Bear Trace at Harrison Bay – Jack Nicklaus Golf Along the Water Near Chattanooga
Bear Trace at Harrison Bay: Championship Golf with a Waterfront View
Located along the shores of Chickamauga Lake, Bear Trace at Harrison Bay is a true gem in Tennessee’s golf scene—and it’s only 30 minutes from downtown Chattanooga.
Designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, this public course is part of the Tennessee Golf Trail and offers a high-caliber experience at an affordable price. With water in view on nearly every hole, wide fairways, and an inviting layout, Bear Trace blends challenge with playability in a serene lakeside setting.
📍 Location, Hours & Info
📍 Address: 8919 Harrison Bay Rd, Harrison, TN 37341
📞 Phone: (423) 326-0885
🌐 Website: Bear Trace Golf Course
🚗 Distance from Chattanooga: Approx. 18 miles (30-minute drive)
🕒 Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
🔓 Access: Public course – open to all
Get directions to Bear Trace at Harrison Bay >
⛳ Course Features & Amenities
18-hole, par-72 course designed by Jack Nicklaus
Over 7,100 yards from the back tees
Water hazards on multiple holes with lake and wetland views
Driving range, putting green, and chipping area
Full-service pro shop and club rentals
Golf cart included with greens fee
On-site grill serving breakfast and lunch
Home course to wildlife including deer, turkeys, and the resident bald eagle
🌟 What Makes It Unique
What makes Bear Trace stand out isn’t just the Jack Nicklaus signature or the sweeping layout—it’s the combination of world-class design and natural Tennessee beauty. The course winds through mature trees, hugs the lake on several holes, and is part of a larger wildlife conservation area. The back nine in particular feels remote, quiet, and visually stunning. Whether you’re chasing a birdie or just enjoying the views, this is golf that feels like a getaway.
🗣️ What Golfers Are Saying
Regulars love the wide fairways, smooth greens, and layout that offers both forgiveness and challenge. Many mention how walkable and playable the course is for all levels. Visitors often highlight the condition of the course, the welcoming staff, and the incredible value. Some note that on busy weekends, pace of play can be a bit slower—but most agree it’s worth the wait for the views alone.
🧭 Tips for First-Time Players
🏌️ Don’t fear the water: It’s visible on many holes, but only in play on a few
⛳ Play early or late: The lighting and lake views are best at sunrise or sunset
🧢 Bring sunscreen: The course is fairly open with limited shade on the front nine
🐦 Look up on hole 10: You might catch a glimpse of the resident bald eagle
📸 Scenic Views & Photo Ops
This is one of the most photogenic public courses in Tennessee. Hole 7 curves beautifully along the lake, and the finishing holes offer clear sightlines of the bay. Bring your phone or camera—you'll want to snap a shot standing on the green with Chickamauga Lake behind you.
🍴 Nearby Recommendations
After your round, here are some great places to relax or grab a bite nearby:
Dockside Café: Laid-back lakefront dining with burgers, wings, and cold drinks
Website: Dockside CafeFresh Burger – Harrison, TN
A locally owned burger joint serving up handcrafted burgers, loaded fries, and milkshakes in a relaxed, friendly setting. A perfect spot for a casual bite after 18 holes.
Website: Fresh BurgerHarrison Bay State Park: Great for a post-round walk or picnic with lake views
Website: Harrison Bay State Park
📋 Quick Info Recap
Address: 8919 Harrison Bay Rd, Harrison, TN 37341
Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
Fees: Affordable public rates; varies by tee time
Par: 72
Holes: 18
Tee Options: Multiple – from forward to championship
🏁 Final Thoughts
Bear Trace at Harrison Bay brings big-course design and lakeside tranquility together in one affordable, accessible package. It’s a must-play for locals and visitors alike—and proof that world-class golf doesn’t have to be private or expensive.
Have you teed it up at Bear Trace? Tag @chattanoogalocal and let us know what you thought!
