Hart Ranch Golf Club

Dick Phelps's 1987 routing in the foothills of the Black Hills outside Rapid City, originally 9 holes, expanded to 18 in 1995. Set at 3,200 feet of elevation with the pine-covered slopes of the Black Hills wrapping the back nine, Hart Ranch has become the de facto top public pick for Mount Rushmore-bound golfers. The front nine plays flat across ranch terrain; the back nine climbs into pines with a handful of memorable elevation-change holes. The redesigned par-5 3rd (2020 update, added length, bunkers, and a tricky runoff left of the green) is a signature risk-reward test. Greens read pure and roll among the best in South Dakota, conditioning is a standout given the visitor traffic. Voted #1 Public Course in South Dakota by Golfweek for 2023, 2024, and 2025, three years running. A Black Hills road-trip must-play; pair with Sutton Bay or a drive up to Sanctuary if you're extending the trip.