Played July 3, 2018
Reviewed by Mr. Tee
Second round for the day takes me back east down I-70 to another Colorado ski resort town, Vail. The skiing up at both Vail and Beaver Creek is legendary. People travel all around the world in the winter to take in epic slopes. The mountain setting and cooler summer temperatures have extended travel season for mountain resort towns to year round. Back in the early 00’s, I visited the area on trips to see friends in Denver. As I walked up to Gore Creek Mini Golf in Vail, I realized that this wasn’t my first time playing at Vail. The Gore Creek course opened in 2011 but I know I’ve played mini golf in the area years ago.
Rating
Par – The 7-year-old miniature golf course is holding up well. Each hole is themed for wildlife in the area with a cement imprint and corresponding sign with facts on the animals. The metal work and details on the signs stand out the most in my memory. The turf is a little worn down but plays well. I would have preferred if the concrete set for the accessible exit would have been elevated an inch or two higher than the turf. I witnessed many balls flying out of bounds ball due to this oversight. In summary, solid, albeit slightly pricey, mini golf course in a picturesque setting.
Pros
Signage, scorecards, and didactics are some of the best we’ve seen
Beautiful view of the mountains and Vail village
Solid putting area and use of sloping
Well maintained
Cons
Not much in the way of obstacles
$10 for 9 straightforward forward holes
The accessible exit for each hole could have been better located
Nerdy Notes
- 9 Holes. No Par listed. $10 / round
- Situated at the base of the Born Free Express Lift (#8) across from the Lionshead ticket office
- Much like the Beaver Creek course, you’re required to sign a waiver before playing
