Sequatchie Valley Course
South Pittsburg, TN, USA



Sweetens Cove, forged in the folds of the Sequatchie Valley, is as much a pilgrimage site as a golf course, hallowed ground stained with bourbon and the echoes of joyous, imperfect swings. It's a place where the spirit of the game takes precedence over its rigid conventions. The original nine holes, a minimalist masterpiece, unfold across terrain that defies easy categorization. While not a true links, the rumpled fairways and strategic bunkering, touched up and re-imagined by the esteemed design duo of Rob Collins and Tad King, evoke a sense of timeless challenge. It's not overly long, but favors inventive shot-making and a healthy dose of risk-reward calculation. The course isn't about brute force but cleverness, often rewarding the bold player who embraces the unconventional. While Sweetens Cove hasn’t hosted professional championships, its influence permeates the game through word-of-mouth and the passionate embrace of a devoted following. Its charm lies in its accessibility, and the communal spirit it fosters among golfers of all abilities. The course's allure is amplified by the local "brown water" tradition where players leave a shot of bourbon for those to come. Sweetens Cove remains a destination for golfers who value experience and the sheer joy of the game. It is a symbol for the every-person golfer that is as challenging as it is accessible. It stands apart, a testament to the power of simple, soulful golf in a world often obsessed with perfection and exclusivity.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Public: #152
Best in USA
Public: #74
Best in TN
Public: #1
Golfers say Sweetens Cove is a must-visit destination for its laid-back atmosphere and unique nine-hole layout that encourages all-day play and repeat rounds with friends. Most praise the fun, creative routing and large, fast greens that keep the experience engaging across multiple loops, with many noting the relaxed vibe that welcomes coolers, match play, and casual enjoyment. Reviewers consistently highlight the course as ideal for spending an entire day with buddies, calling it a cultural icon in golf that offers something different from traditional layouts. Some note the facilities are minimal—no range and a basic pro shop—but the property itself and the overall experience more than compensate for any amenities it lacks.
8.5
215 players
A bit overrated after 2 loops through. Congestion backs groups up and the real variety is in the greens that make for some fun approaches, pitches, and putts
There's nothing better than a day at Sweetens. To go out to Sweetens with your boys, play 36 holes, have a shot of whiskey before you play, bring a cooler, and a day full of match play - there's nothing like it. I play every chance I get. Cheers to a day at Sweetens!
Sweetens Cove is a place every golf degenerate should visit at least once in their lifetime. Great vibe and wonder walk. You’d be hard pressed to find a better course to spend all day at with a couple of golfing buddies.
I love this place. Before i had a real job and could travel more this was always my #1 golf course. I will never say no to a trip here
Super fun place!
It’s my favorite 9-hole course in the world.
Laid back vibes + great layout. Greens are huge, fast, and fun !
Sweetens is a well kept secret. The 9 hole layout with different pins and layouts is interesting. When I played it, there was no range and the pro shop wasn’t anything special. Looking forward to going back.
Fun day
Sweetens is unbelievably fun and so unique. To me it seems it’s becoming a cultural icon in the golf world. Shockingly, even with a 20 person bachelor party group pace of play was never an issue, but it will never play as a traditional course. Whether you like that or not is up to you.
Public courses closest to Sequatchie Valley at Sweetens Cove Golf Club.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Sequatchie Valley at Sweetens Cove Golf Club has a Course Vaults score of 8.5 out of 10 based on 117 explicit golfer ratings.
Yes. Sequatchie Valley at Sweetens Cove Golf Club is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Sequatchie Valley is 36.
Sequatchie Valley plays 3,057 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Sequatchie Valley is 121.
Sequatchie Valley is a 9-hole course.