Golf in the State of Idaho
Idaho, nicknamed the “Gem State” in honor of its natural beauty, is neighbors with British Columbia, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming and Utah. The state is especially known for its production of potatoes rather than golf, but numerous beautiful and challenging venues exist among its 121 courses, 26 of which are in capital city Boise, 15 in Coeur d’Alene, 9 in Idaho Falls, 8 in Twin Falls, 6 in Rexburg, and those in various smaller centers, including Meridian with 5, Pocatello with 4 and Lewiston with 3. Mountain ranges, plains and forests combine to yield spectacular geographic features for use by aspiring golf course designers.
The Coeur d’Alene Resort is famous for its Scott Miller designed par-3 14th hole, which has a movable, floating green that can only be reached by boat. The 18-hole public Blackfoot Golf Course, Blackfoot, was designed by George Von Elm, who incorporated numerous water features into his beautiful design. The historical 18-hole University of Idaho Golf Course, Moscow, replete with striking scenery and pleasing views, takes advantage of the University’s year round loving care. Views of the striking Owyhee Mountains and Lake Lowell can be seen from the championship, 18-hole Red Hawk Golf Course, Nampa. The River Bend Course, Wilder, situated along the Snake River, offers great golf and low prices.
Tyler Aldridge, born in Caldwell, played golf at Boise State University and turned pro thereafter. Don Bies, born in Cottonwood, turned pro in 1957 and won several events over the years but has since retired to concentrate his efforts on a restaurant he opened near Seattle. Babe Hiskey, born in Burley, won several pro tour events and then retired from the tour to become a golf course designer. Graham DeLaet is a Canadian, born in Weyburn, Saskatchewan but attended Boise State University and was Canadian amateur of the year in 2007. Shirley Engleorn, born in Caldwell, won 11 LPGA events and later retired from the LPGA tour to become a golf instructor.