Kananaskis Country Golf Course
The 36-hole Kananaskis Country Golf Course (1 Lorette Dr., 403/591-7070) is bisected by the Kananaskis River and surrounded by magnificent mountain peaks. It comprises two 18-hole courses: Mount Kidd, featuring undulating terrain and an island green on the 197-yard fourth hole, and Mount Lorette. Both courses measure more than 7,000 yards from the back markers. Renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., who designed the original layout, described the Kananaskis River Valley as “the best spot I have ever seen for a golf course.” After marveling at the surrounding mountains, few will disagree with his statement. Just don’t let the over 140 bunkers, water that comes into play on more than half the holes, or the large rolling greens distract you. Golfers enjoy the use of the driving range, a restaurant and bar with awesome mountain views, and a well-stocked golf shop.
2013 Flood
In June 2013, Kananaskis Country Golf Course was destroyed by flooding. In 2014 the Alberta government announced that money had been set aside for a restoration project originally slated for completion in 2016. A change of provincial government in early 2015 saw the project put on hold, but in September 2015 it was announced that both courses would indeed be restored, and by 2018 the course had been rebuilt and was reopened. The reincarnation of one of Alberta’s premier golf courses was a major undertaking, but one that mimics the original layouts almost identically.
This was the letter sent to the media by club manager Darren Robinson immediately following the 2013 flood:
Dear Friends:
It is with a heavy heart that we announce Kananaskis Country Golf Course is closed for the 2013 season. Record rainfall has caused severe flooding throughout our valley, making both the Mt. Kidd and Mt. Lorette layouts impassable. While we cannot measure damage until the waters of our rivers and creek beds recede, it will be some time before the courses will be playable. Full refunds will be given to all with a confirmed tee time, including corporate golf groups. For the time being, we ask that calls to the golf course are limited to those urgent in nature, as we will be operating with limited staff during this time. We are thankful that our staff and their families remain safe, and deeply appreciate your support and patience as our community recovers. We will continue to update our website with news as is warranted.
Our thoughts remain with those in our region during this time.
Sincerely, Darren Robinson, General Manager
A flooded Kananaskis Country Golf Course in June 2013. CREDIT: Calgary Herald.