
Bear Mountain Golf Course
Experience breathtaking views and challenging play across two distinct 18-hole courses at Bear Mountain Golf Course.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Bear Mountain Golf Course
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking views and challenging play across two distinct 18-hole courses at Bear Mountain Golf Course.
"Amazing views with a challenging course, what more can you ask for?"

⛰️ Mountain Course is a Brute
Don't let the looks fool you; the Mountain Course is tough with tight fairways and long distances.
✅ Book Tee Times in Advance
Popular course, especially the Mountain Course. Book ahead to secure your spot.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mountain Course's Panoramic Views
Mountain Course
Experience breathtaking vistas of eastern Vancouver Island from 1,100 feet up. A truly memorable backdrop for your game.

Challenging Elevation Changes
Mountain Course
Navigate dramatic uphill and downhill shots that test your game and reward precise play. Expect a demanding round.

The Valley Course's Strategic Play
Valley Course
A well-maintained course offering a classic golfing challenge with strategic bunkering and water features.

Signature Hole Fun
Nine Hole Course (at the base)
Enjoy a unique and fun nine-hole experience with a memorable signature hole, perfect for a quicker round.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Challenge: Mountain vs. Valley
Book Ahead for Prime Tee Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛰️ Mountain Course is a Brute
Don't let the looks fool you; the Mountain Course is tough with tight fairways and long distances.
✅ Book Tee Times in Advance
Popular course, especially the Mountain Course. Book ahead to secure your spot.
💨 Greens Roll Fast!
The greens are well-maintained and roll very fast, so be prepared for that.
💰 Check for Special Rates
Look into resident, junior, and twilight rates for potential savings.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛰️ Mountain Course is a Brute
Don't let the looks fool you; the Mountain Course is tough with tight fairways and long distances.
✅ Book Tee Times in Advance
Popular course, especially the Mountain Course. Book ahead to secure your spot.
💨 Greens Roll Fast!
The greens are well-maintained and roll very fast, so be prepared for that.
💰 Check for Special Rates
Look into resident, junior, and twilight rates for potential savings.
🚫 Avoid Night Golf Tourney
One reviewer called the night golf tournament a 'huge ripoff' and 'a joke' due to visibility issues.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from the Mountain Course are incredible and worth photographing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bear Mountain Golf Course offers breathtaking views, particularly from its challenging Mountain Course, and generally well-maintained greens. While some find the course design gimmicky or not in peak condition, the friendly staff and scenic beauty are consistent highlights. The Valley Course provides a more traditional challenge, and the nine-hole course is a fun, accessible option.
"Amazing views with a challenging course, what more can you ask for ? Nathan provided excellent customer service and the greens keeper Jake is awesome and passionate about his work. Will be back for another round before the fall."
Manny Fresh
"Well maintained course and greens. The greens roll so prepare for that. Friendly staff"
C. Rev
"Super fun nine hole course right at the base of Bear Mountain. It’s well-maintained with a fun signature hole and very nice staff. I’ll also give them a shout out on their merchandise. They had quite a great selection."
Cole Rutherford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bear Mountain Golf Course is located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Access typically involves driving. If coming from Victoria, it's a scenic drive north. Public transportation options are limited directly to the course, so a car is generally recommended for ease of access.
No, the Bear Mountain Golf Course discussed here is located in Canada. There is a separate 'Big Bear Mountain Golf Course' in Big Bear, California, which is a different destination. Ensure you are looking at the correct location for your travel plans.
From Victoria, BC, take Highway 1 North and then follow signs for Bear Mountain. The exact route may vary slightly, so using a GPS or mapping app is advised. The course is situated at a higher elevation, offering distinct views.
Yes, ample parking is typically available for golfers at the clubhouse and practice areas. It's advisable to arrive a little early, especially during busy periods, to ensure convenient parking.
While possible, it's challenging. Taxis or ride-sharing services can be used, but they may be expensive for the return trip. The course's location makes it most accessible by private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Green fees vary between the Mountain Course and the Valley Course. The Mountain Course typically ranges around $249 CAD, while the Valley Course is around $219 CAD. Rates are subject to change and may differ based on the season and time of day.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book tee times in advance, especially for the Mountain Course, as it is a popular destination and can fill up quickly.
Bear Mountain Golf Course offers resident, junior, and twilight rates. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead to inquire about any current promotions or packages.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. The golf courses typically open in the morning and close around dusk. It's best to check the official Bear Mountain Golf Course website for the most up-to-date hours of operation for both courses and the pro shop.
While carts are available and often recommended for the Mountain Course due to its terrain, walking may be permitted on certain courses or at specific times. Inquire directly with the pro shop when booking your tee time about their policies on walking the course.
🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience
The Mountain Course is known for its rugged terrain, challenging elevation changes, and stunning panoramic views. The Valley Course offers a more traditional layout with strategic bunkering and water features, providing a different but equally engaging golfing challenge.
The Mountain Course is considered a brute and is quite challenging. It features tight fairways, numerous bunkers, daunting water features, and long distances from tee to green, making it a test of skill.
Yes, reviews consistently mention that the greens are well-maintained and roll very fast. Players should be prepared for this characteristic when playing.
The Mountain Course offers incredible panoramic views of eastern Vancouver Island from its elevated position. These views are a significant highlight of playing this course.
Typically, golf courses have a dress code. Expect to wear collared shirts and golf shorts or slacks. Denim and athletic wear are usually not permitted. It's best to confirm the specific dress code with the pro shop when booking.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are usually dining facilities available at the clubhouse, offering food and beverages for golfers. These can range from casual snacks to more formal dining experiences, depending on the specific venue.
Dining options typically include classic golf course fare such as sandwiches, salads, burgers, and appetizers. Some venues may offer more elevated dishes. It's advisable to check the current menu offerings.
Beverage carts often operate on the course during peak times, offering refreshments. You can also typically purchase drinks at the clubhouse before or after your round.
Given its location, dining options directly adjacent to the course might be limited. However, the surrounding areas and nearby towns will offer a wider variety of restaurants and cafes.
Absolutely. The clubhouse restaurant is a popular spot for golfers to relax and enjoy a meal or drinks after their round, often with views of the course.
📸 📸 Photography
The most photogenic spots are undoubtedly on the Mountain Course, particularly from elevated tee boxes and fairways offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and eastern Vancouver Island.
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos on the golf course. However, it's important to be respectful of other golfers and the course itself. Avoid delaying play for extended photo sessions.
The 18th hole on the Mountain Course is a long par 5 with a downhill tee shot that offers great views. Many of the elevated holes on the Mountain Course provide excellent backdrops for memorable photos.
A camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture the expansive views. If you're interested in landscape photography, a wide-angle lens can also be beneficial. Don't forget your phone for quick snaps!
Drone usage policies can vary significantly. It's crucial to check with Bear Mountain Golf Course management directly regarding their regulations on drone photography before flying one on their property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Two Courses: Mountain vs. Valley
The Valley Course, on the other hand, presents a more traditional parkland style of golf. While still challenging, it features strategic bunkering, water hazards, and well-manicured fairways that demand accuracy and thoughtful shot-making. It offers a different kind of strategic test compared to the raw challenge of the Mountain Course.
Choosing between them depends on your preference: for breathtaking scenery and a demanding physical and strategic test, opt for the Mountain Course. For a classic, well-designed challenge that still requires precision, the Valley Course is an excellent choice. Many visitors enjoy playing both to experience the full breadth of what Bear Mountain offers.
The 'Hidden Gem' Experience and Traveler Feedback
Despite these mixed opinions on the course design and condition, the stunning views are almost universally praised. The well-maintained greens are also frequently highlighted, though players are warned that they 'roll so fast.' The friendly staff and excellent customer service are also recurring positives, with specific mentions of groundskeepers being passionate about their work.
It's important to note that experiences can differ significantly. While some find the course design frustrating with 'blind fading a 7-iron off the tee on a par 4,' others appreciate the 'interesting course design' and the overall memorable experience, especially during pleasant weather. The nine-hole course at the base of the mountain is also noted as a fun, well-maintained option with nice staff and merchandise.
Understanding Night Golf and Other Course Options
For those seeking a shorter or perhaps less intense round, Bear Mountain also features a nine-hole course located at the base of the mountain. This course is described as well-maintained, fun, and featuring a signature hole, making it a good option for a quicker game or for those who prefer a less demanding layout.
It's worth noting that the term 'Bear Mountain Ranch' also appears in some discussions, which might refer to a different location or a specific part of the resort. When planning your visit, ensure you are booking for the correct course and be cautious about special events like night golf if visibility is a concern.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit