The Inside Swing

Bear Dance Golf Club

Larkspur, Colorado

Public Course · 18 Holes · Par 72 · 7,516 yds · $55–$100 · 4.4

A Keith Foster design south of Denver in Larkspur, Bear Dance is consistently ranked the top public course in Colorado. The dramatic 7,516-yard layout through scrub oak foothills features significant elevation changes, spectacular Front Range views, and a rugged mountain character that evokes Colorado golf at its finest.

History & Heritage

The Golf Club at Bear Dance opened in 2002, designed by a group of four PGA of America members headed by Brian Whitcomb, who later served as PGA of America president from 2007 to 2008. The course was built in the scrub oak foothills of Larkspur, south of Denver, on dramatic terrain with significant elevation changes.

Bear Dance quickly established itself as Colorado's top daily-fee course, a ranking it has held for over eight consecutive years. The course serves as the home of the Colorado Section of the PGA of America. Heritage Golf Group acquired the property, bringing additional resources to maintain the championship-caliber conditions.

The 7,516-yard layout features generous tree-lined fairways framed by distinctive white sand bunkers, with the Front Range providing a spectacular backdrop. GOLF Magazine has recognized Bear Dance as one of the best courses in Colorado.

Signature Holes

5
Hole 5 Par 5 · 575 yards

A sweeping par 5 with dramatic elevation change and Front Range views. Risk-reward decisions abound with the green reachable in two for long hitters.

10
Hole 10 Par 4 · 450 yards

A challenging par 4 with a dramatic downhill tee shot through the scrub oak foothills. The views from the tee are among the best on the course.

15
Hole 15 Par 3 · 210 yards

A demanding par 3 with significant elevation change affecting club selection. The white sand bunkers frame the green beautifully.

18
Hole 18 Par 4 · 460 yards

A strong finishing hole that demands two quality shots to reach the green, with mountain views providing a dramatic conclusion.

What to Expect

Bear Dance is a rugged mountain golf experience through scrub oak foothills with spectacular Front Range views. At 7,516 yards from the tips, it is one of the longest public courses in Colorado, though altitude compensates significantly. Five sets of tees accommodate all skill levels.

The white sand bunkers against the green foothills create striking visual contrast. Conditioning is excellent and the mountain setting provides a memorable experience beyond the golf itself.

Playing Tips

Altitude at Bear Dance adds significant distance to every shot. Club down from your normal selections, especially on the par 3s. The thin air also reduces spin, so shots may not hold greens as expected.

Elevation changes are dramatic. Pay attention to whether holes play uphill or downhill and adjust accordingly. The closing stretch is particularly demanding.

Highlights

  • Consistently ranked #1 public course in Colorado
  • 7,516-yard layout through scrub oak foothills
  • Spectacular Front Range mountain views

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the public play Bear Dance?
Yes. It is a public daily-fee course with green fees from $55 to $100.
Is it really the top public course in Colorado?
Yes. Bear Dance has been ranked the top daily-fee course in the Denver area for over eight consecutive years.
Who designed it?
A team of four PGA of America members led by Brian Whitcomb, who later became PGA of America president.
How far from Denver?
Bear Dance is in Larkspur, approximately 45 minutes south of Denver.

Explore This Destination

Stay in the Loop

Get weekly rankings updates, destination guides, and insider tips delivered to your inbox.