If you are searching for a golf course in the Black Hills that delivers sweeping views of the National Forest, Boulder Canyon Golf Club should top your list. Located on scenic Highway US 14-A between Sturgis and Deadwood, South Dakota, this 18-hole, par-72 championship course is bounded by the Black Hills National Forest on nearly every side. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a lifelong golfer, the combination of pine-covered hillsides, native wildlife, and wide-open fairways creates a round you will not soon forget. Here is everything you need to know before booking your tee time.
Why Boulder Canyon Is the Black Hills' Most Scenic Course
Boulder Canyon Golf Club is a public championship golf course situated in the northern Black Hills of South Dakota. In 2023 the club celebrated 75 years as the region's signature golf destination. In 2020, the Rapid City Journal voted it the best golf course in the Northern Hills in its "Best of the Black Hills" publication.
The course's setting is what truly separates it from other options. Bounded by the Black Hills National Forest, your round is accompanied only by the breeze and nature's soundtrack. Towering ponderosa pines and wild grass meadows frame nearly every hole, giving the feeling that the forest itself is a spectator.
Course Layout: Front Nine vs. Back Nine
Boulder Canyon's 18-hole layout is a par-72 design that welcomes players of all skill levels. Understanding the two halves helps you plan your strategy.
Front Nine
The front nine follows a traditional design with wide fairways and generous greens. It is an ideal warm-up for visitors getting their first taste of Black Hills golf.
Back Nine
The back nine, which opened in 2018, presents tighter shots, native grasses, and numerous ponds populated by Canadian geese. Expect more elevation change and closer encounters with the surrounding forest.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Holes / Par | 18 / 72 |
| Course Rating (Blue) | 70 / Slope 125 |
| Cart Fee (18 holes) | $30 |
| Setting | Black Hills National Forest |
| Nearest Towns | Sturgis (10 min), Deadwood (10 min) |
| Nearest Airport | Rapid City Regional (40 min) |
| Open To | Public |
National Forest Views From Every Angle
The Black Hills National Forest is a 1.2-million-acre expanse of pine-covered hills, native wildlife, and magnificent rock formations. At Boulder Canyon, views of the forest are not limited to a single signature hole; they surround the entire course. After your round, the club's expansive sunset deck offers panoramic forest vistas while you enjoy a drink or a meal.
Few public courses in South Dakota can match this level of immersion. The forest boundary means minimal residential development in your sightlines, so the scenery stays natural from the first tee to the 18th green.
On-Site Amenities and Dining
A golf outing is more than just 18 holes. Boulder Canyon provides a full suite of amenities to round out the experience.
Canyon Grille and Sports Bar
The on-site restaurant and bar serves freshly made food, cold drinks, and all-you-can-eat pizza days. Seven TV screens keep you connected to the big game, while the deck seating overlooks the National Forest.
Golf Shop and Practice Facilities
The Golf Shop at Boulder Canyon carries equipment and apparel from leading brands like Callaway and TaylorMade. A recently renovated driving range with target pins and a practice putting green round out the warm-up options.
Getting There: Location and Accessibility
Boulder Canyon Golf Club is located at 12312 US Highway 14A, Sturgis, SD 57785. The course sits roughly halfway between Sturgis and Deadwood, making it convenient for visitors staying in either town. Rapid City Regional Airport is about a 40-minute drive away, with nonstop flights from major cities across the country.
Golfers traveling from Spearfish can reach the club in approximately 30 minutes. For those planning a longer Black Hills vacation, explore stay-and-play packages that bundle lodging with tee times.
Things to Do Beyond the Course
The Black Hills region is a vacation destination with something for everyone. Boulder Canyon's central location puts dozens of attractions within a short drive.
- Hiking and Biking: Step directly from the course into Black Hills National Forest trails covering 1.2 million acres of terrain.
- Deadwood: Historic gaming, dining, and nightlife are just 10 minutes away. Check the Deadwood and Sturgis area guide for ideas.
- Mount Rushmore: The iconic memorial is a scenic drive south through the Hills.
- Spearfish Canyon: Waterfalls, fly fishing, and stunning canyon drives await about 30 minutes north.
For group trips, bachelor parties, or corporate outings, the events team at Boulder Canyon handles catering, prizes, and swag bags so you can focus on having fun.
Key Takeaways
- Boulder Canyon Golf Club is the Black Hills' premier public course with panoramic National Forest views on every hole.
- The 18-hole, par-72 layout features a traditional front nine and a more challenging back nine opened in 2018.
- The course is just 10 minutes from both Deadwood and Sturgis and 40 minutes from Rapid City Regional Airport.
- On-site amenities include the Canyon Grille restaurant, a fully stocked golf shop, and a renovated practice range.
- The club celebrated 75 years in 2023 and was voted best Northern Hills golf course by the Rapid City Journal in 2020.
- Surrounding activities include hiking in 1.2 million acres of National Forest, Mount Rushmore, and Spearfish Canyon.
- Stay-and-play packages make it easy to combine lodging with your round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boulder Canyon Golf Club open to the public?
Yes. Boulder Canyon Golf Club is a public golf course. No membership is required to book a tee time, though membership options are available for frequent players.
How close is the course to the Black Hills National Forest?
The course is directly bounded by the Black Hills National Forest. You can walk from the clubhouse into forest trails without driving anywhere.
What is the par and course rating at Boulder Canyon?
Boulder Canyon is a par-72 championship course. From the blue tees the 18-hole course rating is 70 with a slope of 125.
How do I get to Boulder Canyon from Rapid City?
The course is approximately a 40-minute drive from Rapid City Regional Airport via Interstate 90 and US Highway 14A.
Does Boulder Canyon have a restaurant?
Yes. The Canyon Grille and Sports Bar serves food and drinks on-site, including an expansive deck with views of the National Forest.
Can I book group events or tournaments?
Absolutely. The club's experienced events team can plan tournaments, corporate outings, and bachelor parties. Visit the organizations event page to learn more.
When is the golf season at Boulder Canyon?
The course typically operates from spring through early November, weather permitting. Check the club updates page for current conditions.
Are there lodging options near the course?
Yes. Rock Ranch Villas adjacent to the course offer luxury suites with golf-course views. Additional lodging is available in Deadwood, Sturgis, and Rapid City. Browse stay options for details.
Book Your Scenic Black Hills Tee Time
Ready to experience the most scenic golf course in the Black Hills? Book your tee time at Boulder Canyon Golf Club today and play 18 holes surrounded by the beauty of the Black Hills National Forest.