One of the best ways to enjoy the scenery at Glen Isle is to hike the 21-hole disc golf course. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or it’s your first time throwing a disc, there is something for everyone at the Glen Isle course. Admittedly, it is not an “easy” course. If you are a beginner looking to make par or focus on technique for flat terrain, there are other options for starting out. However, this is the perfect course if you are ready for a challenging hike with breathtaking views or looking for the satisfaction of throwing a disc nearly 600 feet.
The Glen Isle course was built so that visitors of all types can get outdoors for friendly competition and fun as well as take in the beautiful scenery and get some exercise. The Vincent family took some time to share more about the course and what makes this such a fun sport.
Is disc golf just throwing a frisbee?
Those of us who are not members of the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) may be wondering ‘What even is disc golf?’ Yes, it does involve throwing a disc or frisbee, and similar to golf, the object of the game is to get the disc from a tee area to a target in the shortest number of throws. While it can include tossing a frisbee with friends, the sport takes concentration and skill as well as physical fitness. Courses can be found in public parks and private venues for both casual and competitive play.
There are those who would argue that Colorado is home to some of the best disc golf courses in the world. The variety of terrain, beautiful scenery, and frequent dry, sunny days make for a perfect outdoor sport setting. The suburbs of Denver are home to dozens of courses in more traditional, flat parks. Whereas the courses in the foothills and mountains tend to be more technical with elevation gain and beautiful scenery.
What makes the Glen Isle DGC special?
The Glen Isle course was designed and built by the Vincent family who own the lodge. Donny Vincent, the oldest son of Greg and Mary Ruth Vincent is an active disc golfer. He suggested the idea of building a course on the resort property shortly after they purchased it in 2017. Over several years Donny and his father have been bringing his vision to life. They have spent countless hours hiking the property to design a fun and challenging layout that maximizes the terrain and scenery.
When Donny saw the potential for an awesome DGC he got involved with the local disc golf club, the Foothills Flyers. Fellow enthusiasts encouraged the development and provided input and recommendations on the design. Once a solid flow of 21 holes had been established father and son embarked on the challenge of getting materials to the remote mountain settings. They invested in PDGA-approved Prodigy baskets and concrete tee pads. At the time of writing this article, more updates are being planned for the infrastructure of the course including additional concrete pads and signage.
The course is now sought after by avid golfers and receives rave reviews. When asked to share his favorite holes, Donny didn’t hesitate to say #1 and #21, the first and last holes on the course. “It was intentionally designed this way. Hole #1 is located at the wedding venue for the resort and it has a beautiful backdrop. It’s kind of a trademark for the course overlooking the wilderness.” The course ends near the same location and #21 is one of his favorites because it is a “long, slightly difficult hole where you can really open up your arm.”
Tips for playing the Glen Isle course
The high-elevation course covers 8,000 feet of throwing distance and 360-degree views of Pike National Forest and the Lost Creek Wilderness area. It’s open to both the public and guests of the Glen Isle Resort. Participants can visit the front desk of the lodge to get more information and pay a small course fee or pay online.
The trail covers a little of everything. From open meadows to tall, shady pine trees, and rock outcroppings. The first half is a little more strenuous as it zig-zags up the mountain, while the back half is slightly easier. Be prepared with water and snacks as well as layers of clothes and sunscreen for the ever-changing weather in Colorado.
The time it takes to complete the hike depends on your skill level and the number of people playing. Plan for a solid three hours. Those who do not have their own discs can purchase some from the Glen Isle gift shop or try using the loaner bag from the front desk.
While the course was not designed for beginners, the Glen Isle staff encourages anyone to give it a try. You can capture some great photos of the scenery along the way and potentially see some wildlife. Or, disc golf might become your new favorite sport. If so, you’ll discover several outstanding courses along the 285 corridor. Including Bear Mountain, BuckSnort, and Beaver Ranch.
Plan your visit today
Located less than an hour from Denver, the Glen Isle DGC is great for a day trip. Visitors can escape the city and enjoy the fresh mountain air and the rushing river that runs right through the resort property. The town of Bailey has fantastic restaurants where you can grab a cold beer and burger after you play.
Another option is to make it an overnight adventure. There are 14 historical cabins available for your next getaway as well as 6 campsites. Get a group of friends or family together for some fun disc golf competition and don’t rush back home. Enjoy s’mores around a campfire, fishing in the Platte River, as well as hiking and biking on nearby trails.
Plan a tee time and book your stay today. We hope to see you on the course!