The latest ranking of Jefferson County golf courses showcases the most challenging venues for golf enthusiasts. Based on the U.S. Golf Association’s course and slope ratings from the toughest men’s tees, the list features 20 local courses of varying difficulty.
Course rating indicates the expected score for a scratch player (Handicap Index of 0.0) under normal playing conditions, according to the USGA.
Leading the pack is Bear Creek Golf Club in Lakewood, securing the coveted top spot with a formidable course rating of 75.2 and a slope rating of 148 for its Black tee. Following closely at No. 2 is Walnut Creek Golf Preserve in Westminster, boasting a course rating of 75.2 and a slope rating of 137 for its “1” tee.
The third position is claimed by The Club at Rolling Hills in Golden, featuring a Black tee with a course rating of 73.7. Rounding out the top five are Whale Rock Country Club Inc. in Morrison and Lakewood Country Club.
For women golfers, the toughest challenges include Walnut Creek Golf Preserve’s “2” tee, which holds a course rating of 78.9. Lakewood Country Club’s Blue tee follows closely with a course rating of 78.
Among the courses on the list, 15 are open to the public, while five operate in private clubs.