Links at Sierra Blanca
1 / 10

Links at Sierra Blanca

4.1
·126 reviews·Ruidoso, United States

A stunning Scottish links-style golf course in Ruidoso, NM, renowned for its mountain views, abundant wildlife, and excellent conditions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer twilight hours

Affordable rates, cooler temps

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Links at Sierra Blanca

Links at Sierra Blanca

Best Time

Summer twilight hours

Affordable rates, cooler temps

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning Scottish links-style golf course in Ruidoso, NM, renowned for its mountain views, abundant wildlife, and excellent conditions.

4.1
(126 reviews)

"The best valued golf course I think I have ever played in my entire life."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tee Times Early

Secure your spot by booking in advance, especially for prime times.

💰 Look for Hot Deals

Check GolfNow for potential discounts and hot deals to save on green fees.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scottish Links-Style Challenge

Scottish Links-Style Challenge

Entire Course

Experience a unique Scottish links-style layout with stunning Sierra Blanca mountain views.

Abundant Wildlife Sightings

Abundant Wildlife Sightings

Fairways and Greens

Encounter elk, wild horses, and other native animals roaming freely on the course.

Immaculate Greens and Fairways

Immaculate Greens and Fairways

Greens and Fairways

Enjoy pristine playing conditions with lush fairways and exceptionally well-maintained greens.

Surreal Back Nine

Surreal Back Nine

Back Nine

The back nine offers a more challenging and character-filled experience with breathtaking vistas.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Tee Off with Smart Planning

Book tee times in advance, especially during peak season. Consider twilight rates for a more affordable round. Check weather forecasts as mountain weather can change rapidly.

Embrace the Wildlife Encounters

Be prepared for wildlife, including elk and wild horses, on the course. They add to the unique experience but can sometimes affect play. Respect their space and drive slowly.

Best Times

When
Summer twilight hours
Why
Affordable rates, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring and Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, vibrant scenery
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Links at Sierra Blanca is my new favorite course up in Ruidoso, NM #deathbybogey #golf #titleist #chasingaces #callawaygolf #thegrint #malbongolf #nikegolf #goodgood #thelinksatsierrablanca
deathbybogey
23 likes • 399 views

🎯 Book Tee Times Early

Secure your spot by booking in advance, especially for prime times. Reddit

💰 Look for Hot Deals

Check GolfNow for potential discounts and hot deals to save on green fees. Reddit

New Mexico is getting some much needed rain! But we didn’t let the rain put a damper on our runs!! We all got out there and got wet!! We went to a paved 5k trail that runs along the Links at Sierra Blanca Golf Course in Ruidoso. After a week of 3-4 mile hikes/walks, today I tried out 5/1 intervals. Walked 5 min/Slogged 1 min for 4 miles!! And it felt good!! Happy to be moving!! And in temps of ...
ironwillironjill
140 likes • 1.4K views
Hole 4 : Par 5 : 500 yards @linksatsierrablanca I was 2 feet from making Albatross. Tap in Eagle 🦅 #deathbybogey #golf #titleist #chasingaces #thegrint #malbongolf #nikegolf #linksatsierrablanca
deathbybogey
24 likes • 234 views

🐎 Respect Wildlife

Observe animals from a distance and drive slowly if they are on the fairway. TikTok

💨 Be Prepared for Wind

Mountain winds can be strong; factor this into your game strategy. TikTok

reddit.com

Rates for Inn of the Mountain Gods in New Mexico?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tee Times Early

Secure your spot by booking in advance, especially for prime times. Reddit

💰 Look for Hot Deals

Check GolfNow for potential discounts and hot deals to save on green fees. Reddit

🐎 Respect Wildlife

Observe animals from a distance and drive slowly if they are on the fairway. TikTok

💨 Be Prepared for Wind

Mountain winds can be strong; factor this into your game strategy. TikTok

☕ Grab a Snack

The clubhouse snack shack offers great hot dogs and sandwiches for a post-round bite.

What Travellers Say

4.1
(126 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Links at Sierra Blanca for its exceptional value, stunning Scottish links-style design, and the unique experience of encountering wildlife like elk and wild horses. The course conditions, particularly the greens, are frequently highlighted as top-notch, making it a memorable round for golfers of all levels. Some players note that animal feces can be present and that strong winds can impact play, especially during certain seasons.

"The best valued golf course I think I have ever played in my entire life. We saw horses, elk, and the greens are pure. The back 9 was surreal and Jim was the man super welcoming. Best time I’ve had in awhile
on the links."

Broc Galbreth

"I have played this course many, many times over the years. The course is beautifully designed with a classic Scottish links style, set against the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Blanca mountains. The layout is both challenging and enjoyable. You would never know this used to be the location of the Ruidoso airport. Beautiful views of the mountains and lots of wildlife here, even wild horses.
The course conditions were top-notch. The fairways were lush and well-maintained. It’s clear that a lot of care goes into keeping this course in excellent shape. The staff were friendly and accommodating.
One of the highlights was the unique setting of the course, which offers a refreshing change from typical desert courses. The clubhouse is cozy and well-equipped, providing a nice spot to relax after a round. The little snack shake has great hot dogs and sandwiches."

Dustin Southway

"Absolutely beautiful course. They lowered the prices to $90 and if that's to much, go play the twilight hours at 4pm in the summer for $32. The layout is awesome and the wildlife is gorgeous. If you are easily inconvenienced then maybe a pack of wild horses next to the fairway may not be your thing, but slowly driving up to them is enough to get them to disburse. The greens were close to perfect and the fairways and tee boxes were well cared for. Will definitely be playing this course again."

EPTRotorsport

What People Like

Incredible value for money
Beautiful links-style course
Abundant wildlife sightings

What People Dislike

Animal feces on course
Strong winds can be challenging

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Links at Sierra Blanca is located in Ruidoso, New Mexico. It's accessible by car, with clear signage from the main roads in town. The drive itself offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains. TikTok

Yes, ample parking is available for visitors at the golf course clubhouse. You can easily park your car before heading to the pro shop or your starting tee. Instagram

Golf carts are available for rent and are highly recommended for navigating the course, especially given its expansive layout and the hilly terrain on some holes. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Green fees can vary, but players have reported prices around $90. Twilight rates in the summer are significantly lower, around $32 starting at 4 PM. Checking GolfNow can also reveal hot deals. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book tee times in advance, especially during peak season or weekends, to secure your preferred slot. Reddit

The course typically opens early in the morning and stays open until dusk. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for specific daily hours, especially during different seasons. TikTok

Yes, twilight rates offer a substantial discount during summer evenings. Additionally, platforms like GolfNow often feature 'hot deals' that can significantly reduce the cost of a round. Reddit

While walking is an option, golf carts are recommended due to the course's layout and length. Carts are available for rent. TikTok

🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience

The course features a classic Scottish links-style design, offering a challenging yet enjoyable round with beautiful mountain backdrops. The back nine is noted for its unique character. TikTok

Visitors frequently report seeing elk, wild horses, and other local wildlife roaming the course, adding a unique element to the golfing experience. TikTok

Reviews consistently praise the course conditions, highlighting lush fairways, well-maintained tee boxes, and some of the best greens players have encountered. TikTok

The course offers a good challenge for all skill levels. While the layout is engaging, the presence of wildlife and potential for wind can add to the difficulty. TikTok

The clubhouse is cozy and well-equipped. There's a snack shack that serves great hot dogs and sandwiches, perfect for a quick bite after your round. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire course offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially with the Sierra Blanca mountains as a backdrop. Wildlife sightings, like horses on the fairway, also make for memorable shots. TikTok+1

Yes, you can take photos of the wildlife, but always maintain a safe distance. The animals are accustomed to golfers, but it's important not to disturb them. TikTok

While drone photography can capture incredible aerial views of the links-style course and mountain scenery, be sure to check local regulations and course policies regarding drone usage before flying. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Links at Sierra Blanca offers a unique family outing with its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. Kids will be fascinated by the chance to see elk and wild horses up close (from a safe distance, of course!). The course is playable, and the novelty of the setting can make it an engaging experience even for younger family members who might not be avid golfers. TikTok

Consider booking a twilight round for a more relaxed pace and a lower green fee. Packing snacks and drinks is always a good idea, though the snack shack offers decent options. The sheer beauty of the Sierra Blanca mountains provides a fantastic backdrop for family photos, making it a memorable day trip. TikTok

💰 Budget-Conscious Golfers

For golfers looking for great value, The Links at Sierra Blanca offers excellent options. While standard green fees can be higher, twilight rates during summer evenings significantly reduce the cost, making it an accessible luxury. Reddit

Furthermore, actively checking platforms like GolfNow for 'hot deals' can unlock even more substantial savings. Playing during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays might also yield better rates. The quality of the course and the unique experience make these discounted rounds feel like a steal. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This course is a dream for photographers, offering a stunning blend of natural beauty and unique wildlife. The Sierra Blanca mountains provide a majestic backdrop for every shot, while the wild horses and elk offer incredible opportunities for candid wildlife photography. TikTok+1

The links-style layout itself is visually striking, with rolling fairways and challenging greens. Capture the dramatic mountain vistas, the serene fairways, and the unforgettable moments of wildlife interaction. Early morning or late afternoon light will enhance the already spectacular scenery. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Links-Style Experience

The Links at Sierra Blanca stands out with its Scottish links-style design, a refreshing departure from typical desert golf courses. This layout emphasizes wide-open fairways, undulating greens, and a strategic approach to the game, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Blanca mountains. The course was ingeniously built on the site of the former Ruidoso airport, showcasing a remarkable transformation into a challenging and visually stunning golf destination. TikTok+1

Players often rave about the surreal beauty of the back nine, which offers a more demanding and memorable golfing experience. The natural terrain and strategic bunkering create a course that is both a test of skill and a feast for the eyes. It's this blend of classic golf design principles with a breathtaking natural setting that makes The Links at Sierra Blanca a must-play for golf enthusiasts. TikTok

Wildlife Encounters on the Fairway

One of the most talked-about aspects of playing The Links at Sierra Blanca is the frequent and often close encounters with local wildlife. Elk and wild horses are commonly seen grazing on the fairways and near the greens, adding an unforgettable element to the game. While these sightings are a highlight for many, they also require a mindful approach from golfers. TikTok

Travelers advise respecting the animals' space and driving golf carts slowly when approaching them. The wildlife is generally accustomed to the presence of golfers, and a slow, calm approach is usually enough to encourage them to move along. These encounters are a testament to the course's integration with its natural environment, offering a truly unique golfing adventure that goes beyond the game itself. TikTok

Course Conditions and Value

The Links at Sierra Blanca consistently receives high marks for its impeccable course conditions. Reviewers frequently mention the lushness of the fairways, the quality of the tee boxes, and particularly the exceptional condition of the greens, with many calling them some of the best they've played all year. This attention to detail in maintenance is a significant draw for golfers seeking a premium playing experience. TikTok

Despite the high quality of the course, many visitors find it to be an excellent value, especially when taking advantage of twilight rates or 'hot deals' found on booking platforms. The combination of a challenging and beautiful layout, excellent conditions, and the unique wildlife encounters makes it a highly recommended destination for golfers looking for a memorable round in New Mexico. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2