Green Mountain National isn’t just the best muni in Vermont; it’s a course that stacks up with the top public tracks anywhere in New England. Set in the mountains, it’s the right mix of nature, quality, and playability that keeps you coming back. The layout effectively utilizes the terrain, incorporating elevation changes, natural hazards, and scenic views throughout.
Hole 2 is a standout and intimidating on a first play. The tee shot is blind and downhill, marked only by a birdhouse in tall grass for your line. Beyond that, the fairway drops hard with a pond on the right. The landing area is big, but no matter where you hit it, your second shot is the same: an approach over water to a green that sits 90 degrees to the right. It’s a tough hole, but once you know it, it’s one of the best in Vermont.
Killington, VT
7th Hole
The course overall features narrow, tree-lined fairways that demand accuracy, sloping greens that roll quickly, and numerous elevation changes that require thoughtful club selection. The greens were speedy, so hitting approaches in the right spots was crucial. I hit a few in regulation but still struggled to make par. Most greens are guarded by front bunkers, forcing you to either find the gap or get creative with a flop shot. Hole 16 stands out for its mountain backdrop, one of the best views on the course.
For a muni, the conditioning is extraordinary – pristine tees, fairways, and greens that rival private tracks. It’s tough from the tips, but the multiple tee boxes make it playable for any golfer. Locals play it often, but if you’re traveling, it’s the type of course you want to add to your trip.
Green Mountain has a full grass range, a large chipping green with a bunker, and a putting green right next to the first tee. The pro shop carries all the essentials, as well as some gear that you’ll only find here. The bar/restaurant sits next to the shop and makes an easy stop at the turn or after the round.
Off the course, Killington is a great spot to make a trip out of. There are numerous hotels and rentals nearby, as well as breweries and outdoor activities suitable for families. My wife and I played in the summer and stayed in a cabin on a farm just two minutes from Long Trail Brewery, which was the perfect combination of golf and Vermont beer.
Built in the late 1990s to add a summer draw to the ski town, Green Mountain National has gone beyond that. It’s not just a local muni; it’s a must-play New England course that belongs on any golfer’s list.
