Circling Raven Golf Club continues to mature like fine wine, proving once again that excellence endures. As the Gene Bates–designed championship course owned by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe wraps up its 21st season on October 26, it celebrates a year marked by standout achievements in both recognition and performance.
National Recognition for a Top Tribal-Owned Course
Cementing its reputation among the country’s elite, Circling Raven earned the No. 17 position in Golfweek’s just-released list of the “Top 50 Best U.S. Casino Courses 2025.” The course has held a Top 20 slot for more than a decade and remains Idaho’s No. 1 public course, as ranked by Golf, Golf Digest, and Golfweek.
“We value critical acclaim from media experts as it demonstrates Circling Raven’s credibility to people who haven’t played it yet,” said Laura Penney, CEO of the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel. “Ensuring our amenities provide great satisfaction to our guests is always our priority.”
Growth on and off the Course
Under the leadership of Director of Golf Don Rasmussen, PGA, Circling Raven posted impressive business results this season.
- Revenue increased nearly 10% overall.
- Women’s participation expanded through new leagues and clinics, plus the hiring of the club’s first woman golf professional, Katie Ochoa.
- Stay-and-play packages rose 43%, and 15% of those players booked additional rounds during their visit.
Investing in Quality and Experience
Superintendent Kal Zaranec and his team oversaw several major upgrades, including bunker renovations, irrigation enhancements, and a short-game facility improvement. Combined with Bates’ thoughtful routing through 620 acres of pristine tribal land, the enhancements ensure Circling Raven continues to deliver a world-class experience from tee to green.
“We strive to provide a first-class experience in all ways—on the course, in the clubhouse, through our programs,” Rasmussen said. “Doing so keeps our guests coming back and entices new visitors to play Circling Raven.”
Year-Round Golf Opportunities
While the outdoor course closes from November until spring, golfers can still get their Circling Raven fix. The Circling Raven Golf Suites, introduced in late 2024 inside the Coeur d’Alene Casino, feature state-of-the-art simulators for league and drop-in play—keeping players swinging through the winter months.
Located about 55 minutes from Spokane International Airport (GEG), Circling Raven stretches 7,189 yards from the back tees and pairs dramatic scenery with a challenging but fair design. A nationally recognized golf shop and the Twisted Earth Restaurant complete the player experience.
For more information or to plan your 2026 golf trip, visit cdacasino.com/golf.
About Circling Raven Golf Club
An amenity of the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, Circling Raven Golf Club is a par-72 championship course set in the rolling hills of North Idaho. Designed by Gene Bates, the course has been named a “Top 100” layout by every major U.S. golf publication and continues to set the standard for excellence in Native-owned golf destinations.
