From the east, Denver is the gateway to the Rockies and has long been known for offering the best skiing in the U.S. But Colorado's largest city and capital has plenty more to offer, which is why in recent years it has been one of America's fastest-growing cities. Situated at the eastern base of the range, you're just a few miles from the ascent into the mountains, a trek that millions of skiers and snowboarders make each year.

In the spring and summer months, Denver transforms into a golf destination, offering the gamut from municipal-run to high-end, private clubs. Each course offers something different thanks to the city's diversity of landscapes. Whether you want to play desert or mountain golf, there are many options available. Fossil Trace Golf Club is one of Denver's "must plays." This public course sits directly adjacent to the foothills of the Rockies. Though it may not seem long, the undulating greens will test even the best golfers.

Arrowhead Golf Club, a Robert Trent Jones Jr. design, is another top-ranked public course. If you can get a tee time, the private Country Club of Castle Pines is worth a visit. The course is a Jack Nicklaus signature design that Nicklaus said anyone can play and "feel like he's had a great time no matter what his score, simply because of the views. Fortunately, the Ridge Course at Castle Pines is public and also a spectacular mountain course anyone can play.

SEE THE LIST: Top 10 golf courses open to the public in Denver