Elkhorn Ridge Golf Club

Elkhorn Ridge Golf Club sits in the northern Black Hills near Spearfish, South Dakota, where the High Plains meet forested ridgelines and limestone outcroppings. Designed by Patrick Wyss and opened in the early 2000s, the course occupies rolling terrain that offers elevation changes uncommon in the region, with fairways that move through ponderosa pine stands and across open meadowland. The routing takes advantage of natural contours and rock formations characteristic of the Black Hills geology. The layout presents a mix of strategic challenges shaped by the topography. Several holes play along ridgelines with downhill tee shots, while others require uphill approaches or navigate draws between wooded slopes. The design incorporates native grasses and maintains a relatively natural aesthetic that reflects the surrounding landscape. Greens are typically elevated or contoured to test approach accuracy, and the course rewards players who can work the ball with the terrain rather than overpower it. Elkhorn Ridge serves as a daily-fee facility and has become a notable destination for golfers visiting the Black Hills, which include Mount Rushmore and other regional attractions. The course complements the area's tourism infrastructure while offering a golf experience distinct from flatter prairie layouts found elsewhere in South Dakota. Its setting provides views of the surrounding hills and occasional wildlife sightings typical of the region.