History of Golf in the Southern Adirondacks

History of Golf in the Southern Adirondacks

The sport of golf in the southern Adirondacks dates back to the early 1920’s. During a time when the number of weekend leisure golfers doubled, there were several golf courses being designed and built in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. Today we know them as the Lake Pleasant Golf Course, the Inlet Golf Club, Schroon Lake Golf Course, and High Peaks Golf Course, four of the most scenic courses in the Adirondacks and home to challenging hazards, refreshing post-course drinks, and big, big views. Grab your irons and let's go!

The Lake Pleasant Golf Course

Built in 1922, The Lake Pleasant Golf Course was designed by the well known golf course architect Donald Ross. Donald Ross started out as an apprentice at St Andrews in Scotland. He later moved to the United States of America and began working his way up the ladder in the golf world. 

A golfer putts on a scenic green with trees and low hills in the background.

Established in 1923, the golf course, located between Lake Pleasant and Sacandaga Lake, was originally a part of the Hotel Morley Complex and known as the Hamilton County Adirondack Club at Lake Pleasant. Today, 100 years later, the Lake Pleasant Golf Course boasts 9 challenging holes, with 4 sets of alternate tees, making the second round of 9 holes a different experience. The clubhouse is open to the public daily May through Columbus Day. Join the Lake Pleasant Golf Club on August 6th as they celebrate the impressive milestone of its 100th anniversary! 

An illustrated, vintage postcard showing a golf course overlooking a lake.

When planning your summer vacation to the Adirondacks and the Speculator region, put the Lake Pleasant Golf Course on your to-do list. It makes for a fun afternoon with your spouse, family, or friends, and you will get to see some beautiful Adirondack views along the way! 

The Inlet Golf Club

Another Donald Ross designed course, the Inlet Golf Club was built in 1926, next to Sixth Lake, in the town of Inlet. This 18-hole course is nestled between lakes, rivers, and Adirondack Mountains. Deer and black bears have been known to be seen on the course, so keep your eyes peeled for the opportunity! 

A woman putts on a golf green with fall-tinged trees behind her.

The Inlet Golf Club prides itself on being a relaxing atmosphere and a place to have fun with family and friends, while inspiring a love for the game of golf. The course presents a challenging and scenic game, located just minutes from the quaint community of Inlet. On the property a fantastic course-side restaurant. Stop in after your game for refreshments and a meal!

A cold, tall glass of beer sits on an attractive wood bar.

Enjoy a stay on the lake, experience the community of Inlet, and enjoy 18 holes of golf while you are in the Adirondacks this summer; you won’t be disappointed! 

Schroon Lake Golf Course

The more you golf in the Adirondacks, the more you get familiar with famous names. Scotsman Donald Ross, who designed the course at Lake Pleasant, also had a hand in the nine-hole course in Schroon Lake. It is said that Ross was hired to lay out the course in the 1910s by two local businessmen who had a keen interest in the sport.

Aerial view of a golf course in the Adirondacks, with a large lake and mountains in the background.

Just because the course is nine holes doesn't mean you should skip it! The greens are fast, the challenges are exciting, and the location close to this favorite summer vacation town can't be beat.

High Peaks Golf Course

When you're feeling like a real champ and you want to hit the heights of golf greatness, be sure to head to Newcomb, home of the High Peaks Golf Course. From here, you'll feel like you can tee off right into the heart of the Adirondacks!

Aerial view of a golf course surrounded by forest and mountains.

This is a new, nine-hole course that has plenty of fans. Strategy is big here, while the placement of the bunkers is creative and will keep you on your toes. The surrounding town of Newcomb is home to a historic Great Camp, and plenty of other outdoor adventures!

Plan your golf vacation to the Adirondacks this summer. Check out our different lodging properties in our perfect small towns, exciting outdoor activities, places to eat, and more while you are here!