Play in the valley

The Flathead Valley is home to golf courses galore and spectacular scenery

The Flathead Valley in northwestern Montana is known locally and internationally for many reasons. The region is a top golf destination with numerous championship golf courses. During the summer, it is typical for the Flathead Valley to have 16 hours of sunlight daily. With nothing but glorious sun-filled days stretching across the summer months, it is no wonder there are excellent golf courses surrounding northwestern Montana. h3. A range of choices Each golf course in Montana is unique, with its own level of playability, mountain views and maturity and charm. Steve Dunfee, the general manager for the Buffalo Hill Golf Course in Kalispell, said this golf course is settled right in the midst of nature and each hole is challenging for different reasons—his two favourite things about the Buffalo Hill course. “(My favourite thing about the golf course is) without a question, the interest of the hole,” said Dunfee, “and what it requires in terms of clubs and shot selection. Also, the beauty of the golf course and where it is located. There is beautiful foliage and the fact that it traverses on three different levels—you have such an incredible amount of views at times—and then you are at a river bottom enjoying the birds chirping, and you just feel like you are away in nature.” h3. Unbelievable views About an hour away from Kalispell, bordering Glacier National Park, is the Glacier View Golf Course that offers stunning views of the park. Al Menke, the pro shop manager for Glacier View Golf Course, said the scenery is unbeatable and there is a wide array of wildlife on and around the golf course. “The best part of the course is the absolutely unbeatable views that we have here,” said Menke. “We look right into the park with all of the majestic views. There is a lot of wildlife in the area—we have elk, deer, bear and raccoons—it is all here and it’s gorgeous.” h3. A vast history If it is a mature course that you are looking for, the Whitefish Lake Golf Club was built in 1929 and Terry Nelson, the executive secretary for the golf course, said it combines traditional golf with a modern approach. “The north is more traditional, while the south is more of a shot-makers course,” said Nelson. “You need varying ability to play all of the holes.”