8.49

The Golf Club at Bear Dance

Course info

ACCESS
Public
EST.
2002
GRASS
Bentgrass
SEASON
April–October
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
150
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Parkland
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10.5
City
Larkspur

Score

8.49
Design
40%
8.3
Conditions
25%
8.3
Desirability
15%
8.2
Scenery
10%
9.1
Fun
5%
8.7
Uniqueness
5%
8.5

Difficulty

Overall
Hard

Slope 135

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10.5

7
15

Walkability Hard

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Low

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
89
$
150
$
215
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

Bear Dance is home to the Colorado Section of the PGA of America and has been awarded as the #1 public course along the Front Range for many consecutive years.

About

The Golf Club at Bear Dance, designed by the team of Craig Stadler, Mac Casper, and Perry Dye, is a highly regarded mountain-style public course near Denver. Set on 753 acres at 6,800 feet elevation, it winds through Ponderosa pines and oak-lined ridges, offering dramatic Rocky Mountain views, challenging bunkers, water features, and a true Colorado golf experience.

Caddie Tip

Bring your accuracy: the tree-lined fairways demand precise tee shots. Avoid being aggressive on tight holes, and respect elevation changes on approaches—club up or down as needed. Don’t get lured into risky plays on short par-4s without a good lie and sightline.

The Main Challenge

The course’s main challenge is its tight, tree-lined fairways and dramatic elevation changes, which test shot placement and club selection. Strategic bunkering and undulating greens require accuracy and a sharp short game. Mountain winds and shifting weather can further complicate club choices and approaches.

The Good

Golfers rave about the stunning mountain setting, elevation changes, and the tranquility provided by its secluded, forested layout. Many love the combination of challenging holes, strong variety, and the feeling of true Colorado mountain golf, especially the breathtaking views throughout the round.

The Not So Good

Some golfers note inconsistent conditions on fairways, particularly during peak summer stress, and have mentioned that pace of play can be slow on busy days without constant marshal management. Better consistency in turf quality would further enhance the experience.

Signature Hole:

#

6

The par-4 6th is the signature hole, offering a risk-reward tee shot with the green reachable for long hitters. A large, paw-shaped bunker guards the green, making for a dramatic approach and punishing misses. Strategy off the tee is crucial to avoid trouble and set up a scoring chance.

Clubhouse

No items found.

The clubhouse features a full-service restaurant with indoor and patio dining, a well-stocked golf shop, locker rooms, event spaces, and friendly service. It caters to both golfers and casual visitors, making it a social hub for the club.

Practice Facilities

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Bear Dance offers an extensive practice area, including a full-size driving range, large putting green, chipping area, and practice bunkers. Facilities allow for thorough warm-up and skill work before the round, and the practice green is known for being particularly quick.

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.

Colorado
U.S.A.