New Hampshire may not be the first place that comes to mind when golfers start planning their season, but it should be. From a historic Donald Ross layout on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee to the state's only Nicklaus Design course set high in the White Mountains, the Granite State punches well above its weight when it comes to great golf. We've rounded up six courses worth making the drive for — whether you're a scratch player chasing a tough track or a weekend warrior looking for a beautiful afternoon on the fairways.

 

There is nothing quite like teeing it up on the only Nicklaus Design course in New Hampshire. Owl's Nest delivers a pedigree that would normally cost a lot more. Recognized as a Top 100 Must-Play Course in New England, the course plays out in three distinct personalities: six links-style holes surrounding the clubhouse, six that meander through open fields around a four-acre spring-fed pond, and a final six set atop Sunset Hill, where dramatic elevation changes and sweeping views of the White Mountains make for some of the most memorable finishing holes in the state.

Accuracy is the premium here. OB stakes and red-stake hazards lurk throughout, with plenty of bunkers and true-rolling greens that reward precision. Post round, Panorama Six82 deserves its own reputation. The patio has panoramic mountain views in every direction. The resort's private rental homes are walking distance from the first tee and make for a fun guys(or girls) weekend.

Bring your putting A game, as the greens don’t mess around. Lochmere is the kind of place that serious golfers keep coming back to. It feels closer to a private club than a public course.

The fairways are narrow, water hazards come into play on five holes, and the greens — most of them undulating, several elevated become a recurring topic in your foursome. The front nine is welcoming enough; the back nine sharpens its teeth. The #1 handicap hole is the 7th, a 441-yard par 4 that wastes no time announcing its intentions. The Greenside Restaurant is open to the public, and indoor simulators are available year-round for those who can't wait for the snow to melt.

Book early, as this course fills up fast, especially on weekends. I’ve had well-intended visits disappear as I failed to plan ahead.

A classic Donald Ross design with tight, tree-lined fairways, interior streams and ponds that influence play on a majority of holes, and greens that roll fast and true. There are spots to be safe on the fairway, but the greens' wicked speed demands a good approach. The 4th hole punishes poor shots, with a narrow fairway, water on the left, and OB on the right. The elevated green can be a nightmare when things dry out in summer.

Kingswood's tagline, "private course conditions at public course prices," can not be better said. I love playing this in the fall, when the trees come alive. If making a trip here, Wolfeboro can’t be beat for a bite or a drink at one of the many great restaurants. Cap it all off with a scoop of Coffee Kahlua ice cream at Bailey’s Bubble.

Beaver Meadow opened for play in 1896 — two years after the founding of the USGA — making it the oldest surviving golf course in New Hampshire. Scottish professional Willie Campbell designed the original nine holes on land along the Merrimack River, charging the founding members a modest $50 for his work. In the late 60’s, they expanded the layout to 18 holes, producing the classic parkland course that plays today, with tree-lined fairways, several water hazards, and the kind of comfortable, unhurried feel that only comes with a century-plus of history. I love golf history, and this place fuels the fire.

The course conditions stand out in my mind. Well-maintained, always in shape, and just playable. The 492-yard 4th can be a humbling experience. It’s no wonder that the course plays host to state amateur tournaments, high school championships and more. It is one of the best walking courses in the state.

Twilight rates make an evening round a real bargain. Come for the history, stay for the value.

One of central NH's best-kept secrets, and I mean that sincerely. Don’t let the distance fool you (6,008 yards from the tips), it plays way longer. Accuracy is a must with every club in the bag, and the tight tree corridors, blind shots, and elevation changes keep you honest all day. The greens are the real story, though — small, in excellent condition, and much faster than most public courses. This is not a track to take lightly.

Make sure to hit the practice green early, as you will need it. The fried clams at the Out-of-Bounds Pub are the best. Late afternoon, the pub becomes a scene as locals show up and it turns into the kind of afternoon you didn’t plan on.

   

A rather short course that rewards accuracy above all else. Don't let the yardage fool you — the 7th hole is an uphill monster, and if you walk away with a par, you are lucky. The 13th features an amazing elevation change that demands your full attention, and holes 3 through 5 make up a demanding stretch where each shot decision takes clear precedence over ego. This is a course where course management wins the day.

Stick around after your round — the bar is a genuine highlight, with super friendly bartenders and a BLT that more than a few regulars consider the best reason to visit. Sometimes the 19th hole is worth the trip all on its own.