The Travelling Golfer: Big Sky Golf and Country Club

Golf Expert James Cronk Visits Pemberton, BC

Credit: Big Sky G &CC

Big Sky Golf & Country Club

Big Sky Golf & Country Club against the backdrop of Mt. Currie, towering 8,000 feet in the background.

 

The Location

If you are okay with travelling to Whistler for a round of golf, then don’t think twice about driving an additional 25 minutes to play this amazing gem of a golf course. Against the backdrop of Mt. Currie, towering 8,000 feet in the background, you will experience one of the most breathtaking locations for a golf course this side of Banff. It might be an eagle you hear, or a glider from the nearby Pemberton airport, or even the screams of a parachutist overhead. While putting on the 5th green, take a quick look to your left where you might see a bear grabbing his lunch from the Green River. For location, it simply doesn’t get any better than this.

 

The Golf

The course was designed by the renowned Bob Cupp and has rightfully been recognized as one of the best courses in the country. Awards include “Top 10 Places to Play in Canada” by Golf Digest, and the course offers all types of risks and rewards.  A favourite is the par-5 4th hole, with more options than a BMW. With bent grass everywhere, you will feel like you are walking on carpet, as the course is known for its great conditioning. The most challenging hole? How about the par four 12th, where a long iron over a meandering creek makes birdie unlikely, if not impossible.

 

The Experience

The clubhouse has great food and offers a spectacular deck from which to soak up the sunshine, gaze out at Mt. Currie and watch the golfers’ make birdie on the par-5  18th. The staff all seem to be from the East Coast, so if you can handle the accents you will find they are all extremely friendly and service oriented. Arrive early to take advantage of the excellent driving range.

 

Final Score

Big Sky should be on everyone’s must-play list.  It’s not inexpensive, but you can reduce the fees by taking advantage of the many packages and offers listed on its website, and some even include green fees at other Whistler courses. Next time you have a guest in from out of town asking what golf course best represents the beauty of B.C., you might send them to Big Sky.

 

The Stats

5,617 yards to 7,001 yards — par 72
For details, rates and tee times, visit www.bigskygolf.com
Contact 1-800-668-7900