Cottonwood Hills Golf Club
Cottonwood Hills Golf Club in Bozeman presents an accessible yet strategically crafted 18-hole parkland experience amid Montana’s foothills. With a dedicated par-3 course and well-maintained practice facilities, it suits golfers seeking variety, scenic surroundings, and a course that challenges both novices and seasoned players.
Course Overview
Cottonwood Hills Golf Club offers a fine blend of challenge and enjoyment set against the rugged beauty of Bozeman, Montana. This 18-hole public course stretches over a layout that invites golfers of all skill levels to engage with its varied terrain and thoughtfully designed holes. The course’s parkland style weaves through a landscape that balances open fairways with pockets of mature timber and natural Montana flora, creating a playing environment that feels expansive yet intimate.
From the first tee, players experience a course that rewards strategy and shot-shaping rather than sheer power. The fairways roll gently with subtle slopes that demand precision, while greens present undulations that test putting touch. Cottonwood Hills is approachable for novice golfers yet provides enough complexity to keep low handicappers alert, especially when the winds sweep in from the nearby hills.
A notable feature is the dedicated par-3 nine-hole course, offering a quick and enjoyable round for players pressed for time or seeking focused short-game practice. The main 18 includes holes framed by cottonwood trees, from which the course takes its name, giving the experience a distinct regional character. Fairway bunkers sit strategically to catch errant drives, and water hazards occasionally come into play, prompting careful club selection.
The club’s practice facilities are well-maintained, featuring a driving range and putting greens that support player development. Staff attentiveness reflects a genuine commitment to guest experience, despite some feedback regarding pace of play on busier days; golfers can expect courteous assistance and a solid sense of community among regulars.
Cottonwood Hills invites players looking for a mountain foothill course that balances beauty with playability, suitable for casual rounds or more serious competition. Golfers should plan accordingly for occasional delays during peak times and bring gear that handles varied weather conditions, including wind and cooler Montana temperatures. Walking is possible, but players will find carts an efficient choice given the terrain and pace of the course.
Overall, Cottonwood Hills delivers a practical, enjoyable Montana golf experience marked by natural scenery, a welcoming atmosphere, and a course design that respects its environment while catering to diverse golfing appetites.
Course Highlights
Distinct parkland routing highlighting cottonwood trees, a separate nine-hole par-3 course, strategic bunkering, and subtle elevation changes. The course offers a natural Montana landscape with a balance between playability for all skill levels and enough variety to engage competitive golfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Theodore Bagley
I played 2 days ago and a very unfortunate experience. I have consistently gone to this course this Summer and usually have a great time, especially the option to do the par 3 course. If it was not for the my previous experience here I would give a 1 star review for my last experience there. The staff is usually fairly and unintrusive, but yesterday with a guy who was pretty rude when I came in for check in. He had a very uninterested and short tone and just wanted to get me out of there as quickly as possible. Did not even respond when I said thank you. I let it go as I did not want it to affect my round. After this my group had to wait a while past our tee time since the group in front of us was slow. This was fine except for the group behind us hitting into our backs, we were there to enjoy ourselves, not play super fast. On the second hole we are waiting where our drives landed for the group in front of us to finish on the green. Then the same guy from club house comes up my friend and I (he himself is a member at Cottonwood) and rudely accuses us of slowing the pace of play when if he took a second and looked ahead he would see that we were waiting ourselves. The exact question to start it off was "have you ever played golf before?" Even if we were slow that is not the way to handle an interaction with a customer and especially a member at your course. I have enjoyed this course, but would look at every other course in the valley for a tee time before coming back after this interaction that frustrated our group and clearly irritated the group in front of us based on what we could hear of their interaction (I can only assume the employee handled them with the same level of decorum). Good course, decent staff minus that guy. I would recommend to others, but I personally have a bad taste in my mouth
Matthew Barefield
Is it busy? Yes. And for a good reason. The course is great. You’ll find plenty of challenging shots and the greens are phenomenal. What you need to know the most is: The people who run this course care. They give a $hit. People matter to them and your experience matters. I’ve been golfing here for 20+ years and the only thing that’s changed is how many people love golfing here. Enjoy your round, the views, and don’t hesitate to get a lesson from one of the many capable, experienced pros. This course means a lot to my family and we are blessed to play it. Thanks to all the staff and Johanna for always giving us the best. Never had a bad day!!!!! Matt
Caleb Koltz
The par 3 is a great course to get a quick round of fun golf in!
Mel Nelson
Levi Parks
Great place to play. Nice help.
Larry Simmert
Challenges golfers to choose clubs and angles wisely.
Caleb Koltz
The par 3 is a great course to get a quick round of fun golf in!
Theodore Bagley
I played 2 days ago and a very unfortunate experience. I have consistently gone to this course this Summer and usually have a great time, especially the option to do the par 3 course. If it was not for the my previous experience here I would give a 1 star review for my last experience there. The staff is usually fairly and unintrusive, but yesterday with a guy who was pretty rude when I came in for check in. He had a very uninterested and short tone and just wanted to get me out of there as quickly as possible. Did not even respond when I said thank you. I let it go as I did not want it to affect my round. After this my group had to wait a while past our tee time since the group in front of us was slow. This was fine except for the group behind us hitting into our backs, we were there to enjoy ourselves, not play super fast. On the second hole we are waiting where our drives landed for the group in front of us to finish on the green. Then the same guy from club house comes up my friend and I (he himself is a member at Cottonwood) and rudely accuses us of slowing the pace of play when if he took a second and looked ahead he would see that we were waiting ourselves. The exact question to start it off was "have you ever played golf before?" Even if we were slow that is not the way to handle an interaction with a customer and especially a member at your course. I have enjoyed this course, but would look at every other course in the valley for a tee time before coming back after this interaction that frustrated our group and clearly irritated the group in front of us based on what we could hear of their interaction (I can only assume the employee handled them with the same level of decorum). Good course, decent staff minus that guy. I would recommend to others, but I personally have a bad taste in my mouth
Bryanna Barnholtz
It's a nice golf course, but the last two times I've been the guy rushed us on hole 1. The last time he was trying to rush us while we were waiting for the group in front of us and when we told him that he went to go rush them. We made it clear he didn't need to and weren't in a hurry. Wouldn't recommend it for newbies with a little slower pace.
Shelley Wagnild
Fun course and friendly staff. We golfed both the nine hole par three and the 18 hole course. Enjoyed them both!! Highly recommend.
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Course Details
Access & Location
8955 River Rd, Bozeman, MT 59718, USA
Main clubhouse with pro shop and dining facilities
Walking is allowed and often enjoyed, though the hilly terrain suggests wearing supportive shoes; golf carts are available and recommended for those seeking a faster pace.
Open to daily fee players; reservations recommended in summer months.
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