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Course Report
Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain is one of five Jack Nicklaus-designed Bear Trace courses in Tennessee and was named one of the Top Ten You Can Play in North America by Golf Magazine.
About
Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is an 18-hole public course on Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau. Known for its scenic elevation changes, brooks, and mature pines, this par 72 layout offers golfers a diverse playing experience and is recognized among the state’s top ten public courses.
Caddie Tip
On the front nine, local caddies often recommend laying up short of creeks on strategic holes. Take note especially on number 7: use enough club to clear the brook and leave an optimal angle into the flagstone-protected green. Excellent course management is more important here than raw distance.
The Main Challenge
The toughest challenge is dealing with frequent elevation changes, narrow fairways lined with mature pines, and numerous brooks that require careful club selection. Water comes into play on multiple holes, and strategic decision-making is required on almost every tee shot.
The Good
Golfers love the combination of elevation changes, mature pine forests, and natural water features that make the course both beautiful and strategically engaging. The peaceful mountain setting combined with a Jack Nicklaus design makes for a memorable experience that exceeds expectations for a public course.
The Not So Good
Players occasionally criticize inconsistent fairway and green conditions, especially in late summer; some expect better maintenance for the fees. Others wish for more food and beverage service variety at the clubhouse or improved pace of play during peak times.
Signature Hole:
#
7
The signature 7th hole is a 393-yard par 4 featuring a striking approach over layered flagstone protecting the green. Its natural setting highlights the region’s stone and wooded beauty, and the elevated tee shot and layered green complex combine to offer a memorable challenge for any golfer.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse features a well-stocked pro shop with apparel and equipment, an outdoor patio, locker rooms, and basic snack bar service. Friendly staff provide full-service check-in and golf cart rentals. The facility is known for its welcoming atmosphere and practical amenities.
Practice Facilities
Bear Trace offers a well-kept driving range, large putting green, and a dedicated short game area. There is enough space to warm up fully and work on all aspects of your game before your round. Facilities are modern, clean, and conveniently located close to the first tee.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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