The Best Places to Play Golf near Juneau
The five closest public golf courses to Juneau are predominantly centered around the town itself, led by Mendenhall Golf Course, a 9-hole, par-3 facility renowned for its Alaskan scenery, family ownership, and proximity to Mendenhall Glacier.[3] This property, originally developed in 1986 by Tom File on part of the historic Pederson Dairy, sits ten miles from downtown and is notable for its salmon-bearing streams and chances to spot wildlife like deer and eagles.[10] With a season running from April 1st to October 1st and a layout ranging from 111-191 yards per hole, Mendenhall is the only dedicated 9-hole public golf course within 20 miles of Juneau.[11] If exploring slightly further, the next closest public options are in Gustavus, Wrangell, Haines, and Sitka, each well outside the 20-mile radius and thus not counted here for main selection.[5]
Other intriguing features of golf near Juneau include the rare instance of an urban "Million Dollar Golf Course" once covering today’s industrial hub—so named both for its location atop mine waste rock and for the possibility of residual gold in the fill.[13] While no longer in use, this remains a local curiosity. Mendenhall Golf Course itself remains the main and only formal public venue for regular play, serving as Juneau’s principal hub for practicing and enjoying Alaskan golf amid extraordinary landscapes.[3]
Fun Facts about Golf Courses near Juneau
- Mendenhall Golf Course was developed on the grounds of a historic dairy farm and remains family-run since 1986.[11]
- The entire course provides direct views of the Mendenhall Glacier and active wildlife such as soaring eagles.[11]
- Mendenhall features only par-3 holes, making it popular for practicing approach shots and short game skills.[10]
- Salmon can spawn in the stream that meanders throughout the course during summer months.[11]
- Juneau’s "Million Dollar Golf Course" nickname referred to an informal sand and grass area built on gold mining fill, used for casual golf well into the 20th century.[13]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the oldest golf course near Juneau?
Mendenhall Golf Course was founded in 1986 and is the only traditional public venue within 20 miles of Juneau. [11]
Are there any 18-hole public golf courses within 20 miles of Juneau?
There are currently no public 18-hole golf courses within 20 miles of Juneau; Mendenhall Golf Course is a 9-hole layout.[3]
Can you see glaciers or wildlife while playing golf in Juneau?
Yes, Mendenhall Golf Course provides direct glacier views and it’s common to see eagles and other wildlife while on the course.[11]
When is golf season at Mendenhall Golf Course?
The season typically runs from April 1st through October 1st, weather permitting.[10]
Are there practice facilities available?
Yes, a driving range is available at Mendenhall Golf Course for the public.[10]
References
[3] https://www.juneaugolf.com/features/golf-links
[5] https://smclubsg.skygolf.com/courses/browse/US/AK/Juneau
[10] https://www.golfpass.com/travel-advisor/courses/3410-mendenhall-golf-course
[11] https://smclubsg.skygolf.com/courses/course/303/Mendenhall_Golf_Course.html
[13] https://www.juneauempire.com/news/juneau-rock-dumps-history-from-waste-site-to-million-dollar-golf-course-to-industrial-hub/