Copper Creek Golf Course

Venue Overview

Copper Creek Golf Course is the highest-elevation 18-hole golf course in North America, set at Copper Mountain Resort in the heart of Summit County, Colorado. With a starting elevation of 9,700 feet and a tee box that climbs to 9,863 feet, the highest in North America, this Pete and Perry Dye design offers a golf experience you simply cannot get anywhere else: thin mountain air that sends the ball roughly 20% farther, breathtaking views of the Ten Mile Range and Copper's ski runs, and a fun, affordable round just off I-70 about an hour west of Denver. Short but cleverly defended, and surrounded by a full resort, it is a bucket-list setting for a summer round, a group outing, or a stay-and-play getaway.

About the Course

Copper Creek is an 18-hole, par-69 course designed by the father-and-son team of Pete and Perry Dye and opened in 1982 as part of Copper Mountain Resort. Named for the creek that winds into play on several holes, it plays to roughly 6,057 yards from the back tees, short by modern standards, but do not be fooled: at nearly 10,000 feet, this is a genuinely tricky test. It is open to the public and to resort guests. Course features: 18-hole, par-69 course designed by Pete and Perry Dye Roughly 6,057 yards from the back tees, with four sets of tees Opened in 1982 at Copper Mountain Resort The highest-elevation 18-hole golf course in North America A starting elevation of 9,700 feet and a tee box at 9,863 feet, the highest on the continent Copper Creek and water in play on several holes Tight fairways, undulating greens, and strategic Dye bunkering Spectacular views of the Ten Mile Range and Copper's ski runs

The Playing Experience

Copper Creek is all about the altitude, and the adventure that comes with it. At 9,700 feet and up, the thin air sends the ball roughly 10 to 20 percent farther, so drives that feel routine suddenly fly and fly, an unforgettable thrill, especially from the 9,863-foot tee, the highest in North America. But do not let the modest yardage fool you: Pete Dye's design bites back with water on several holes, tight fairways, undulating greens, and everything from small pot bunkers to a few monsters, so accuracy and smart club selection matter far more than length (pack a few extra balls). The front nine is the gentler half, while the back climbs and descends the mountainside for the most scenic, memorable stretch, all framed by the Ten Mile Range and Copper's ski runs. Affordable and genuinely fun, it is a mountain round unlike any other.

Amenities & Dining

Copper Creek keeps things relaxed and scenic: A pro shop with everything you need for your round A practice putting green JJ's Rocky Mountain Tavern, with good food and a patio looking up at the ski runs Carts and rentals available Part of Copper Mountain Resort, with lodging just steps away Note that as a high-country resort course, Copper Creek does not have a driving range, so plan to warm up on the putting green.

Golf Lessons & Instruction

Instruction at Copper Creek is led by teaching professional Zach Dobrota (as of 2026), who welcomes players of all ages and ability levels. The course offers private lessons in 30-minute sessions or a series of five, plus 45-minute junior lessons for players 15 and under, and playing lessons where Zach joins you one-on-one or as part of your foursome for nine holes to sharpen your course management and on-course strategy. Seasonal ladies' clinics run on summer Wednesday evenings, covering a rotating set of skills from putting and chipping to the full swing and course etiquette, with clubs available and all abilities welcome. Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance; contact Zach at zdobrota@coppercolorado.com to book.

Stay & Play and Events

Copper Creek sits at the base of Copper Mountain Resort, making it one of Colorado's most convenient stay-and-play destinations. Guests can book lodging steps from the first tee, with pass-holder savings on summer stays, and pair their golf with the resort's full slate of summer activities, from mountain biking and hiking to lift-served adventures. The resort is also a popular setting for group outings, tournaments, and weddings against a spectacular alpine backdrop. Event types hosted: Charity and nonprofit fundraising tournaments Corporate and group outings Multi-day golf trips and stay-and-play getaways Weddings and special events Contact the resort to inquire about golf outings, group rates, and events.

Planning Your Event Here

Copper Creek works well for organizers who want a truly one-of-a-kind, bucket-list mountain course with the convenience of an on-site resort, all about an hour west of Denver off I-70. Golf is seasonal, generally playable in the summer months once the high country thaws, so prime dates fill early. Its affordability and stay-and-play lodging make it especially well-suited to group trips. Event availability and arrangements are coordinated through Copper Mountain Resort.

Hosting an Event at Copper Creek Golf Course? Launch It on Colorado Under Par

If you're organizing a tournament, scramble, or group outing at Copper Creek Golf Course, you can launch your event for free on Colorado Under Par — Colorado's dedicated platform for discovering and promoting golf, pickleball, and sporting events. Getting your event in front of Colorado's active golf community takes less than five minutes. Launch your event here: coloradounderpar.com/submit-event