The Uncompahgre Plateau in southwestern Colorado is no stranger to the pioneer spirit. According to local conservationists, it is also a land worth caring for. According to one conservation cooperative group, it features “a high-domed sage and juniper-covered upland bisected by steep-walled canyons that rises from the Colorado River and sweeps 70 miles southeast to the base of the snow-capped San Juan Mountains.”
Nestled in this idyllic western landscape is Cornerstone, a 6,000-acre residential community and private resort club located just outside of the city of Montrose. The development is a celebration of casual mountain lifestyle, five-star personal service and nothing less than a breathtaking Greg Norman-designed golf course.
“Cornerstone will be a truly natural golf experience,” Norman said of his creation, which opened for play in 2007. “The course brings aspens, sage and ephemeral streams into play, and allows the natural landscape to dictate the flow of play.”
Norman’s “least disturbance” design philosophy limits clearing and takes full advantage of the natural features of the Cornerstone landscape. The course site, which covers more than 350 acres, was handpicked by Norman and allows golfers of all abilities to enjoy aspen groves, dramatic rock outcroppings and unending mountain views.
The par-72 course features at least five tees on each hole for a spectacular round of golf for players of all levels. A 20-plus acre practice facility is also included with multiple driving tees and target greens, putting and chipping practice areas and a family “pitch-n-putt” course.
Golf Course Superintendent Tom Huesgen oversaw the construction of the course. Prior to joining Cornerstone, Tom was superintendent at the prestigious Pebble Beach Golf Links where he prepared golf courses for the US Open and PGA Tour events.
The first nine holes opened for play in summer 2007, followed by the grand opening for all 18 holes in the summer of 2008, along with the opening of the Golf Clubhouse, where award-winning Executive Chef Peter O’Brien serves up his five-star creations and trademark dishes.
As impressive as the course is, it is only one slice of a much bigger pie.
Camp Cornerstone, for example, is a vibrant activity center for both children and adults offering numerous diversions and personal enrichment activities. Activities at the Camp Cornerstone include, stargazing, fly-fishing lessons, overnight camping and cooking classes, as well as photography/art programs for members of all ages.
Located in the heart of Telluride’s Mountain Village, The Mountain Club is within steps of the year-round transportation gondola to the historic Town of Telluride. The Mountain Club is a private haven for après ski relaxation or intimate social gatherings and is open to members year-round.
Centennial Ranch lies on the Uncompahgre River and is available for private guided fly-fishing by all Cornerstone Club members. In addition to unparalleled access to fly-fishing, members can experience traditional life on the ranch in the property’s authentic log “line cabin.” There members can enjoy a delicious meal cooked on the wood burning stove and delight in smores made by the fireplace.
For more information about the Cornerstone community and its 18-hole recreational centerpiece, call 970-650-2000 or 877-855-7273, and be sure to visit cornerstonecolorado.com.