Northstar Golf Course
Northstar Golf Course in Truckee, California delivers an engaging 18-hole mountain golf experience framed by stunning Sierra Nevada views. Approachable yet strategic, this public layout balances natural beauty with dynamic challenges ideal for a variety of skill levels.
Course Overview
Set against the rugged Sierra Nevada backdrop in Truckee, California, Northstar Golf Course offers a distinct mountain-golf experience just steps from the vibrant Northstar California Resort. This 18-hole, public layout combines natural terrain with thoughtful design to create a course that challenges without alienating players of varied skill levels. The setting commands attention with sweeping views of pine forests, alpine meadows, and historic granite outcrops that shape each hole’s character.
The course’s design integrates elevation changes and natural water features, requiring golfers to navigate doglegs, strategically placed bunkers, and rolling greens that reward precision. Particularly notable is the back nine, where several holes curve around small lakes and cascading creeks, adding a dynamic element to shot selection and club strategy. The mountain air often influences ball flight, especially on the longer par-4s and par-5s, making club choices and course management essential.
Northstar Golf Course embraces an approachable challenge; fairways are fairly generous while greens present subtle slopes that test a player’s putting touch without feeling punitive. The course layout suits a wide range of golfers, from enthusiastic amateurs who seek scenic enjoyment to more experienced players looking for strategic engagement and shot variety.
After your round, the clubhouse offers a relaxed atmosphere with dining options that complement the lodge-style ambiance, making it a pleasant spot to unwind and reflect on the round. Golf carts are available with GPS technology, though many players find the walk rewarding, thanks to the manageable elevation profile and well-maintained cart paths.
Seasonal conditions vary, with summer and early fall showcasing the course at its best, when turf recovers fully from winter’s alpine challenges. For those planning a visit, sturdy footwear is recommended, and early tee times can take advantage of crisp morning air and softer greens.
Northstar Golf Course stands as a solid choice for travelers and locals alike, offering a mountain-golf setting with practical playability and a friendly staff that enhances the overall experience.
Course Highlights
The course showcases natural Sierra Nevada features with elevation changes, water hazards, and subtly contoured greens. The back nine incorporates several doglegs and water-bordered holes creating tactical challenges. Its integration with the Northstar resort area enhances accessibility and amenities, making the layout both scenic and practical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Amy Galvan
Check in attendant was all on his own yet kind and helpful. Course was beautiful but quite wet in areas and too tough for me with hidden water hazards and curves.
John Jennings
My favorite local Truckee/North Lake course just keeps getting better each year after rough couple years over COVID. Been playing here every other week and greens are rolling better than some of the $300+ round courses in the area. Love the full service staff and all around laid back atmosphere. A must if you're a local or coming up for the weekend. Keep up the great work Northstar!
Jason Phillips
Staff was very accommodating and friendly from the moment we arrived until the moment we left. The cart personnel, grill staff, starter and shop staff were all great. However, my low rating comes from course conditions. I am new to the area and this is my first time playing Northstar. After reading other reviews and having played other courses in the area that are in great shape I just booked a tee time online. I did not think to call and ask about course conditions. Needless to say I was VERY disappointed as I made my way around Northstar. At least 2 temporary greens and most of the regular greens were very bumpy as they have not recovered from aeration. Many fairways and tee boxes were also bare. I was told by staff that all the damage to the course is from the hard winter. That is understandable, I just wish that information was stated on the website.
Travis C
ET 3647 (Gadget Geek)
The service at the course was excellent. The course layout & design is very good and I enjoyed walking the course. It was fun & challenging. The back nine had multiple dog legs and water on most of the holes.
Anthony Mabee
The 1016 crew and I have been going to Northstar golf course for the last 10+ years, this is the place to be. They have everything, food, cart girls and fast greens. I’ll be going here for years to come.
James Zubillaga
We played the course July 20th. The staff always professional. The condition of the course is close to being non playable. Fairways aren’t bad. The greens so bad they had posted signs that read automatic 2 putts. Bunkers should be marked under repair. It’s my opinion in order to save the reputation of the Northstar complex management should suspend play until the course is repaired. Photo 1-bunker 2-tee box photo 3 green
Charlie Karagosian
Grasshoppers everywhere and you can’t even putt on 4 of the greens !
Anthony Mabee
The 1016 crew and I have been going to Northstar golf course for the last 10+ years, this is the place to be. They have everything, food, cart girls and fast greens. I’ll be going here for years to come.
Bob Woods
Course has very different front and back 9 that are fun and challenging. Staff was very very friendly and helpful - would play again.
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Course Details
Access & Location
168 Basque Dr, Truckee, CA 96161, USA
Northstar Lodge Clubhouse with dining and pro shop
Walking is encouraged and manageable with well-groomed cart paths; sturdy shoes advised due to varied terrain.
Reservations recommended, especially during peak season and weekends.
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