Colbert Hills Golf Course

Colbert Hills Golf Course in Manhattan, Kansas, offers a striking departure from typical Midwestern layouts with its compelling mountain-style design stretched across the Flint Hills landscape. This public 18-hole championship course challenges players with rolling terrain that guides golfers through sweeping views of native tallgrass prairie, crafting an experience as much about the surroundings as the golf. Each hole presents its own character, blending strategic complexity with natural contours that reward thoughtful shot placement.

The course stretches just over 7,000 yards at par 72, demanding both length and finesse. Large, undulating greens require precise approach shots while bunkers, often with distinctive purple-tinted sand, protect the putting surfaces aggressively. The mix of elevation changes and open vistas means wind is a steady factor, subtly influencing club selection and shot shape. This makes Colbert Hills equally engaging for seasoned players seeking a test and ambitious amateurs eager to navigate its challenges.

Beyond the course itself, Colbert Hills offers practice facilities that cater to honing every aspect of the game, including a driving range, short game area, and putting green. The clubhouse provides a welcoming atmosphere where players can relax and refresh, enjoying views of the course and Flint Hills beyond. Dining options focus on fresh, locally inspired fare, enhancing the sense of place after a round.

Walkers will appreciate the course’s thoughtfully designed pathways and manageable elevation shifts, though sturdy shoes are advisable for navigating the hillier stretches comfortably. The course is equally accessible to carts, allowing families and casual rounds to move at a comfortable pace.

Colbert Hills stands out as a public gem in Kansas golf, blending innovative design with natural beauty and playability. It’s a destination for golfers willing to embrace its demands and savor the distinctive character of the Flint Hills, offering an experience both memorable and meticulously crafted.