From lake to links

Put some drive in your Lake Koocanusa vacation this summer by visiting the area’s many golf courses

Lake Koocanusa is the ideal spot for vacationers to spend some time with the family, splashing in the water and enjoying the myriad of outdoor activities this area has to offer. Swimming, boating and fishing are for obvious reasons at the top of the list of things to do here. But if you’re planning a vacation at Lake Koocanusa, make sure you bring your clubs, because it is centrally located to some of the finest golf courses in the area.

Scenic and playable

Only 20 minutes from the shores of Lake Koocanusa is the town of Fernie and the Fernie Golf and Country Club. This 18-hole championship course is suitable for experts as well as beginners, and it features immaculate greens, stunning scenery and all the amenities to make your game unforgettable. Plus, if you’re golfing in the late afternoon to early evening, you may even catch a glimpse of the famous Ghostrider shadow on the face of Mt. Hosmer.

Charming and challenging

Head north of Lake Koocanusa and you can discover the Will-O-Bend golf course in Jaffray. Located right off Highway 3/93, this nine-hole executive par 4 offers a challenging layout with water hazards coming into play along six fairways. After your game, be sure to visit the clubhouse, where you can have a meal, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and take in views of the mountains from an outdoor patio. Although this course is easily walkable, Will-O-Bend offers cart rentals as well.

Laid-back and friendly

For a taste of the golf scene in northwest Montana, bring your passport and cross the Canada/U.S. border at Roosville to visit the Indian Springs Ranch. Located just before Eureka, this 18-hole links-style course features a laid-back atmosphere, with tee times typically spaced at 15-minute intervals. Play a round, or spend some time sharpening up your skills on the driving range or practice putting green. Also, visit the pro shop to get tips from the staff and purchase golf equipment, merchandise or hot and cold beverages.