Visit Sky Valley: Play Georgia’s Highest Course & Coolest Summer Escape

Perched at 3,500 feet in the northeast Georgia, surrounded by waterfalls, hiking trails, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sky Valley doesn’t just claim the title of Georgia’s Highest & Coolest City—it earns it. Residents and visitors enjoy the great outdoors year-round. Even in the summer, the elevation provides conditions that are relatively cool and always spectacular. But the climate alone isn’t what draws golfers and travelers back year after year. Sky Valley strikes the perfect balance between secluded mountain charm and convenient access to a wide range of nearby attractions.

At the heart of the scenic community lies Sky Valley Country Club – a gem of the Georgia Golf Trail and one of the South’s most underrated mountain golf experiences. Here, crisp air replaces humidity, and Southern hospitality is served alongside every tee time, social event, and croquet match.

Golf in the Mountains—Refined, Not Rugged

Originally designed by Bill Watts in 1971 and expertly renovated in 2007 by architect Bill Bergin, the course at Sky Valley Country Club is a strategic layout that stretches to 6,900 yards from the tips, with six tee box options making it playable and enjoyable for every level of golfer.

Sky Valley’s routing showcases the natural contours of the valley with lush fairways, true-rolling greens, and dramatic elevation changes and doglegs that challenge your decision making and your swing. Accuracy is rewarded, but the course is never punishing.

Pace of play remains brisk, thanks to a relaxed membership and a tee sheet that’s never overbooked. Even on weekends, it’s not uncommon to play 18 in under four hours and still have time for lunch, a croquet match, or a drive to nearby Highlands or Clayton.

Sky Valley is also known for its consistent conditioning, even through the heart of summer. The bentgrass greens stay fast but fair, rolling true and quick without becoming unfairly slick. The relatively cool mountain air keeps the greens in excellent shape, often outperforming those at lower elevations during the heat of summer.

Sky Valley is a proud member of the Georgia Golf Trail, Sky Valley is among the best of the mountain golf courses in the Peach State. While many mountain courses shut down during the colder months, Sky Valley’s unique position in a protected valley allows for a year-round playing season.

More Than a Course—It’s a Community

Sky Valley Country Club isn’t a resort in disguise—it’s a community with character. Member-owned and managed since 2013, the club is home to roughly 350 members, many of whom split time between Sky Valley and homes throughout the Southeast. What unites them is the shared spirit of friendliness, laid-back luxury, and love of the mountains.

The 13,000-square-foot clubhouse, built in rustic-modern style with oak beams, stone fireplaces, and sweeping mountain views, serves as the social hub. Inside, you’ll find fine dining, a cozy grill, and a steady calendar of member events: themed dinners, wine tastings, live music on the patio, and community celebrations that make first-time guests feel like they’ve always belonged.

Croquet in the Clouds

Not many clubs can claim to have one of the top croquet programs in the Southeast, but Sky Valley wears the badge with pride. With two full-size lawns nestled beside the clubhouse, the club was even named U.S. Croquet Association’s New Club of the Year in 2018.

Here, croquet is more than just a casual game—it’s a scene. Dressed in traditional whites, members play in local matches, social events, and inter-club tournaments. For guests, it’s the perfect low-key afternoon activity, often followed by cocktails and conversation under the cool mountain sky.

Stay, Play, and Explore

Sky Valley makes it easy to turn a day trip into a full weekend (or more). Stay-and-play accommodations are available through timeshares, villas, and private home rentals—many located within walking distance of the course and clubhouse.

For those looking to venture beyond the gates, the surrounding region offers a bounty of local attractions. From the culinary delights and boutique shopping of Clayton, Highlands, and Dillard, to scenic destinations like Mud Creek Falls, Tallulah Gorge, and Black Rock Mountain State Park, there’s no shortage of ways to fill your downtime.

Why Sky Valley Feels Familiar

Sky Valley isn’t flashy. It doesn’t need to be. It’s the kind of place that welcomes you quietly, makes you feel at home, and leaves you planning your next visit before the last putt drops.

The cool air, the warm people, and the rare chance to experience mountain golf in Georgia—this is what keeps players coming back, season after season.

Whether you’re chasing new courses on the Georgia Golf Trail, looking for a high-altitude escape from the summer heat, or simply searching for a place where golf, croquet, and genuine community come together – a visit to Sky Valley and a round (or two) at Sky Valley Country Club belongs on your list.

Sky Valley Country Club Website

skyvalleycountryclub.com 

Visit Sky Valley Website

visitskyvallega.com