The Best Places to Play Golf near Fairbanks
Midnight Sun Golf Course sits just northeast of Fairbanks and is celebrated as the northernmost USGA course in the United States, open daily from mid-May to mid-September and illuminated with daylight late into the night in summer months.[11] The 18-hole layout provides panoramic views of the Alaska Range and Denali, with distinctive rustic links features, a driving range, and a cozy club house (the Aurora Lodge) featuring local fare and year-round activities including a virtual simulator.[11][2]
Chena Bend Golf Course on Fort Wainwright is recognized as Alaska’s top military golf facility, regularly acclaimed by Golf Digest, and is open to the public with a civilian access process.[9] This course traces the Chena River, featuring a par-72, 6,476-yard design, unique signature holes including the riverside 14th, and full amenities such as a 24-hour driving range, pro shop, winter simulators, and leagues for all player categories.[9][22][15]
Fairbanks Golf Course is the oldest operational golf facility in Interior Alaska (est. 1946), presenting a walkable 9-hole, 3,132-yard layout with three sets each of par 3s, par 4s, and par 5s, and home to The Edge Restaurant for year-round dining.[17][10][31]
North Star Golf Club lies five miles outside Fairbanks on Golf Club Drive, operating as the country’s northernmost 18-hole public golf course since 1993.[41][44] The course was designed by Hawley R. Evans & Jack Stallings, with moderate technical difficulty, consistent moose sightings, and generous packages for visiting golfers, all managed from a compact clubhouse.[41][23]
Fairbanks Golf & Country Club lies on Farmers Loop Road and is a semi-private club, originally opened in 1946, that features a 3,132-yard layout and historic status within the Fairbanks area.[31][28]
Other public and semi-public courses within 20 miles include smaller layouts and a variety of playing formats, but the above destinations form the core of Fairbanks’ distinctive northern golf scene.[6][8]
Fun Facts about Golf Courses near Fairbanks
- The Midnight Sun Golf Course sometimes hosts tee times at midnight in June and July due to 24-hour sunlight.[11]
- Chena Bend Golf Course’s 14th hole is bordered by both the Chena River and a pond, known locally for unusual wildlife encounters.[15]
- Fairbanks Golf Course claims the title of "Farthest North 9 Hole Golf Course."[17]
- North Star Golf Club frequently reports moose and other Alaskan wildlife mingling on fairways.[42]
- Chena Bend’s golf simulator and cross-country ski trails make it a hub for winter recreation as well.[9]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the oldest golf course near Fairbanks?
Fairbanks Golf Course was founded in 1946 and remains the oldest operational facility, with historical roots in the heart of Alaska. [17][31]
Can you play golf in Fairbanks under the midnight sun?
Yes, Midnight Sun Golf Course permits play well past midnight during peak summer months, utilizing the region’s constant daylight. [11]
Which Fairbanks course is on a military base and how can civilians access it?
Chena Bend Golf Course is within Fort Wainwright and civilians can apply for a Recreation Pass to play. [9]
Are there public 9-hole playing options in Fairbanks?
Yes, Fairbanks Golf Course and the 9-hole league events at Chena Bend Golf Course provide accessible play for all golfers. [9][17]
What unique wildlife might golfers encounter on Fairbanks’ courses?
Players commonly encounter moose and local wildlife, especially at North Star Golf Club and Midnight Sun Golf Course. [42][23]
References
[2] midnightsungolfak.com
[6] coursefinder.golf.com
[8] fairbanks-alaska.com
[9] wainwright.armymwr.com
[10] golfpass.com
[11] midnightsungolfak.com/golf-course
[15] army.mil/article/108560
[17] fairbanksgolfcourse.com/home
[22] wainwright.armymwr.com/directory/68767
[23] tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review
[28] chronogolf.ca/club/fairbanks-golf-country-club
[31] golfalaska.com/golfcourses/fairbanks-golf-country-club
[41] 1golf.eu/en/club/north-star-golf-course/
[42] hole19golf.com/courses/north-star-golf-club
[44] skygolf.com/courses/course/307/North_Star_Golf_Club.html