Bear Trace At Cumberland Mountain (TN Golf Trail)

About Bear Trace At Cumberland Mountain (TN Golf Trail)

Perched atop the Cumberland Plateau at nearly 2,000 feet elevation, this Jack Nicklaus-designed track offers some of the most dramatic elevation changes you'll find in Tennessee. The Golden Bear carved a challenging layout through the rolling hardwood forests, where several holes feature 100-foot drops from tee to green and approach shots that seem to disappear into the canopy below. The signature par-3 17th plays downhill to a green nestled in a natural amphitheater, while the closing hole climbs back uphill for a demanding finish that separates pretenders from contenders. The course delivers excellent conditioning for a public facility, with bentgrass greens that roll true and fairways that typically play firm and fast. At 3.9 stars from nearly 300 reviews, it's clearly not everyone's cup of tea – likely due to the punishing terrain that can turn a good round sideways quickly – but serious golfers appreciate the strategic challenge and stunning mountain vistas. Walking is permitted, though you'll earn every step navigating these elevation swings, making this more of a bucket-list experience than a regular weekly game venue.

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