Country Hills Golf Club

The Ridge at Country Hills Golf Club occupies elevated terrain in northeast Calgary, designed by Dave Bennett and opened in the mid-1990s as part of the city's expansion-era golf development. Bennett, a Canadian architect who worked extensively across the prairie provinces, routed the course to take advantage of natural elevation changes and views across the surrounding landscape. The design reflects the regional approach to golf architecture during this period, balancing playability for a broad membership with strategic interest for accomplished players. The course's name references its topographical character, with several holes playing along ridgelines and others descending into lower-lying areas. This movement creates variety in shot requirements and exposes players to Calgary's characteristic wind patterns, which can significantly influence club selection and strategy. The layout incorporates natural grasses and native vegetation typical of southern Alberta, with stands of mature trees framing certain corridors while others remain more open to the prairie environment. Country Hills operates as a semi-private facility, serving both members and daily-fee players in Calgary's competitive golf market. The club provides year-round amenities typical of modern Canadian golf facilities, with the course playable from spring through fall depending on weather conditions. The Ridge functions as a neighborhood course within Calgary's broader golf community, offering accessible golf in a city where the sport enjoys strong participation despite the relatively short season.