For exceptional golfing in a memorable setting, experience the Salish Cliffs Golf Club. This fall marks its 15th anniversary, and Salish Cliffs looks forward to your visit. As part of the Little Creek Casino Resort in Shelton, Salish Cliffs offers golfers challenges within a magnificent environment. The par-72 course was designed by architect Gene Bates and takes golfers across over 300 nature-filled acres with 600 feet of dramatic elevation changes. It holds the distinct honor of being the world’s first Salmon-Safe certified golf course.
The trees and elevations of the Kamilche Valley give golfers a uniquely beautiful and interesting course. The Salish Cliffs Golf Club is part of the Little Creek Casino and Resort and is open to the public. Photo courtesy: Little Creek Casino Resort
Championship Golf Course Open to the Public
Owned and operated by the Squaxin Tribe, the golf course was intentionally created for an elevated experience. You won’t find parallel fairways. “They wanted to build an award-winning destination. It is that!” says Tyler Brown, PGA, director of golf and club operations. “We are known for excellent turf conditions from tee to green.”
It’s a public course, so anyone can play. Get ready to immerse yourself in a rugged, dramatic setting. Most of the holes have been carved through lush Pacific Northwest forest, which means accuracy in getting off the tee is critical. However, the turf is carefully maintained bentgrass, which delivers a smooth roll.
“When you leave the club house, you move through the woods,” says Tyler. The front nine loops you back to the club house before you set off for the back nine. He admits the course is not for the novice golfer. “The fairways and rough turn to forest quickly. It’s easy to lose a golf ball,” he adds. However, the five sets of tees ranging from 5,313 to 7,269 feet make the course playable to varied skill levels. You’re meant to have a great time.
A notable feature of the course is the 15,000 square-foot double green that gives a dramatic finish to the front and back nine. It wraps around a lake and a wetland preserve, offering unique challenges and choices for players.
Take a break between the front and back nine at the Salish Cliffs Golf Club where beauty and amazing golf are found in one place. It’s part of the Little Creek Casino and Resort. Photo courtesy: Little Creek Casino Resort
Personal Touch is Part of the Salish Cliffs Golf Experience
Your time at Salish Cliffs incorporates the care and attention of the golf team. Tyler supports his people to provide professional and helpful services. He is supported by two additional golf professionals. They are available for instruction, clinics and other programming. Starters and marshals greet and meet you to get you going and to offer the do’s and don’ts for the course. They also monitor the course. The pro shop is well stocked with accessories and merchandise.
Fees for playing include the use of a mandatory GPS-enabled golf cart. “There’s a lot of distance to the next tee,” Tyler notes. The 9-mile trek might otherwise distract from the pleasure of golfing. You’ll get help with your bags and warm up balls for the driving range. When your round is over, unwind at the cedar-logged clubhouse with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the course.
Since joining the team at Little Creek several years ago, Tyler truly appreciates the many ways Salish Cliffs is more than a golf course. In addition to being director of golf and club operations, he is also part of the Little Creek executive team. “This is very special place,” he says. “There is culture and history. I am extremely grateful for the tribe, and I have become a better professional and leader. My education and growth have not stopped.” Tyler is involved with assessing the strengths, weakness and opportunities for the business. He enjoys coming to work each day and strives to nurture a healthy, positive environment for his team, which flows over to everyone who comes to visit the property.
Salish Cliffs is able to offer mentorship for those interested in a golfing career pathway. Two people are currently being supported to become better players and professionals. Tyler is also enthused to offer golf clinics for youth in the tribe.
Little Creek Casino Resort is the perfect place to stay and play, with a stunning golf course, gaming, spa and more. Photo courtesy: Little Creek Casino Resort
Bring the Whole Family to Little Creek Casino Resort
Many locals are familiar with the Little Creek Casino Resort for dinner and/or an event. You might consider staying overnight and bringing the whole family. The Little Creek Casino has been adding amenities for a family-centered time. While the golfers are playing, the rest of the family can enjoy the spa, swimming pool, and new fitness center. An arcade is opening this fall. There are several dining options and an events center with entertainment ranging from national music acts to comedy shows to regional boxing. The smoke-free casino floor features slot machines, classic table games like blackjack and there is a dedicated poker room.
To book a tee time or a room or suite at the hotel contact Little Creek Casino Resort. Explore this (almost) hidden gem right in our back yard!
Salish Cliffs Golf Club & Little Creek Casino Resort
91 WA-108, Shelton
Sponsored
