The Best Disc Golf Courses to Play This Fall

Disc golf has transformed into something far beyond its “frolfing” origins into a sport of its own. It blends skill, strategy, and hours spent outdoors, and that combination has placed many courses within ski resorts and mountain town boundaries. The locations, renowned for their landscapes and active communities, provide a perfect backdrop for disc golf courses.

Mountain terrain offers challenging and scenic disc golf courses, whether you're a seasoned player or a newbie looking for a change of pace this summer. From navigating wooded fairways to launching discs off tees with alpine views, each course has its own flavor and draw. We’ve rounded up the best disc golf courses in mountain towns here. 

Smugglers' Notch, based in northern Vermont, is a ski resort that’s also home to some of the best disc golf courses in the country. The Smugglers' Notch Disc Golf and Outdoor Center offers two 18-hole courses: Brewster Ridge and Fox Run Meadows, that wrap through the surrounding green mountains.

Brewster Ridge is often hailed as one of the top courses in the United States, and for good reason. The wooded course challenges players thanks to its technical fairways and elevation changes. The course is meticulous; the tight lines and well-placed baskets require precision and strategy instead of brute strength. The 18 holes carry players through tall trees, soft pine-needle-covered grounds, and classic Vermont green growth.

Fox Run Meadows is known for its more open and longer layout, which complements the Brewster Ride nicely. Players are forced to go up against tricky wind conditions and should be able to execute long drives across the course’s rolling meadows. Fox Run Meadows deals in scenic mountain views and well defined fairways.

The high-quality courses set Smugglers' Notch apart as a disc golf destination, especially when combined with the on-site pro shop, rental services, and instructional clinics for all skill levels. The community atmosphere is welcoming, making it a great destination for both competitive players and families looking to enjoy a day out.

Located just 40 minutes outside of Denver, Colorado in the town of Conifer, Beaver Ranch Disc Golf Course was ranked the 11th best course in the world in 2021. Its two courses are tucked within the foothills of the Rockies, giving grand views to go alongside the immersive experience.

The Premier Course includes 63 baskets, and each basket offers an easy, intermediate, and a hard position for an inclusive approach that caters to all skill levels. The course is spread out over 60 acres, and Beaver Ranch estimates it takes about two to three hours to complete the course. The more mellow Putt & Approach course has 20 baskets laid out over 15 acres, and takes approximately 45 minutes to play in entirety.

Across the terrain, there’s some elevation change that tests players’ skill sets (as well as their fitness) and the course stretches over dense forest and open meadows. The course is as visually appealing as it is technically challenging. Amenities include a pro shop with a selection of discs and gear, and picnic areas are perfect for a post-game snack.

Like anything held in California’s Tahoe region, the Tahoe Vista Regional Disc Golf Course is a sight worth spending time at. The course is located on the north shore of Lake Tahoe and offers a combo of play and beauty.

The course features 18 holes, each designed to incorporate the natural terrain. Players navigate through woods, open meadows, and rolling hills—just watch out for the trees—pines and firs act as both obstacles and shade. The variety of hole layouts, ranging from short, techy shots to long, open drives, gives players of all skill levels a challenge while still being accessible.

It practically goes without saying that one of the course’s best features is the views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra mountains. Several holes offer panoramic vistas, which pairs well with the well-maintained course that has clear signage and well-marked fairways.

To make the most out of their day, disc golfers should take advantage of the nearby picnic areas and playground—it’s an easy destination for families and groups.