Pinnacle Real Estate of Ruidoso, New Mexico, invites you to experience the seven exceptional golf courses nestled in the Sacramento Mountains and one 9 hole, par 3 course. If golf and country club living are your style, there’s a lot to enjoy in Ruidoso, Alto, and Inn of The Mountain Gods.
Some of the courses on this list are for members only, but if you decide you’re as entranced by this area as we are, you may decide to join! And if you’re looking to buy a home in one of the area’s exclusive country club communities, Pinnacle Real Estate, Your Club Pro in Real Estate, would be happy to help.
In the Ruidoso area, golf courses are unlike the flat courses like you may find in other areas of Southern New Mexico. As you line up your shots, you’ll find yourself captivated by the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountaintops, including Sierra Blanca, as well as the verdant fairways and native wildlife.
Ruidoso’s average altitude of 6,900 feet means occasional winter snowfall, but overall, you can enjoy the golf courses year-round, throughout all four seasons. With average snowfall and low temperatures hovering around the thirties, Ruidoso’s summer temperatures are comparatively cooler than the surrounding desert, creating a more pleasant golfing experience. Just remember to acclimate yourself to the altitude and stay hydrated while enjoying your time on the links.
If you are considering living in Ruidoso, either full-time or part-time, explore the available home listings in the area. You might just find your dream country club home waiting for you!
Now, let’s delve into the delightful world of Ruidoso’s golf courses.
Alto Lakes Golf & Country Club
Alto Lakes Golf & Country Club is a private country club boasting two 18-hole championship golf courses for its members’ enjoyment: Alto Lakes and The Outlaw at Alto Lakes. Located in Alto Golf Estates, Alto Lakes was designed by Milton Coggins, ASGCA, Pete Dye, ASGCA, and Robert Trent Jones, ASGCA, and opened in 1968. On the other hand, The Outlaw, designed by John LaFoy, ASGCA, debuted in 2008. Find a new golfing buddy who is a member and you may have the chance to savor a day of golfing in the splendid surroundings of Alto. Pinnacle Real Estate is the expert on homes at Alto Lakes Golf & Country Club, and we’d love to help you find your new home in this exciting area.
Alto Lakes: One Country Club Drive, Alto; 575-336-4231
The Outlaw: 190 Lincoln Hills Dr., Alto; 800-841-0168
Cree Meadows Public Golf Course, Ruidoso
Cree Meadows Public Golf Course is a stunning golf course open to the public, offering affordable daily rates. Residents also have the option to purchase memberships at various levels. While the course can present challenges in terms of difficulty, the terrain makes for a relatively easy walk. One of the highlights for golfers is the signature 17th hole — a 140-yard, par 3 that requires a tee shot over water onto a small elevated green. During your visit, take some time to explore the lounge, restaurant, and pro shop, where you can find everything you need, from equipment and attire to friendly advice before you tee off.
301 Country Club Dr., Ruidoso; 575-257-2733
Inn Of The Mountain Gods Championship Golf Course, Mescalero
Don’t miss the opportunity to play 18 holes at the Inn of the Mountain Gods’ championship golf course. Owned and operated by the Mescalero Apache tribe, this resort offers much more than just golf, including luxurious lodging and casino entertainment. Designed by Ted Robinson, the course features an island fairway and fast-breaking greens that pose a challenge to golfers. Golf Digest has recognized the Inn of the Mountain Gods as the 23rd-best Casino Golf Course, while Top100GolfCourses.com ranks it as the 15th-best course in New Mexico. The New Mexico Open Championship has been played multiple times at The Inn.
287 Carrizo Canyon Road, Mescalero; 575-464-7945
Innsbrook Village Country Club & Resort, Ruidoso
The Innsbrook Village Country Club & Resort offers a 9-hole, par 3 golf course exclusively for those renting from Innsbrook Condos. You can even rent a condo with a view of the golf course, enhancing your experience. What sets this course apart is the absence of tee times — simply grab your bag and head out for a round whenever it suits your vacation schedule.
146 Geneva Dr., Ruidoso; 877-733-6377
Kokopelli Golf Club, Alto
While most of the area’s golf courses are associated with private clubs or resorts, the Kokopelli Golf Club in nearby Alto offers a 4,000-yard, par 63 executive course that guarantees a round of golf won’t take up half your day. Situated on a soaring mesa with canyon and mountain views, this course provides an enjoyable and challenging experience, as affirmed by PGA golf pro Kirk Taylor. Alto Lakes is currently negotiating with Kokopelli, and it may become part of Alto Lakes Golf & Country Club in 2023.
1200 High Mesa Road, Alto; 575-336-1818
Rainmakers Resort And Golf Club, Alto
The private Rainmakers Resort and Golf Club features an 18-hole layout designed by Robert Trent Jones II. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, this conservation-oriented course has earned Audubon Signature Sanctuary status. With a length of over 7,000 yards and six sets of tee boxes for each hole, even low handicappers will find themselves challenged. It has been ranked as the number one residential golf course in New Mexico and the seventh-best golf course in the state by Top100GolfCourses.com. The Rainmaker Golf Course perfectly combines beauty with a formidable challenge.
250 Rainmaker Dr., Alto; 575-336-7500
The Links At Sierra Blanca, Ruidoso
The Links at Sierra Blanca offers a par 72 Scottish-style track, transformed from the old regional airport. It presents a tale of two nines, with the front nine featuring numerous mounds that provide an authentic links feel. The back nine gracefully winds through the pines, where elk herds can often be spotted. Ranked as the ninth-best course in New Mexico by Golf Advisor, The Links at Sierra Blanca encompasses a spacious practice facility and a course that accommodates both seasoned golfers and beginners.
105 Sierra Blanca Dr., Ruidoso; 575-258-5330. If you’re ready to grab your clubs and head out for nine or 18 holes, why not call us at Your Club Pro in Real Estate, Pinnacle Real Estate and Development? We can tell you more about life in Ruidoso and maybe even help you get a tee time!
