Look, if you’re driving down Pierce Park Lane and you see those towering cottonwoods, you might think you’re just looking at another old Boise neighborhood. But tucked behind those trees is a spot that basically defines the "unpretentious Boise" vibe. We’re talking about Pierce Park Greens, a place that isn't trying to be Hillcrest or BanBury. It’s a 9-hole, par-3 track that’s short, punchy, and—honestly—a total lifesaver for anyone who doesn't have five hours to kill on a Saturday.
A lot of people think this place is just for kids. That’s the first thing they get wrong. Sure, it’s the official home of First Tee — Idaho, and you’ll definitely see plenty of juniors out there learning that a "mulligan" isn't a official USGA rule, but the demographic is wildly mixed. You've got retirees who can chip a ball into a thimble, beginners who are just trying not to hit the clubhouse, and serious low-handicappers who come here just to sharpen their wedge game.
The First Tee — Idaho Takeover: Why It Matters
In October 2024, something huge happened that many locals actually missed. First Tee — Idaho officially bought Pierce Park Greens. Before that, they were essentially renters—borrowing space where they could. Now, the 27-acre property is theirs. This is kind of a big deal because it’s one of the few instances where a non-profit owns a for-profit "engine" to fund its mission.
What does that mean for you?
Basically, the "vibe" is shifting toward being a community hub. Director Nick Blasius and the team (shoutout to Katie McKelvey and Britnee Nieto) are turning it into what they call a “club for every kid.” But don't worry, the public can still walk on. That’s the beauty of it. It’s a "walk-on" facility, meaning you don't need to stress about booking a tee time three weeks in advance like you’re trying to get a table at a Michelin-star restaurant. You just show up.
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The Course Layout: It’s Shorter Than Your Last Grocery List
Let’s get technical for a second, but not too technical. This is a par-27 course. The total yardage? About 836 to 900 yards depending on who’s measuring the grass that day.
- Holes: 9
- Longest Hole: Usually tops out around 117 yards.
- Average Distance: Most shots are in the 80–100 yard range.
If you’re the type of person who loves the "grip it and rip it" style of play, your driver is going to stay in the bag. Honestly, you could play the whole round with a 9-iron, a sand wedge, and a putter. It’s the ultimate "short game" laboratory. Because the holes are so close together, you aren't hiking miles. It’s a flat, easy walk. In fact, they don't even use electric carts here unless there’s a mobility issue. You grab a push cart, or better yet, just carry your bag. It’s light anyway.
The Real Talk on the Driving Range
If there’s one thing people rave about at Pierce Park Greens, it’s the range. Unlike some of the "mats-only" ranges where hitting a ball feels like hitting a brick, Pierce Park uses real grass.
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There’s something about the sound of a club hitting actual turf that just feels right. They do close early on Sundays for a "clean pick" (meaning they pick up every single ball so they can mow on Monday), so don't show up at 5:00 PM on a Sunday expecting to blast a bucket. Also, a quick pro-tip: Monday mornings usually have a delayed start for the range because of that same mowing schedule.
Why the Location is... Complicated
Located at 5812 N Pierce Park Ln, it’s in a prime spot between State Street and Hill Road. But if you’ve lived in Boise for more than a week, you know the traffic on State Street is a nightmare.
The Ada County Highway District (ACHD) has been eyeing Pierce Park Lane for a while. There’s a project in the works—currently in the design phase for 2024–2026—to add multi-use pathways and maybe a roundabout at Hill Road. While this won't kill the golf course, it does mean the "quiet" neighborhood feel might get a bit more "construction-y" in the coming years.
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What You’ll Spend (Pricing Truths)
Golf is expensive. This place isn't.
Last we checked, a re-round is only about 10 bucks. Junior rates are usually around the same. Even if you’re a "grown-up," you’re looking at some of the most affordable green fees in the Treasure Valley. They also participate in the Rocky Mountain PGA Golf Pass, which sometimes gives you a "buy one, get one" deal on buckets or rounds.
Is it perfect? No.
Some reviewers have mentioned the pro shop staff can be a bit "curmudgeonly" if you catch them on a bad day, and there was a whole mini-controversy among the regulars when the porta-potty situation changed. But for a place where you can play 9 holes in 45 minutes and still have money left for a beer or a soda in the clubhouse, it’s hard to complain.
Actionable Steps for Your First Visit
- Check the Clock: They usually stop selling rounds or buckets an hour before they close (around 4:20 PM if they close at 5:20 PM). Don't be that person who rolls up five minutes before the gate locks.
- Leave the Big Wood at Home: Seriously, unless you want to hit a ball into someone's backyard three streets over, you don't need anything more than a 7 or 8 iron.
- Bring the Kids: If you want to introduce your kids to the game without the pressure of a "serious" course, this is the spot. There’s one water hazard. Just one. The stakes are low.
- Watch for the Bunnies: There’s a rumor—actually, it’s a verified fact—that a nearby house breeds bunnies, and they frequently escape to hang out on the fairways. It’s like a Disney movie, but with more golf balls.
- Join the Ladies League: If you’re looking for a community, their Spring Ladies League is surprisingly popular and usually runs for 8 weeks starting in April.
Pierce Park Greens is basically the "living room" of Boise golf. It’s comfortable, a little worn in the right places, and everyone is welcome. Whether you're there to fix a slice or just to enjoy the shade of those old cottonwoods, it’s a piece of Boise history that First Tee is keeping alive for the next generation.