Golf Kamloops Logo – Source: Golf Kamloops
The city of Kamloops can dazzle any venturing tourist with its angulations and unique elevation changes. In addition to the sweeping landscape, the abundant activity options makes Kamloops an interesting and beautiful stop for any individual visiting the Okanagan. While many get caught up in the scenery, lakes, and activities that Kamloops has to offer, the one experience that continually gets overlooked by many tourists and the one that can be the most breath-taking is the ability to take in Canada’s most diverse golf landscape.
The beautiful warm breeze, sweeping valley views, and rocky hoodoos makes Kamloops a dream destination for any golfer of any skill level. From shorelines to cliff sides, Kamloops’ distinct landscape will suit any golfer, while presenting a unique challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
Sit back and enjoy the five most unique golf courses and signature holes that Kamloops has to offer. Then start thinking about the course you want to play for your next unforgettable golf vacation.
5. Rivershore
Rivershore Logo – Source: Rivershore Golf Links
Rivershore from above
Rivershore is the only true links golf course in Kamloops. Designed by the legend himself (Robert Trent Jones SR.), the course stretches around the riverside landscape of the South Thompson River, and the fairways wind through wild fescue and sagebrush.
The layout of the course is relatively flat and water is used sparingly on this fantastic links-style course. Individuals will find holes that line the calm Thompson River on the way into the clubhouse. This fun, at times, challenging course shows off the panoramic views of the links layout and surrounding desert landscape from every direction. This wide open links course is fun and beautiful for any golfer.
Signature Hole
The par 4, 16th hole at Rivershore is one the most thought provoking holes on the course. Surrounded by water and views of the hoodoos’ this up and down par 4 can be daunting. Five of Rivershore’s 99 bunkers reside next to the green which adds to the added pressure. It is heavily advised to lay up off the tee to stay clear of the water at the end of the fairway.
The 16th hole is deemed to be one of the most thought provoking holes on the entire golf course
4. BigHorn
BigHorn Logo – Source: BigHorn Golf and Country Club
A bighorn sheep ventures onto the golf course
Located in the quaint community of Sun Rivers, BigHorn offers a unique golfing challenge. Bent grass fairways, natural sand dunes, and gently contoured greens meander through the community. Located only five minutes from downtown Kamloops, BigHorn is the closest golf course to the center of Kamloops for any tourist looking to get out and enjoy their surroundings.
This stunning golf course offers views of both the North and South Thompson River, and encapsulates the Kamloops region. In addition to being swept away by the beautiful views and rocky hoodoos, golfers can encounter some of the resident big horned sheep who like to visit golfers on the course. This is the only golf course in Kamloops where a golfer can see the entirety of Kamloops while being able to reach out and touch nature (not advised).
Signature Hole
The par 4, 14th hole has the largest elevation change on the golf course. The approach shot from above offers amazing views of the surrounding vistas and hoodoos, as well as the city of Kamloops in the distance. While the shot may not seem too tricky, many golfers forget to take elevation and wind into play, and end up either being way too long or way too short. The approach shot to this green is roughly two clubs less than the yardage indicates.
The panoramic scenery of the 14th hole eclipses the beauty of the golf course and the Kamloops region
3. EaglePoint
EaglePoint Logo – Source: EaglePoint Golf Resort
EaglePoint from above
With a more traditional feel and open terrain than other Kamloops golf courses, Eagle Point provides value for all golf enthusiasts. While the course may seem more traditional, it still provides spectacular views of Kamloops at every turn. Located just 15 minutes away from downtown Kamloops, this untapped terrain creates holes that see-saw and wind through the valley and cliffs of Kamloops.
EaglePoint offers a unique golfing experience for players of all level to thrive. Strategic shot making and precise short game will leave any golfer in a good spot, as the desert fescue that lines the fairway will make any golf ball that ventures away from the fairway, disappear.
Above all, breath-taking views are available in all directions as the course sits atop one of the highest points in Kamloops.
Signature Hole
The par 5, 18th hole at EaglePoint dog lakes right around a steep cliffside plateau. This challenging final hole offers golfers a scenic route to the clubhouse, while still presenting a difficult test to close the round out. Shots away from the fairway off the tee-box will prove challenging as the natural fescue lining the hole will eat any golf ball.
The signature 18th hole at EaglePoint challenges any golfer
2. Talking Rock
Talking Rock Logo – Source: The Sieb Organization
The beautiful Talking Rock view
Since opening in 2007 Talking rock has quickly become a world-renowned golf course that puts golfers in the center of nature’s beauty. The attention to detail leaves golfers of every skill level eager to return and take in the beautiful surroundings.
The golf course curves through a stunning sandy forest and ends with a spectacular 18th hole along the shoreline of Little Shuswap Lake. Around every corner are breath-taking panoramic views from all directions. Since it took little effort to alter the land to form a golf course, one experiences a natural and rugged landscape that cannot be replicated.
Signature Hole
The beautiful par 3, elevated 15th hole overlooks the mountainous landscape of Kamloops. The raised tee-box acts as a stunning viewpoint to take in Little Shuswap Lake. Approach shots must be handled with care as the green is centered in the middle of three cavernous bunkers and – if beached – is extremely difficult to get up and down. Focus is the most important factor as the stunning view can leave any golfer dazed by the natural beauty.
The beautiful 15th hole overlooks a mountainous region above Little Shuswap Lake
1. Tobiano
Tobiano Logo – Source: Golf Canada’s West
The stunning Tobiano course layout against a beautiful Kamloops backdrop
Located on the site of the historic Six Mile Ranch, lies a famous Canadian golf course that is situated on the bluffs above Kamloops Lake. This challenging yet beautiful golf course sets the ultimate stage for golf courses in Kamloops, showcasing how course architecture is designed to encompass as much of the natural landscape as possible. Architect Thomas McBroom designed a world class course in the center of one of the most beautiful and vast lakes in all of British Columbia.
Ranked 24th in Canada from Score Golf Magazine, Tobiano offers a very difficult layout for the average golfer. While the course may be ranked 24th in Canada, it is number one in the hearts of many British Columbians. Tobiano is without a doubt one of the most discussed and beautiful golf courses ever to be opened in Canada.
Signature Hole
The par 4, 14th hole at Tobiano is arguably one of the most stunning holes in all of Canada. Located at one of the highest points of the property, the 14th hole presents immaculate mountain views that act as a backdrop to the surrounding Kamloops Lake. While the hole is beautiful, it can prove to be challenging for even the most advanced golfers. Be smart and stay in the middle.
The stunning 14th hole overlooking Kamloops Lake acts as Tobiano’s signature hole
Each golf course in Kamloops offers its own unique experience. From steep and rocky to flat and scenic, the opportunities to explore one’s golf game is endless. While the outcome of one’s round may be up in the air, one thing is for certain, once an individual experiences golf in Kamloops, they will never want to play anywhere else.
For more information about golf in Kamloops check out this featured video https://youtu.be/SByWgLrKB1Y and visit www.golfkamloops.com
