Banff Springs

Tunnel Course - 9 Holes

Golf with a View!

The Tunnel 9 course at Banff Springs is a remarkable blend of historic charm, playable design, and breathtaking scenery. Nestled within the shadow of the Rocky Mountains, this 9-hole track offers a shorter round without compromising on quality or experience. Whether you're a beginner, a casual player, or just looking to squeeze in a quick twilight loop, Tunnel 9 delivers more than you’d expect.

One of Canada’s most legendary golf course architects, this course reflects his signature touch: playable yet strategic layouts that harmonize with nature. While the Tunnel 9 was added later to complement the original 18-hole layout, it stays true to the Banff Springs experience—elevated tee boxes, lush surroundings, and mountain views on every hole.

TUNNEL MOUNTAIN 9

In 1989, the course was complemented with the construction of an adjoining 9 holes, designed by Cornish and Robinson, resulting in 27 holes of championship Alberta golf.

Course Designer Cornish and Robinson
Built 1989
Holes 9
Par 36
Length 3,287 yards
White Slope 125, Rating 68.2
Gold Slope 128, Rating 70.8

🟡 Course Conditions

Banff Springs doesn’t mess around when it comes to maintenance. For a public-access resort course, the conditions are top tier:

Tee boxes were level, well-groomed, and free of divots
Fairways had that springy, tightly-cut feel you get at private clubs
Greens were smooth and consistent—not lightning fast, but quick enough to reward confident strokes
Bunkers had soft, consistent sand—well-raked and not overly penal
Rough was playable but definitely punished wayward shots, especially if you found the thick stuff near the tree lines
Each hole was clearly marked, with yardage signs and a clean layout, and the routing flowed nicely with little downtime between greens and the next tee box.

🛠️ Design & Playability

While Tunnel 9 isn’t as dramatic as the full 18-hole Stanley Thompson layout, it offers strategic angles, elevated tees, and a few fun risk-reward moments. It's the type of course where better players can chase birdies with creative shot-making, but newer players won’t feel overwhelmed by distance or complexity.

You’ll use every club in your bag here—from mid-irons to wedges—and putting is a true test of feel. A few greens have subtle undulations that demand full attention. Holes are well-protected by bunkers and mature trees, and the natural slope of the land adds personality to every shot.

⛳ Experience Summary

Even though I played a casual round and rented clubs, Banff Springs made it feel like a premium golf outing. The TaylorMade Stealth 2 set I rented was high-end and clean, including the Spider putter. Add in the friendly staff, the well-stocked pro shop, and the postcard views, and you’ve got a round you’ll be thinking about long after you tap in on 9.

If you're in Banff and have a couple hours to spare, Tunnel 9 is an absolute must-play. It's more than just a warm-up for the main course—it’s a well-rounded, stand-alone experience with heritage, beauty, and solid golf. I'm looking forward to going back one day to play the 18 hole course! Till next time, Thanks Fairmont, Banff Springs - you've been a real gem!

ON-SITE FACILITIES

Full length Driving Range with 20 stalls and private area
3 Putting Greens
1 Chipping Green
Practice Sand Bunker

DRIVING RANGE & PRACTICE FACILITIES

Use of the driving range and practice facilities are included in the price of our green fees. Non-golfing guests may also utilize these facilities by purchasing driving range and other practice access at the golf shop.

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