Disc golf has been around for almost 50 years, but it has never enjoyed the level of popularity and excitement it does today. Over the past couple of years, people of all ages have been drawn to this outdoor activity that combines challenge and skill with the enjoyment of spending the day in beautiful landscapes.
The best place for disc golf in the Blue Ridge Mountains is North Cove Disc Golf & Leisure Club. The club hosted the 2022 College Disc Golf National Championship, but don’t let that intimidate you — North Cove has courses designed for all levels of players.
What is disc golf?
Disc golf is played very much like traditional golf — but instead of a club and golf balls, players throw flying discs in an attempt to complete each hole in the fewest throws.
The target of each hole is typically an elevated metal basket, and the terrain can vary throughout the course, including trees, rocks, meadows, ponds, rivers, and elevation changes. Players must make each consecutive throw from the spot where the previous one landed, so those terrain features often make for interesting obstacles!
Disc golf is easy to learn and accessible to all ages. It’s a great fitness activity and fun for families to play together.
Disc Golf at North Cove
Nestled into the rolling hills along the Catawba River just north of Marion, North Cove has two disc golf courses spread across the club's 157 acres:
- The Boulders | River course (7,800 ft.) is a 20-hole layout designed for all skill levels and features incredible rock formations and stunning views of the North Fork of the Catawba River. Expect lots of elevation change, and plan for about 2.5 hours of play.
- The Gorge course (8,300 ft.) was designed for the college championship tournament and is the club's longest and most demanding layout. The club describes it as for those "ready for a workout and a unique challenge." Plan for approximately 2.5 hours of play.
North Cove Leisure Club offers tee times 7 days a week, with the Pro Shop open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pricing is tiered by day: weekday rates (Monday–Thursday) are $15 for a day pass; weekend rates (Friday–Sunday) are $15 for a single round or $25 for a day pass. Annual memberships are also available. Online reservation required on Mondays and Tuesdays for tee times.
Stop by the North Cove pro shop for all your disc golf supplies. New players can get started with just one disc, and more experienced disc golfers can choose from a selection of specialized discs. Already open on the property is Birdie's Restaurant, a pub-style spot with indoor and outdoor seating — perfect for refueling after your round. And for a full Blue Ridge Mountain getaway, North Cove also offers glamping accommodations right on site, so the courses are practically in your front yard.
