Canyon sitting within short proximity in the southwest corner. Zion is a geologic wonderland, home to slot canyons, mesas, monoliths and a rich variety of wildlife. Just 50 miles northeast, Bryce Canyon isn’ t a true canyon, but a collection of vast natural amphitheaters carved into Paunsaugunt Plateau. Its iconic hoodoos— spire-shaped rock formations— were sculpted by frost weathering and erosion, creating a surreal landscape of red, orange and white.
Together, these two parks offer a breathtaking travel itinerary. And just southwest of Zion, the St. George area boasts a booming golf scene set against the region’ s dramatic desert backdrops. Copper Rock Golf Course, one of the area’ s newer standouts, features rolling fairways and panoramic views that make it both challenging and visually striking. Coral Canyon Golf Course, located right off I-15 in Washington, is another local favorite that showcases the region’ s red rock vistas and native vegetation. From there, golfers can explore everything from the high-end Black Desert Resort— host to PGA and LPGA Tour events— to budget-friendly gems like the St. George Golf Club. With lava rock, canyon walls and panoramic views in play, each round feels like a journey through another world.
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
State: Arizona Nearby courses: Continental Golf Club, Lake Powell National Golf Course, Elephant Rocks Golf Club
One of the world’ s most popular tourist destinations, the Grand Canyon is rightly considered one of the Wonders of the World. Spanning more than 1.2 million
Copper Rock and Coral Canyon( below) in Southwest Utah.
acres, the park drew over 4.7 million recreational visitors in 2023. Arizona’ s identity is closely tied to it— the state is nicknamed the Grand Canyon State, and even Grand Canyon University carries the name( despite being a good three hours south in west Phoenix). Most visitors enter through the South Entrance, where you’ ll find the park’ s primary overlooks and trailheads, along with the crowds. Hardier folks will make the long trek north in the spring and summer to Jacob Lake, the gateway to the Canyon’ s North Rim. It’ s one of the most peaceful places you’ ll ever experience.
Flagstaff and Williams are the most common home bases for park visitors. While Flagstaff boasts excellent private clubs like Forest Highlands( host of multiple USGA championships), public options like Continental Country Club and Elephant Rocks in Williams offer memorable rounds. Elephant rocks, a personal favorite from this
author’ s time living in the area, began as nine holes before expanding to 18 in 2000. The“ new nine”( holes 6-14) bring a distinct feel from the tighter, original layout.
Those exploring the North Rim may find themselves stopping in Page, near Lake Powell. There you’ ll find Lake Powell National Golf Course, a scenic track featuring“ The Cliff,” the par-3 15th hole with a 125-foot drop to a heart-shaped green featuring dramatic views of the Vermillion Cliffs and Lake Powell. Two holes later, players are treated to a par-5 that plays up to 650 yards from the tips. Page sits at more than 4,000 feet in elevation, so keep that in mind when playing.
While not an exhaustive list, we hope this inspires you to pair your next national park adventure with a round— or several— of golf. After all, there’ s no better way to experience the great outdoors than with a hike in the morning and a tee time in the afternoon. Safe travels, and enjoy the adventure!
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE COURSES vsga. org J U LY / A UGUST 2025 | V IRGINIA G OLFER
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