Attractions in the Smoky Mountains

On top of all the fun and exciting attractions in the Smoky Mountains there is definitely a small secret not many people know anything about...golfing. Of course there are plenty of miniature golf courses, but I am talking about real golfing. You know, the kind the professionals enjoy. There are many people (with the exception of the avid golfers) that do not know that the Smoky Mountains are home to many beautiful golf courses. Admit it, when you think of golfing you usually think of sunny locations like Florida, South Carolina and even Hawaii. Well, now you are going to have one more location that may be a little bit closer to home that offers the same type of first-class golf courses. There are several courses in the area to choose from while enjoying a vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains. These courses are going to be listed below with a brief overview of what to expect while visiting the course.

1. Bent Creek Golf Course - This golf course is a special one that was designed by three time Masters and British Open Championship Winner, Gary Player. This course is a par 72 course that opened in 1972. At Bent Creek you will get a taste of the valley scenery on the front nine while the back nine provides challenging courses on the mountainside. With a stream running through this golf course the Bent Creek Golf Course was rated one of the top fifty golf courses in the south by the Southern Living Travel Guide.

2. Gatlinburg Municipal Golf Course - This is the Smoky Mountain area's most unique golf course. Located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains this is a course to remember with its challenging layout, wooded landscapes and well maintained greens. The Gatlinburg Municipal Golf Course is known for its famous #12, "Sky Hi", that is 194 yards in length and drops to 200 feet and who can forget about the #3, "Long Lane", that is 529-yard par. With many challenges hiding around every corner this golf course is perfect for the adventorous, yet avid golfer in the Smoky Mountain area.

3. Eagle's Landing Golf Course - The City of Sevierville opened this 18-hole golf course in June of 1994 and since its establishment it has become one of the most public golf courses in the state. Eagle's Landing has received a 4-star rating by Golf Digest and in 1995 was nominated as Golf Digest's Best Public Course. The Eagle's Landing Golf Course has a full service practice facility with a driving range, pitching area, practice bunkers and a putting green area.

4. Dandridge Golf & Country Club - One of the first golf courses in the area was this exact golf course and has since developed a strong reputation for a great game of golf. Perfect for anyone from a beginner to a professional. This course was designed by Dan Maples and started out having 18-holes but in 1991 nine more holes were added, which made this a 27-hole golf course. Be careful though because you will not find this golf course right in town. It overlooks the Great Smoky Mountains and Douglas Lake and is about 35 minutes from Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

5. River Islands Golf Club - Voted as one of Golf Digest's Top Ten Tennessee Courses for the 2005-2006 year the River Islands Golf Club is one of Knoxville, Tennessee's most visited and played golf courses. This course opened its doors in 1991 and travels along the edge of the French Broad River with four islands in the middle of river. These islands are the main feature of this golf course. It is definitely one of the top golf courses in the area.

Not enough golf time for you? Well, that is okay. I gave you a list of the top five golf courses in the Smoky Mountain Tennessee area so now I will give you two other golf related activities to enjoy.

1. ERA for MDA Golf Tournament & Live Auction - So, you made a trip to the Bent Creek Gofl Course, as mentioned above, then you might as well take advantage of the ERA for MDA Golf Tournament and Live Auction that is scheduled for the second Wednesday for every year. ERA in the Smokies sponsors the event to help send local children with muscular dystrophy to Camp Discovery. The cost is only $100 and for that you will enjoy an entire day of food and golf. This $100 includes green fees, golf cart rental, a golf shirt, lunch, drinks, dinner and a live auction at the end.

2. Golf Vista - These great condominiums are located across the street from the Gatlinburg Municipal Golf Course. If are planning to play golf there than this is the perfect place for all of your lodging needs. With beautiful and spacious rooms, easy access to town and the golf course and with great mountain views, this is where you will always want to stay.