Rumbling Bald’s Apple Valley Course to reopen

Photo courtesy of Rumbling Bald

Rumbling Bald, the 36-hole golf resort in Lake Lure, N.C., will reopen its Dan Maples-designed Apple Valley Golf Course later this summer featuring new Champion bermudagrass greens on all 18 holes.

Apple Valley began its transition from bentgrass to the smooth-rolling bermudagrass in June 2019. After exhaustive research and testing, Champion was selected for its superior performance profile, heat tolerance and ease of maintenance. It has speeds up to 2 feet faster than other ultradwarf turfgrass cultivars as measured by a stimpmeter.

Champion Bermuda is available from Champion Turf Farms in Bay City, Texas. Other North Carolina courses with the grass include Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte (G-12), site of the 2017 PGA Championship, and famed Pinehurst No. 2, host of the 1999, 2005, 2014 and 2024 U.S. Opens.

Photo courtesy of Rumbling Bald

“Golfers are going to love putting on these greens, and my staff is going to enjoy taking care of them,” said Matt Lovell, Rumbling Bald director of golf course maintenance. “Bentgrass requires more maintenance throughout the summer, from additional water to fans. With Champion Bermuda, we’ll be able to focus entirely on the golfer experience.”

Enhancements to both Apple Valley and sister course, Bald Mountain include tree removal and new landscape to E-Z-GO golf carts with USB ports and more.

“Our golf courses are an invaluable amenity here at Rumbling Bald, and we’ve committed to providing guests with an outstanding playing surface from tee to green,” said General Manager Jeff Geisler. “The greens on Apple Valley are growing in nicely, and we’re excited to share them with the golfing world this summer and fall.”

Photo courtesy of Rumbling Bald

Rumbling Bald’s marquee course, Apple Valley stretches to nearly 6,800 yards and features expansive views of Bald Mountain and the surrounding Lake Lure area. Maples estimated 75 percent of shots at Apple Valley are either level or downhill, virtually unheard of for a mountain course. Shimmering mountain lakes adorn 12 holes, but water only occasionally comes into play.