What Makes The Point Worth the Journey to Invermere
The Point is one of two 18-hole courses at Copper Point Golf Club and it's significantly longer and tougher than its little sister, The Ridge. Opened for play in 2004 and fashioned by Gary Browning, The Point pitches and rolls through the foothills of the Kootenay Rockies.
Browning's design philosophy emerges clearly across these mountain foothills. Rather than fighting the natural terrain, he embraced the dramatic elevation changes and rocky outcroppings that define this corner of British Columbia. The result is a course that feels both challenging and organic, where every shot demands respect for the landscape.
The Point extends to just over 6,200 metres (6,800 yards) from the back markers, playing to a par of 70, with holes set out as two returning nines. This unique par configuration creates strategic variety rarely found in mountain golf, with the design favouring precision over pure power.
Meet "The Formidable Finisher" - Why the 18th Haunts Golfers
On the back nine, the par four 18th is a formidable finisher, swinging right around water on the way to the home green. This closing hole epitomizes everything that makes The Point special - dramatic risk-reward decisions with the Kootenay Rockies as your backdrop.
The water hazard isn't just decoration; it's a strategic element that forces golfers to make crucial decisions under pressure. The right-to-left movement around the water creates multiple lines of attack, each with distinct advantages and consequences.
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How Browning Conquered the Kootenay Rockies Terrain
The inward half plays significantly shorter than the outward half, thanks in no small part to having three par threes and only one par five on this circuit. This asymmetrical design reflects Browning's masterful use of the natural topography.
The front nine takes full advantage of the expansive foothill terrain, allowing for longer holes that showcase the dramatic mountain vistas. The back nine, compressed into tighter terrain, demands different skills - precision iron play and strategic course management become paramount.
Three Standout Holes That Tell Different Stories
Key holes on the layout include the first of the par fives, rated stroke index 1, at the 492-metre (538-yard) 3rd, along with the par four 8th, which pinches in considerably as the fairway approaches the green.
Each memorable hole reveals different aspects of Browning's design brilliance. The stroke-index-1 par five demands respect from the very beginning, setting the tone for the championship test ahead. The strategic par four 8th hole demonstrates how narrowing fairways can create psychological pressure without relying on excessive length.
Why Every Shot Feels Like a Mountain Adventure
The Point's elevation changes create golf shots you simply can't experience elsewhere. Dramatic elevation changes affect club selection, while the mountain air adds distance considerations that challenge even experienced golfers. The visual intimidation factor of the Kootenay Rockies backdrop adds another layer of complexity to every decision.
Beyond Golf: What Makes Copper Point a Complete Destination
Located in British Columbia's beautiful Windermere Valley, Copper Point Golf Club is just minutes from the popular tourist destinations of Invermere, Radium Hot Springs, and Fairmont Hot Springs.
This location provides the perfect basecamp for exploring the entire Columbia Valley region. Copper Point Golf Club, with both The Point Course and The Ridge Course, are amongst the newest championship courses in the Kootenay Rockies. Having two distinctly different courses on-site means you can experience diverse golf challenges without leaving the property.
Your Perfect Kootenay Rockies Golf Basecamp
Invermere and Panorama are easily accessible whether traveling via automobile, airplane or bus, and serve as a welcoming gateway to the entire Kootenay Rockies region. The Windermere Valley location puts you within easy reach of multiple golf courses, outdoor adventures, and scenic attractions.
The proximity to Radium Hot Springs and Fairmont Hot Springs adds relaxation options after challenging rounds. Panorama Mountain Resort provides additional recreational opportunities, making this region ideal for extended golf vacations.
What to Do When You're Not Playing Golf
The Columbia Valley offers hiking trails, water sports on Windermere Lake, and scenic drives through Kootenay National Park. Head west from Calgary on Highway 1 (through scenic Banff and Kootenay National Parks) and then south on Highway 93. This route itself becomes part of your vacation experience, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Radium Hot Springs provides the perfect way to unwind after a round, while the charming town of Invermere offers dining and shopping options that complement your golf experience.
The Smart Way to Plan Your Point Adventure
Book accommodation in Invermere or at one of the nearby resort properties to maximise your time in the Columbia Valley. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for optimal weather and course conditions. The mountain location means weather can change quickly, so pack layers and be prepared for varying conditions.
Getting There: Turn the Journey Into Part of the Experience ✈️
Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the most common access point to Invermere. It's 294 kilometres (183 miles) from Invermere through the world famous Banff and Kootenay National Parks. It takes approximately 3 hours 47 minutes to drive from Calgary Airport (YYC) to Invermere.
The closest international airport to Invermere is located near Cranbrook BC. The Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) is just 142 kilometres (88 miles) from Invermere. For a shorter drive, consider flying into Cranbrook, though Calgary offers more flight options from major cities.
The drive from Calgary takes you through some of Canada's most spectacular scenery, including Banff and Kootenay National Parks. Plan extra time for photo stops and wildlife viewing along this iconic Canadian Rockies route.
When to Visit: Timing Your Rocky Mountain Golf Experience
The golf season typically runs from late April through October, depending on mountain weather conditions. Late spring through early autumn offers the most reliable weather, while shoulder seasons may provide better rates and fewer crowds. The dramatic mountain setting means weather can change rapidly, so check conditions and pack accordingly.
Summer months provide the longest days and warmest temperatures, ideal for maximising your golf time. Early autumn can offer pleasant playing conditions with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
