Lake at Mountain Dell Golf Club

Mountain Dell's Lake Course, carved high into the Wasatch Mountains just east of Salt Lake City, exists as a testament to affordable, accessible golf against a dramatic alpine backdrop. Unlike its more celebrated cousins further down the valley, Lake at Mountain Dell offers a democratic playing experience, prioritizing pace of play and community spirit over championship pretension.

Built in the mid-1960s, the Lake Course presents a classic, if unpretentious, parkland layout. Relatively narrow fairways, tree-lined and undulating, reward accuracy over sheer power. While the original architect remains somewhat obscured by time, the course’s enduring appeal lies in its engaging variety of holes and panoramic views. The elevation, approaching 6,000 feet, grants drives unexpected lift, though the swirling mountain winds can quickly confound even the most experienced players.

Mountain Dell’s Lake Course has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of many aspiring local golfers, serving as a proving ground for those without the resources to access the area’s more exclusive clubs. The modest clubhouse, a beloved local haunt, is known to offer the "Mountain Dell Dog," a unique sausage sandwich, as well as the 19th hole bar where most members can be found after their round. While lacking the pedigree of a national championship venue, it has nonetheless hosted regional amateur events, quietly fostering a competitive spirit within its tight-knit community.

The Lake Course is not a global icon, but its importance lies in its accessibility and its ability to deliver a challenging round to golfers of all skill levels. The course is a cherished community asset – a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-designed, unpretentious golf course.