If you have ever wondered where to find a golf course framed by towering ponderosa pines and panoramic views of a national forest, Boulder Canyon Golf Club is the answer. Nestled directly on the border of the Black Hills National Forest, this 18-hole, par-72 championship course offers a playing experience unlike anything else in the region. The course is open to the public, welcoming golfers of every skill level to one of South Dakota's most breathtaking natural settings. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway near Deadwood or a full Black Hills vacation, Boulder Canyon deserves a top spot on your itinerary.
Why Boulder Canyon Golf Club Stands Out
Boulder Canyon Golf Club is a public golf course located on US Highway 14A, just east of the historic town of Deadwood in South Dakota's Black Hills. Its setting is bounded by the Black Hills National Forest, with only the breeze and nature's accompaniment to set the rhythm for your game.
The club's culture is professional, relaxed, and friendly. First-time visitors are treated with the same warmth as long-time members, and beginners are encouraged to have as much fun as competitive players. That inclusive philosophy is captured in the club's tagline: "Where Everybody Plays."
Playing Alongside 1.2 Million Acres of National Forest
The Black Hills National Forest is a 1.2-million-acre expanse of pine-covered mountains, sparkling lakes, and rugged granite formations spanning western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming. It is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and is free to enter.
Boulder Canyon's fairways wind through this landscape, giving golfers unobstructed sightlines into the forest canopy. After your round, you can step directly from the course onto trails that guide you through native wildlife habitat and magnificent rock formations.
Wildlife You May Spot
The national forest is home to elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, mountain goats, and over 200 species of birds. It is not uncommon to see deer grazing near the fairways at dawn or hawks circling above the course during an afternoon round.
Course Overview: 18 Holes of Championship Golf
Boulder Canyon Golf Club is an 18-hole, par-72 championship layout that tests players of all skill levels. The back nine opened in the spring of 2018, adding wide-open spaces and gorgeous elevated views to an already impressive front nine.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Holes | 18 |
| Par | 72 |
| Access | Open to the public |
| Location | US Hwy 14A, near Deadwood, SD |
| Nearest Airport | Rapid City Regional (RAP), ~40 min |
| Proximity to Deadwood | ~10 minutes |
| Proximity to Sturgis | ~10 minutes |
| Dining | The Canyon Grille (destination restaurant) |
Visit the full course details page for a hole-by-hole course map and current rates.
The Canyon Grille: A New Dining Destination
The Canyon Grille is a brand-new destination restaurant at Boulder Canyon Golf Club, designed to be the area's most sought-after venue for date nights, special occasions, business dinners, and events. It replaces the club's previous dining setup with a dramatically elevated culinary experience.
Guests can enjoy a meal on the expansive deck overlooking the Black Hills National Forest, making it the perfect way to cap off a day on the course. Explore the menu and upcoming events at thecanyongrille.com.
Beyond the Fairways: Hiking, Wildlife, and Local Attractions
Trails Directly From the Course
You can head directly from Boulder Canyon into trail systems that traverse 1.2 million acres of pine-covered hills, native wildlife, and magnificent rock formations. The Black Hills National Forest features over 450 miles of marked trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Deadwood and Sturgis
Boulder Canyon is just 10 minutes from Deadwood and Sturgis, giving you hundreds of options for dining, hotels, and entertainment after your round. Learn more in the club's Deadwood and Sturgis area guide.
Rapid City and Spearfish
The course is also a short drive from Rapid City, South Dakota's second-largest city, and the fishing and wildlife in Spearfish. Check out the Rapid City and Spearfish area guides for trip-planning ideas.
How to Get Here
Boulder Canyon Golf Club is a scenic 40-minute drive from Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP). With nonstop flights from major cities across the country, travelers are within easy reach of the best golfing the Black Hills have to offer. The course is accessible from two airports and sits alongside major roadways including US Highway 14A.
Black Hills Golf at a Glance
| Feature | Boulder Canyon Golf Club |
|---|---|
| National Forest Border | Yes, directly bounded |
| Public Access | Yes |
| Par | 72 |
| On-Site Dining | The Canyon Grille (destination restaurant) |
| Minutes to Deadwood | ~10 |
| Minutes to Sturgis | ~10 |
| Airport Distance | ~40 min from RAP |
| Trail Access | Direct access to BHNF trails |
Key Takeaways
- Boulder Canyon Golf Club is the Black Hills' most scenic public course, bounded on all sides by the Black Hills National Forest.
- The course is an 18-hole, par-72 championship layout open to golfers of every ability.
- The back nine opened in 2018 and features sweeping elevated views of the surrounding forest.
- The Canyon Grille is the club's brand-new destination restaurant with deck views of the national forest.
- The course is just 10 minutes from historic Deadwood and Sturgis, making it easy to combine golf with sightseeing.
- Rapid City Regional Airport is only a 40-minute drive away, with nonstop flights from major U.S. cities.
- Hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing trails start directly from the course property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boulder Canyon Golf Club open to the public?
Yes. Boulder Canyon Golf Club is a fully public golf course. You do not need a membership to play, although membership options are available for frequent visitors.
Where exactly is Boulder Canyon Golf Club located?
The course is on US Highway 14A in the Black Hills of South Dakota, roughly halfway between Sturgis and Deadwood. It is about 10 minutes from both towns.
Can I see the Black Hills National Forest from the course?
Absolutely. The course is bordered by the national forest, so you will enjoy uninterrupted forest views from nearly every hole and from the expansive dining deck.
What is the Canyon Grille?
The Canyon Grille is a brand-new destination restaurant located at Boulder Canyon Golf Club. It offers upscale dining with panoramic views of the national forest and is open to both golfers and the general public.
How far is the course from Rapid City Regional Airport?
Boulder Canyon Golf Club is approximately a 40-minute scenic drive from Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP).
Can I hike or bike near the golf course?
Yes. You can walk directly from the course into the Black Hills National Forest trail system, which includes over 450 miles of marked trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Does Boulder Canyon host group events and tournaments?
Yes. The club has a dedicated events team that handles group outings, corporate tournaments, and bachelor party golf packages.
What wildlife might I see on the course?
The surrounding national forest is home to elk, deer, mountain goats, wild turkeys, and over 200 bird species. Deer sightings on or near the fairways are common.
Book Your Tee Time at Boulder Canyon
Ready to experience the most scenic golf course in the Black Hills? Reserve your tee time online and see for yourself why Boulder Canyon Golf Club is where everybody plays.