Elk River Club History: Golf Course Community in Banner Elk
In 1982, “I Can’t Go for That” by Daryl Hall and John Oates topped the music charts, ET: The Extraterrestrial Storybook by William Kotzwinkle made bestseller status, and many families wouldn’t miss an episode of M*A*S*H or 60 Minutes. In the same year, brothers Harry and Spencer Robbins recognized the beauty of our region and had a vision. Their goal: to create an exclusive community in the Blue Ridge Mountains with exceptional mountain golf and the best of High Country living. A partnership with Jack Nicklaus on the course design and an unwavering standard of quality led to the magnificent community covering 1,200 idyllic acres that is Elk River Club. Keep reading to learn more about the History of Elk River Club.
First Impressions
Nicklaus recalls his first visit to the Elk River Club development site, writing, “I first visited the site for Elk River in 1982 and saw a striking locale in the midst of scenic meadows and thought, ‘God beat me to this dramatic setting.’” Newspaper headlines about our community read: “The State’s Most Prestigious Second-Home Address,” going on to say, “the private club community has become a haven for many of the nation’s leading business executives, including a ‘who’s who’ of Tar Heel leaders.”
Charming Mountain Town
The town of Banner Elk, NC is a sought-after destination, offering an abundance of attractions, shops and restaurants amidst the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. The Banner Elk tourism website describes what visitors can expect: “Within 15 minutes of the town’s lone stoplight you can experience the great outdoors, fabulous dining, theater and the arts, family attractions like Grandfather Mountain, and the South’s two largest ski resorts: Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain.” Art on the Greene in the summertime is a favorite for many of our members, as is the Singing On The Mountain gospel festival (dating back to 1924). Concerts in the park, the Mast General Store, Linville Caverns, and still more bring visitors back time and again.
Elk River Club Members
From our early days, our members and the sense of community they foster set us apart. They are the soul of the Club, embodying a spirit of hospitality and adventure. Their love of the region and their desire to celebrate life make connecting with neighbors a breeze. Thanks to their diverse backgrounds, you won’t find a lull in the conversation. Opportunities to spend time together abound, whether meeting at the tennis courts, pool, neighborhood park, on the golf course or during one of our many community events.
We are proud of our long history of excellence and would love to provide you with information on Club membership. Visit our contact page to get in touch.
Elk River Club is a private mountain golf community in Western North Carolina with the first signature Jack Nicklaus golf course in the state. Residents and guests enjoy surrounding views of Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain and Grandfather Mountain. Amenities include an Equestrian Center, a private, on-premise airport, Har-Tru tennis courts, a pool complex, spa services, Clubhouse, casual and fine dining, fishing, events and more.