Nestled amongst the soul-soothing backdrop of Wyoming’s Black Hills, there exists a sleepy town with no stop lights. A place “where the west never ends”. For residents of the Northeastern Wyoming town of Hulett, this is about as close to paradise as there is in our beautiful country. They may be right.
It’s here, in the shadow of America’s first recognized National Monument, Devils Tower, that local Patriarch Jim Neiman Sr. had a vision. Create an experience that would capture the mystique of the West, while providing private members with a golf club as pristine as the Black Hills air that blankets its fairways, as well as offer the small community an outlet for outdoor recreation. To say he has seen that vision through would be a glaring understatement.
The journey from being just a vision, to ultimately being honored as one of America’s Best New Courses by Golf Digest Magazine, began by carving out three holes on a bluff overlooking Devils Tower, in the thick of the prairie wilderness. From there, the potential to create something truly remarkable was quickly recognized, and Jim enlisted the insight and design expertise of renowned golf designer Kevin Atkinson, of Phelps-Atkinson Golf Design. The end result, and what they’ve since expanded upon, is a sprawling retreat from the chaotic bustle of everyday modern life.
The course itself is 7,111 yards of meticulously designed fairways, bunkers, greens and water challenges. All interwoven with the awe-inspiring Wyoming landscape, full of tall pine trees, open valleys, red rimrock, and native grasses that stretch out as far as the eye can gaze. In the distance, Devils Tower looms large and majestic, reminding you that you are far from the noise of the outside world. It’s difficult not to feel a sense of solitude and inner peace as you breathe in the crisp, clean air that fills the remarkably blue skies that hold watch over this stunning course. The landscape is unlike any other course you’ve likely played, and around each bend, the views become more and more captivating.
The experience doesn’t end after you’ve holed out the eighteenth, however. This Western oasis boasts plenty more to offer its club members who are looking for something other than just world-class golf. This area of Wyoming is renowned as a haven for big game hunting, fishing, and hiking as well. Hunting expeditions can yield large elk, turkeys, whitetails and mule deer for those with a keen eye and steady hand. Opportunities abound for fly fishing or spin fishing for trout, walleye, bass and catfish. Members can also release some stress by firing off some rounds on the property’s skeet range. All of these incredible opportunities are available for club members.
For those hoping for something more relaxed, there lies over 1,000 acres of unspoiled countryside to explore by foot or bicycle. Abundant trails and footpaths carve their way through the landscape, rich with wildlife, native plants, and tremendous opportunities for photographers of all skill levels. As the painting worthy sun bids farewell, the massive expanse of Wyoming sky is illuminated by the millions of stars that appear just out of reach, a sight previously unseen by most who visit from larger cities across the globe. The peace and quiet that accompanies them, a welcome escape from the traffic, pollution, and crowds that fill our daily lives.
When you’re ready to unwind for the evening, the beautifully sculpted 77 Steakhouse & Saloon welcomes you to feast on locally sourced bison, as well as pour you libations from behind one of the most breathtaking backbars in the country. Built before the turn of the nineteenth century, this beautifully crafted bar was purchased by Jim Nieman Sr. in 2005, and painstakingly restored by his daughter Connie and son-in-law Tim Lindmier. The 28’ long “stand-up” bar was built in Chicago and transported to Belle Fourche, SD by rail, where it’s believed the likes of Seth Bullock, Calamity Jane, and the Sundance Kid all laid their elbows atop it’s bar rail.
After a day enjoying the wonderfully slowed down pace of this secluded get away destination, guests can fall into the comfort of the western style lodging offered at the club. This is when you’ll be able to truly relax, and reflect on the splendor of your surroundings. Sleep comes easy, and the morning sunrise offers another chance to take it all in once again.
The Golf Club at Devils Tower offers three levels of membership: Regional, National, and Corporate, as well as a Member for a Day option. In order to deliver a true world class experience to club members, Jim Nieman Sr. built a 5,500’ air strip on the property which members can fly in on. From there, the club’s flight concierge service will take them from tarmac to tee in ten minutes. This is just another in a long list of amenities offered at the exclusive club. The club is also available for weddings and receptions, banquets and parties, as well as corporate retreats and other gatherings. For those who are swept away by the natural beauty of the area, there are exclusive real estate opportunities available on a very limited basis.
Call (307) 467-5773 or inquire online at devilstowergolf.com with questions about amenities and the calendar of events, and then book your summer getaway to this hidden gem to experience the spirit of the American West.