Once you get off the plane in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and take the twisting and curving pass to Driggs, Idaho, you have found a golfer’s heaven called Tributary, a 1,500-acre private residential community on the west side of the Teton mountain range. Designed by well-known Scottish architect David McLay Kidd of DMK Golf Designs, this 18-hole course is truly an experience that you will remember. Everywhere you look are spectacular views of the Teton Mountains and the endless streams that peacefully flow all throughout the course.
Driggs, Victor, Tetonia, and other Idaho towns share the Teton Mountain Range with the neighboring valley of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The Teton Valley is along the eastern border of Idaho, tucked against the 13,000 peaks of the Grand Teton range. Some call the Teton Valley “the quiet side of the Tetons.”
Tributary opened in 2008 and was refreshed in 2023. Kidd’s team originally focused on bunkers, but after a strategic review was then expanded to the entire course. Kidd created a breathtaking, stunning path, using what only nature gave him.
Surrounded by the Tetons, the course is carved around the many tributaries that meet several times within the landscape.
Kidd often says, “We give birth, but Mother Nature created an incredible path that guided our team to create a unique identity and harmony with nature that we found throughout Tributary. It is one of my great achievements and one of my best-kept secrets. I am very proud of the finished design”.
Tributary includes 52 acres of wetlands artistically woven through the golf course. Golfers will experience the challenges and joys of playing in high elevations with majestic skies and large fairways.
Each day, members and their guests have the opportunity to see through the clouds for a spectacular view of the Tetons. Golfers follow “nature paths” from each tee and green to the next hole.
Many who have played Tributary have said, “It reminds me of Scotland.” That would please Kidd for sure.
Each spring, ahead of the course opening, the Tributary team evaluates bunkers as well as the overall design. Taking into account new technology and equipment, some of the bunkers may be re-positioned, not only for experienced golfers, but also for less-experienced golfers, so they can play along side each other.
Tributary also features an incredible clubhouse with a restaurant and bar; a wellness facility with a fitness center and spa; a pool and hot tub with mountain views; seven fishing ponds; endless trails or cross-country skiing and walking; and a recreation barn with hatchet throwing, e-biking, and paddle boarding. Plus, an elevated boardwalk through the 500-acre property offers perfect opportunities for wildlife viewing.
I would highly recommend Tributary and definitely would play it again and again. Tributary has been consistently ranked as one of Golfweek’s best private courses.