A sneak peek at Rodeo Dunes
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Reading a green at Rodeo Dunes Golf Course. Photo: Mitchell Byars/Axios
Rodeo Dunes, a multicourse golf complex in Weld County, is preparing to open its first course to the public in 2027.
Why it matters: Rodeo Dunes represents a big-time Colorado bet on growing golf tourism, with customers seeking inclusive experiences rather than individual courses.
Driving the news: Rodeo Dunes is the latest golf development from the family behind Bandon Dunes in Oregon and Sand Valley in Wisconsin.
- Like those, Rodeo Dunes is envisioned as a golf mecca, with six courses, practice facilities, lodging and dining.
State of play: The course sits on 4,000 acres in Roggen, about an hour's drive from Boulder and Denver.
- Much of the resort is still under construction, and a trailer serves as the pro shop for now.
- The first course is complete, but tee times are limited to early property investors. The public opening is anticipated next summer.
Yes, but: The course invited media members, including yours truly, to whack and hack their way through the bushes.
What to expect: The Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore-designed links-style course winds through dunes, with bunkers and sandy areas serving as the only hazards on the tree- and water-free 18 holes.
- The forgiving fairways give some decent approach opportunities. But the large, multilevel putting surfaces mean getting to the green in regulation doesn't guarantee a par.
- The exposed setting also means heat and wind can be major factors, especially on a walking-only course.
My thought bubble: I wasn't on my A-game, largely because it was 105 degrees and windy.
- But the course is gorgeous and challenging in a fun way, and you can see how much room there is for full-fledged restaurants and hotels.
Friction point: With green fees possibly running $350 plus a $150 caddie fee, some have questioned whether Rodeo Dunes will be accessible to many locals.
- Environmental advocates have also raised concerns about the water demands of six courses in the middle of the plains, especially in the midst of a drought.
The bottom line: The success of its sister resorts and hype around Rodeo Dunes could make Weld County a destination for golf fanatics.
- Whether residents and casual golfers find the same enjoyment will likely depend on pricing and availability.