The Inside Swing

Bear Dance Golf Club

Denver, Colorado

Public Course · 18 Holes · Par 72 · 7,750 yds · $55–$120 · 4.4

At 7,750 yards from the tips (playing shorter at altitude), Bear Dance in Larkspur is one of the longest courses in Colorado. Keith Foster's design uses dramatic elevation changes through scrub oak and ponderosa pine with panoramic Front Range views on nearly every hole.

History & Heritage

Bear Dance opened in 2003, designed by Keith Foster and carved through the timber of the Colorado Front Range south of Denver near Castle Rock/Larkspur. At approximately 7,750 yards from the tips, it is one of the longest courses in Colorado. The PGA Colorado Section is headquartered at Bear Dance.

The course consistently ranks among Colorado\'s best public courses. The front nine has a more open, links-style feel while the back nine plays through dense timber with dramatic mountain-style elevation swings — essentially two courses in one.

Signature Holes

16
Hole 16 Par 4 · 430 yards

Widely cited as one of the best holes in Colorado. Plays from a severely elevated tee down to a valley fairway with a pond guarding the front of the green. The elevation drop is dramatic and the views are stunning.

What to Expect

The front nine is open and links-style with less elevation change. The back nine transforms into mountain/forest golf through dense timber with significant elevation swings and stunning Front Range views. Greens run fast (stimping at 11-12).

At 7,750 yards from the tips (playing shorter at ~6,500 feet altitude where the ball carries roughly 10% farther), this is a genuine monster. Multiple tee sets make it playable for all levels, but tee selection is critical.

Expect 4.5-5 hour rounds given the length and terrain.

Playing Tips

The altitude (~6,500 feet) adds roughly 10% to carry distances. Factor this into every club selection.

Play conservative on the back nine where trees tighten landing areas significantly compared to the open front.

Greens are fast — respect the slopes and lag putt on unfamiliar surfaces.

Bring extra golf balls. The length and tight back nine demand them.

Tee selection is critical given the extreme yardage range. Don\'t play the tips unless you\'re a strong player.

Highlights

  • 7,750 yards — one of Colorado's longest courses
  • Dramatic Front Range elevation changes
  • Keith Foster design in Larkspur

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bear Dance really 7,750 yards?
Yes — one of the longest courses in Colorado. However, at 6,500 feet altitude the ball carries roughly 10% farther, so it plays somewhat shorter than the number suggests.
What is the front nine vs back nine like?
The front nine is open and links-style. The back nine transforms into mountain/forest golf through dense timber with dramatic elevation changes — essentially two courses in one.
Who designed it?
Keith Foster, opening in 2003. The PGA Colorado Section is headquartered at Bear Dance.

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