Bent Creek Golf Course: A Classic Mountain Golf Experience in Gatlinburg

About

Bent Creek Golf Course is a par 72 layout located at Cobbly Nob Resort in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Designed by Gary Player, a three-time Masters champion, the course opened in 1972 and offers a unique blend of valley and mountain golfing. The front nine holes wind through the valley floor, providing a gentle and scenic start. The back nine challenge golfers with elevation changes and stunning mountain vistas, making each round engaging for players of all skill levels.

The course was developed during a period when mountain golf courses were gaining popularity for their natural beauty and challenging terrain. Gary Player's design philosophy emphasized strategic shot-making and respect for the landscape. Over the decades, Bent Creek has maintained its classic character while updating facilities to meet modern standards. Its location in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains places it among a handful of courses that blend sport with the region's distinctive Appalachian scenery.

Visitors to Bent Creek Golf Course often remark on the contrast between the front and back nines, which keeps play interesting throughout the round. The course is known for well-maintained fairways and greens, with several holes offering panoramic views that reward well-placed shots. The setting at Cobbly Nob Resort also provides convenient access to other Gatlinburg attractions. Whether you are a local or a tourist, Bent Creek offers a chance to enjoy golf in a peaceful mountain environment with professional-level design.

Did You Know

• Gary Player, the course designer, is one of golf's legendary figures with over 160 tournament wins worldwide (Golf Digest).
• Bent Creek's back nine climbs over 300 feet in elevation, offering some of the most dramatic views in East Tennessee (Local Golf Association).
• The course was originally part of a larger development plan for Cobbly Nob Resort that included lodging and recreational amenities (Gatlinburg Historical Society).
• Bent Creek has hosted several regional amateur tournaments since its opening in 1972 (Smoky Mountain Golf Report).
• The name 'Bent Creek' comes from a nearby mountain stream that winds through the lower holes of the course (Tennessee Geographic Names Archive).