The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, often referred to as the RTJ Golf Trail, is a stunning collection of championship-caliber courses spanning the picturesque landscapes of Alabama. Designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Sr., this trail is more than just a series of golf courses-it’s a masterfully crafted experience that combines world-class design, breathtaking natural beauty, and an unforgettable challenge for players of all skill levels.
Spanning 11 locations and 26 courses, the RTJ Golf Trail offers everything from dramatic elevation changes and pristine fairways to meticulously designed greens that test even the most seasoned golfers. Whether you’re teeing off against a backdrop of rolling hills, sparkling lakes, or lush woodlands, each course provides a unique and exhilarating challenge.
The Birth of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail was born from a bold vision to transform Alabama into a premier golf destination. In the late 1980s, Dr. David G. Bronner, CEO of the Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA), saw an opportunity to boost tourism, economic growth, and the state’s reputation by developing a network of world-class golf courses.
Inspired by the “Field of Dreams” philosophy of “build it and they will come,” Bronner envisioned a trail of golf courses spanning the entire state. He enlisted the expertise of legendary golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., renowned for designing some of the world’s most challenging and visually stunning courses. Together, they embarked on an ambitious project: constructing multiple championship-level golf courses simultaneously across Alabama, an unprecedented achievement in golf course design. The result was the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, a collection of 26 courses at 11 locations seamlessly integrated with the state’s diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to lakeside fairways.
Since its opening in the early 1990s, the RTJ Golf Trail has gained worldwide acclaim. It attracts golfers from around the globe and transforms Alabama into a must-visit golf destination. Today, it remains one of the world’s largest and most celebrated golf trails, offering a unique blend of affordability, luxury, and challenging play.
All RTJ Golf Trail courses are designed with players of all skill levels in mind, making them incredibly player-friendly. With multiple tee boxes, golfers can choose the difficulty level that best suits their abilities, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. The courses feature wide fairways, strategically placed hazards, and well-maintained greens that provide a fair but challenging test of golf. Additionally, each course’s friendly and knowledgeable staff is always available to give tips and assistance. The combination of stunning natural landscapes and thoughtfully designed courses ensures that every round on the RTJ Golf Trail is enjoyable and memorable.
The first hole on Capitol Hill’s Judge course is one of the most popular and frequently photographed holes on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Plummeting nearly 200 feet off the tee to the fairway below, the dramatic opening tee shot is breathtaking,
But the RTJ Golf Trail is more than just golf—it’s a luxury golf getaway. Many locations feature upscale resorts, fine dining, and spa experiences, making it ideal for avid golfers, families, and travelers looking for a first-class retreat.
Luxurious Resorts Along the RTJ Golf Trail
The resorts along the RTJ Golf Trail embody luxury and comfort, providing an ideal combination of high-end amenities and stunning natural surroundings. These exceptional properties showcase beautiful architecture, lavish accommodations, and outstanding facilities that meet the diverse needs of their guests. With premier dining options, revitalizing spas, and scenic views, the resorts offer a unique experience of relaxation and adventure. Whether it’s the tranquil atmosphere, impeccable service, or the wide range of recreational activities available, the resorts of the RTJ Golf Trail guarantee a luxurious and unforgettable stay for all visitors.
- The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection: This stunning AAA Four Diamond beach resort in Point Clear, Alabama, offers exceptional dining, a marina, and breathtaking views of Mobile Bay.
- Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa: This resort, nestled in the rolling hills of Birmingham, offers fine dining, a luxurious spa, and a serene atmosphere.
- Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National: Overlooking the award-winning Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail and 2,000 acres of lakefront countryside, this resort offers top-notch accommodations and amenities.
- Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center: This hotel is located in downtown Montgomery and offers modern amenities, stunning architecture, and a rooftop pool.
- The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa: Situated in the heart of Mobile, this historic hotel offers luxurious accommodations, a full-service spa, and easy access to the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
- Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel: This AAA Four Diamond hotel in Mobile is ideally suited for business, conventions, or weekend escapes. Its contemporary design and unrivaled amenities make it ideal for these types of stays.
- Marriott Shoals Resort & Spa: Located on the banks of the Tennessee River in Northwest Alabama, this newly renovated resort is thoughtfully curated to the area’s musical heritage and features Alabama’s only revolving restaurant.
- Montgomery Marriott Prattville Hotel & Conference Center at Capitol Hill: This hotel is the premier hotel near Montgomery. It represents the ultimate retreat, designed to balance business and pleasure perfectly.
The world-class Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa, featuring the stunning 8,191-yard Robert Trent Jones Trail Golf Course, is at your back door!
The RTJ Golf Trail Courses/Locations
The collection of world-class golf courses offers a diverse and challenging experience for players of all skill levels. Each course is meticulously crafted to showcase the region’s natural beauty, providing golfers with breathtaking views, strategic layouts, and impeccably maintained fairways and greens. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual golfer, the RTJ Golf Trail promises an unforgettable golfing adventure that combines the thrill of the game with the splendor of the great outdoors.
- Cambrian Ridge: This facility in Greenville features three nine-hole championship courses and a nine-hole short course, offering a diverse and challenging golfing experience.
- Capitol Hill: This facility, located in Prattville, boasts three 18-hole championship courses, including the renowned Judge course, which offers stunning views of the Alabama River.
- Grand National: Located in Opelika, this facility offers two 18-hole championship courses and a 18-hole short course, all set against the backdrop of Lake Saugahatchee.
- Hampton Cove: This facility, in Huntsville, features two 18-hole championship courses and an 18-hole short course. The River Course is one of the most picturesque on the trail.
- Highland Oaks: Located in Dothan, this facility includes three nine-hole championship courses and a nine-hole short course, providing a variety of layouts and challenges.
- Lakewood Golf Club: a historic and picturesque golf destination in Point Clear, featuring two 18-hole championship courses set amidst beautiful landscapes and centuries-old live oak trees.
- Magnolia Grove: This facility, located in Mobile, offers two 18-hole championship courses and an 18-hole short course. The Crossings course is a favorite among golfers.
- Oxmoor Valley: Located in Birmingham, this facility features two 18-hole championship courses and an 18-hole short course, set in the scenic Appalachian foothills.
- Ross Bridge: Also in Birmingham, this facility boasts a single 18-hole championship course known for its length and challenging layout. It is a must-play for serious golfers.
- Silver Lakes: Situated in Anniston/Gadsden, this facility includes three nine-hole championship courses and a nine-hole short course, offering a variety of terrains and challenges.
- The Shoals: Located in Muscle Shoals, this facility features two 18-hole championship courses, including the Fighting Joe course, one of the longest in the world.
In addition to its world-class courses, the Trail offers a variety of amenities and services for golfers. Each site has its own clubhouse, with dining facilities and pro shops stocked with the latest golf equipment and apparel. The Trail also offers golf packages and special events, including golf schools and tournaments.
The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail a Must-Visit Destination
The RTJ Golf Trail courses are each uniquely designed to offer a distinctive golfing experience, ensuring that every round played is challenging and memorable. From the majestic landscapes to the meticulously maintained greens, every course on the trail reflects the exceptional craftsmanship of Robert Trent Jones Sr. Whether you’re playing through the rolling hills, navigating the strategically placed hazards, or enjoying the picturesque views of lakes and forests, each course provides a perfect blend of beauty and difficulty. Golfers of all skill levels will find that the diverse layouts and stunning natural settings make all the RTJ Golf Trail courses equally worth playing, offering a consistently high-quality experience that keeps players coming back for more.
According to the New York Times, “the Trail offers some of the best public golf on earth” due to its world-class courses, stunning natural scenery, and warm southern hospitality.
It’s more than just a collection of great golf courses — a true destination for anyone who loves the game. So, if you want a challenging round of golf with some of the best views in the south, we will see you on the tee box.
Photos courtesy of The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.
