Dramatic elevation changes, 7,400 yards, the toughest test in the valley
Golf Digest named Grizzly Ranch one of America's Top 100 Greatest Public Courses in 2021 — the only Graeagle course on that list. Designed by Bob Cupp and opened in 2005, it plays 7,411 yards through dramatic mountain terrain at 4,800–5,400 feet elevation. Slope 140, rating 74.9. Exposed ridgeline holes, forced carries, and panoramic Sierra views on every hole. Semi-private — access is through packages only.
7,411 yards
longest in the Graeagle region
Slope of 140
most challenging layout
Dramatic elevation changes on every hole
Plays downhill from an elevated tee with the entire course spread below. At 7,411 yards this course earns every foot — and hole 1 makes that clear immediately.
The most talked-about hole at Grizzly Ranch. A forced carry over a deep ravine to a green cut into the hillside, with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada at 5,200 feet elevation. Three clubs of wind possible.
Low-handicap golfers ready for the hardest round in the valley. Groups that want one course they'll talk about for years.
High-handicap golfers or beginners — slope 140 and forced carries over ravines will punish crooked shots and slow pace of play significantly.
Save Grizzly Ranch for the last day. It's the exclamation point of a Graeagle trip — play the approachable courses first, then earn this one. Most groups pair it with a recovery round at Graeagle Meadows the morning after.
Closest lodging to Grizzly Ranch — sorted by distance
On-site dining at Grizzly Ranch
Grizzly Ranch plays 7,411 yards, par 72, with a slope of 140 and course rating of 74.9. It is ranked among Golf Digest's Top 100 Greatest Public Courses in the US.
Bob Cupp designed Grizzly Ranch. It opened in 2005 and earned Golf Digest Top 100 Greatest Public Courses in the United States in 2021.
Grizzly Ranch is semi-private. Public access is available through golf packages — GolfGraeagle can secure guaranteed tee times as part of a stay-and-play package.
With a slope of 140 and 7,411 yards from the back tees, it is the most demanding course in the Graeagle region. Elevation changes range from 4,800 to 5,400 feet across the course.
Grizzly Ranch features a pro shop, 30-station natural turf practice range, putting green, chipping area, and bunker practice area. The Grizzly Grill is on-site for dining.
Grizzly Ranch is in Portola, CA — approximately 11 miles east of Graeagle, about 18 minutes via Hwy 70.
Tee times + lodging + dining — handled by Mike Eskuchen, 20+ year golf industry expert. Packages from $299/golfer. Free quote, 24-hour response.
⚡ Golf Digest Top 100 — semi-private tee times release 30 days out and fill within days
Request a Free Quote →No obligation · 72-hr cancellation · Response within 24 hours
