ETOWAH – Nestled among the mountains of Western North Carolina are various and sundry coves and crannies where mountain peaks converge, leaving a sliver of bottom land once used for farming by the early settlers. Many of these have been converted into housing developments in recent years. The lure of mountain scenery, with the creeks and lakes that are created have become an attraction to those relocating into the area. One of the most scenic of these in the Henderson County area is Cummings Cove.

Located some seven miles west of downtown Hendersonville on Highway 64 near Etowah, Cummings Cove is easily accessible to both Hendersonville and Brevard residents. In addition to the residential community, Cummings Cove also has one of the most picturesque golf courses in the area. Carved out of the landscape is an 18-hole, par 71 course that can be challenging as well as possessing many beautiful mountain scenes that are enjoyed by those playing the course. Cummings Cove is described by Jim Fagan, an assistant in the pro shop, as a semi-private course. “You don’t have to be a member to play Cummings Cove, but we’re moving in that direction,” Fagan said. Currently there are some 160 members.

One of the most challenging and beautiful scenes on the course is No. 10, a par 3 hole that requires a drive across Dam Boulder Lake. The hole plays from 135 to 210 yards. The green juts out into the lake, where two water fountains have been placed creating a beautiful scene for the golfers.

There are five levels of play on the Cummings Cove course. From the orange tees, preferred by most of the ladies, the course plays 4,775 yards. The silver tees, used by most seniors, is 5,123 yards. From the white tees, the course is 5,850 yards. The Carolina Blue tees makes the course play at 6,146 yards, and
the gold tees raises the yardage to 6,415.

The back nine at Cummings Cove was renovated two years ago to add more scenic mountain views, a project praised by many of those who play the course, according to Fagan.

“Our course is not just a straight shot to the green,” Fagan said. “We have used the natural terrain to incorporate the many streams and lakes, and several dog legs that wind around the hills and small mountains.”

Another unique feature of Cummings Cove is the rest rooms, ice machines and water fountains that dot the landscape for the convenience of the players.

Fagan reports the course to be in excellent condition, although it could use some rain. The fairways are Bermuda grass, and the greens are of Bent grass.

In addition to the golf course, Cummings Cove also has a full restaurant and club house. Lunch is served each day in the restaurant and dinners on Friday and Saturday.

During the summer, the golf course is open from 7:30 A.M. until 8:00 P.M., seven days a week. The only day the course is closed during the year is on Christmas Day.

In operation for 22 years, Cummings Cove has become a course recognized for excellence by area golfers. There are several fee options, including senior rates, first time player rates, etc. It is suggested to call 891-9412, ext. 1 to get the current rates and tee times.

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area wanting to get in a game while on vacation, Cummings Cove is one course you might want to check out.

The Golf Shop offers essential golf equipment, golf club rental and top quality clothing. Under the guidance of Bill Kowske, the golf staff is eager to provide private club service to visiting golfers as well as regular members. Bill Kowske, Director of Golf Operations, has a passion for the game of golf. He is an active player with the Golfweek Amateur Golf Tour and has represented the Asheville Division in National Events. A former Chrysler Corporation executive, Bill relocated from Michigan to Cummings Cove in 2006 with his wife Lee, also a golfer. Bill’s enthusiasm, expertise and attention to detail are appreciated by both members and visitors.
The excellent condition of this North Carolina Golf Course is the result of a hard-working year-round crew of twelve under the direction of Golf Course Superintendent Tim Wemple and Assistant Superintendent Brooks Lowder. Tim has worked in golf course management for more than 20 years with nearly half of that time devoted to constantly improving the Cummings Cove course. About his work, Tim says: “Being a golf course superintendent is not just a job, it’s a life – and I love it.”

Cummings Cove golf course is open year round. Rates vary with the season and day of the week. Please call the golf shop for rates and tee time – 828.891.9412.