Scenic Golf Course in the Black Hills With National Forest Views
If you are searching for a scenic golf course in the Black Hills that delivers sweeping views of the National Forest, Boulder Canyon Golf Club should be at the top of your list. This 18-hole, par-72 championship course is bounded on all sides by the Black Hills National Forest, giving every fairway and green a backdrop of pine-covered hills, native wildlife, and dramatic rock formations. Located along scenic Highway US 14-A between Deadwood and Sturgis, it is open to the public and welcomes golfers of every skill level. Here is everything you need to know before you book your tee time.
A Golf Course Inside the National Forest
The Black Hills National Forest spans roughly 1.2 million acres of pine-covered hills across western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming. It is the backdrop for some of America's most iconic landmarks, including Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park. Boulder Canyon Golf Club sits directly alongside this forest, meaning the boundary between fairway and wilderness is often just a tree line away.
A scenic golf course is a course where the natural landscape is a defining part of the playing experience, not just a backdrop. At Boulder Canyon, the setting is bounded by the Black Hills National Forest, with only the breeze and nature to set the rhythm for your game. Few public courses anywhere in the region can match that level of immersion.
Course Layout: Front Nine and Back Nine
Boulder Canyon's 18-hole, par-72 championship layout poses an inviting challenge for players of all skill levels. The front nine follows a traditional design with wide fairways and generous greens, making it approachable for beginners and casual golfers alike.
The Back Nine Experience
The back nine presents tighter shots, native grasses, and numerous ponds populated by Canadian geese. It opened in 2018 and brought a modern feel to the course while keeping the natural terrain front and center. The contrast between the two nines keeps every round interesting.
Practice Facilities
The club also features a recently renovated driving range with target pins and a practice putting green, both ideal for warming up or working on your game between rounds. The Golf Shop at Boulder Canyon carries equipment and apparel from leading brands like Callaway and TaylorMade.
What You Will See on the Course
Golfers regularly highlight the views as a standout feature. Rolling hills, local wildlife, and unbroken forest panoramas are visible from nearly every hole. The elevated tees on the back nine provide especially dramatic sightlines across the pine canopy.
A par-72 course is a regulation-length golf course where the expected total strokes for a skilled golfer across 18 holes equals 72. At Boulder Canyon, that par-72 layout winds through terrain that makes each hole feel distinct and visually rewarding.
Beyond Golf: Trails, Dining, and the Sunset Deck
Hiking and Biking Trails
You can head directly from the Boulder Canyon golf course into the Black Hills National Forest trail system. The Forest Service reports approximately 450 miles of hiking trails ranging in length and difficulty throughout the forest, so options for post-round exploration are virtually unlimited.
Canyon Grille and Sunset Deck
After your round, the Canyon Grille offers food, drinks, and multiple TV screens. The expansive sunset deck provides a view of the Black Hills National Forest that makes it easy to linger. It is a popular spot for groups celebrating after a tournament or families winding down a vacation day.
Events and Group Outings
Boulder Canyon hosts group outings and organizational events with dedicated planning support. The setting and amenities make it a natural fit for corporate retreats, fundraisers, and bachelor parties.
How to Get Here
Boulder Canyon Golf Club is a scenic 40-minute drive from Rapid City Regional Airport, which offers nonstop flights from major cities across the country. The course is about 10 minutes from both Deadwood and Sturgis, giving visitors easy access to hundreds of dining, lodging, and entertainment options. Check stay-and-play packages for bundled deals.
| Starting Point | Approximate Drive Time |
|---|---|
| Deadwood, SD | 10 minutes |
| Sturgis, SD | 10 minutes |
| Rapid City Regional Airport | 40 minutes |
| Spearfish, SD | 25 minutes |
How Boulder Canyon Compares
The Black Hills region is home to several golf courses, but Boulder Canyon stands apart in a few key ways.
| Feature | Boulder Canyon Golf Club | Other Area Courses |
|---|---|---|
| Holes | 18 (par 72) | 9 to 18 |
| National Forest Border | Yes, directly adjacent | Varies |
| Open to Public | Yes | Some semi-private |
| On-Site Dining | Canyon Grille + sunset deck | Varies |
| Proximity to Deadwood | 10 minutes | 10 to 45 minutes |
| Trail Access from Course | Direct access to BHNF trails | Rare |
A public golf course is a course that allows any golfer to book a tee time without requiring a membership. Boulder Canyon combines that accessibility with a setting and amenity package that is typically found only at private clubs.
Key Takeaways
- Boulder Canyon Golf Club is bordered by the 1.2-million-acre Black Hills National Forest, offering unmatched scenic views.
- The 18-hole, par-72 championship course features wide fairways on the front nine and a modern, tighter back nine opened in 2018.
- The course is fully open to the public and located 10 minutes from Deadwood and Sturgis.
- Golfers can step off the course directly onto National Forest hiking and biking trails.
- The Canyon Grille and sunset deck let you enjoy food, drinks, and forest views after your round.
- Rapid City Regional Airport is a 40-minute drive away with nonstop service from major cities.
- Group outings, events, and stay-and-play packages are available for visitors planning multi-day trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boulder Canyon Golf Club open to the public?
Yes. Boulder Canyon is a public golf course. Anyone can book a tee time without a membership, though membership options are also available.
How close is the course to the Black Hills National Forest?
The course is directly adjacent to the Black Hills National Forest. You can walk from the course into the forest trail system without driving anywhere.
How many holes does Boulder Canyon have?
Boulder Canyon is an 18-hole, par-72 championship course. The front nine features a traditional layout and the back nine opened in 2018 with a more modern design.
What is there to do after a round of golf?
You can dine at the Canyon Grille, relax on the sunset deck overlooking the National Forest, explore hiking trails, or head to Deadwood or Sturgis for dining and entertainment.
How far is Boulder Canyon from Rapid City?
The course is approximately a 40-minute drive from Rapid City Regional Airport and about 50 minutes from downtown Rapid City.
Can I host a group event or tournament at Boulder Canyon?
Yes. The club offers dedicated planning support for group outings, corporate events, fundraisers, and private celebrations. Visit the event planning page for details.
Does the course have a pro shop and practice facilities?
Yes. The Golf Shop carries equipment from brands like Callaway and TaylorMade, and the club has a renovated driving range and practice putting green.
What is the best time of year to play at Boulder Canyon?
The course is typically open from late April through early November, with peak conditions from June through September when Black Hills weather is warm and dry.
Book Your Tee Time at Boulder Canyon
Ready to play the most scenic golf course in the Black Hills? Book your tee time online and experience 18 holes surrounded by the Black Hills National Forest. Whether you are visiting for the first time or making it an annual tradition, Boulder Canyon Golf Club is where everybody plays.