ASPEN, Colo. (Spring/Summer 2012) – As Aspen golfers know, there’s nothing quite like striking a ball at high altitude and seeing it soar over the undulating river benches and past dramatic mountain landscapes. Superb public courses offer private-club, peak experiences, and Aspen’s golf offerings take the age-old sport to new heights.

The following is a selection of the Roaring Fork Valley’s best golf clubs accessible to visitors:

• Aspen Golf Club - Ranked as one of Golf Week’s 50 Best Municipal Courses and the best Municipal Course in Colorado, Aspen Golf Club impresses with its stunning views; challenging 18-hole, Frank Hummel-designed course; and convenient location just minutes from downtown Aspen. Creating a private-club-atmosphere without the pretension, Aspen Golf Club also offers a PGA award-winning Golf Shop, practice hitting area, chipping and putting greens, cart rentals, full-service locker rooms, group and private instruction by PGA professionals, and the delicious Red Mountain Grill. www.aspengolf.com

• The Snowmass Club - Award-winning architect Jim Engh’s unique design pays tribute to the rugged heritage of ranching families that rooted here over the last century. The 7,008-yard, private course features an undulating design, creating a one-of-a-kind "Irish links course with mountain flair.” Tee times are available to the public after 1 p.m., and the driving range, putting green and short-game practice areas are available to golfers one hour prior to tee time. www.snowmassclub.com 
  

  Guests of The Little Nell and Limelight Lodge receive privileged access to The Snowmass Club as well as family day passes for non-golfing guests to enjoy the club’s other amenities. Guests of

• Ironbridge Golf Club - Located 30 minutes from Aspen, this private, 72-par course designed by Arthur Hills offers spectacular views of Mount Sopris. Four signature alpine holes are located hundreds of feet above the valley floor. www.ironbridgeclub.com
  

  Guests of St. Regis Aspen Resort have privileged access to Ironbridge.

• River Valley Ranch - This 18-hole course, designed by notable golf-course architect Jay Morrish, is another public course with a private-club atmosphere. Located about 40 minutes from Aspen in Carbondale, it offers a restaurant and bar as well as golf instruction and rentals. www.rvrgolf.com

• The Ranch at Roaring Fork – An affordable option located 40 minutes from Aspen in Carbondale, this nine-hole, par-27 course is ideal for families or a quick round between summer activities. www.ranchatroaringfork.com

For media information, contact Promo Communications at 970.925.8480 or

Maureen Poschman • [email protected]

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For visitor information,

visit www.aspenchamber.org, or call

1.888.290.1324 or 970.925.1940.

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