elk Springs offers an array of Gatlinburg cabin rentals that are perfect for unwinding, complete with stunning mountain views, private pool cabins, and cozy fireplaces. Whether you’re planning a golfing getaway with friends or a peaceful retreat, these cabins provide the ideal balance of adventure and relaxation.
