At Sky Valley Country Club
Words by Emily Davis | Photography by Courtney Snyder
Cradled within a serene valley at an impressive 3,500 feet above sea level, Sky Valley Country Club is distinctively located in Georgia’s highest and northernmost city. The location, which straddles the North Carolina/Georgia state line, offers proximity to the upscale enclave of Highlands while allowing for quick and easy access down to Atlanta through the hills of Appalachia. This serene community, now known for its picturesque views and vibrant social scene, has transformed dramatically since its early beginnings in the 1970s.
The story of Sky Valley begins with a group of investors who purchased a 2,500-acre cattle ranch in the late 1960s, sharing a vision of a unique resort destination. In 1969, Sky Valley Resort opened its doors to instant recognition as the southernmost ski resort community in the United States, featuring Georgia’s only snow skiing facilities. The city of Sky Valley was subsequently incorporated in March 1978, marking the beginning of its evolution into a distinct community.
However, the resort’s focus shifted over the years as new owners acquired Sky Valley Resort in 2004 and closed the ski slopes. The economic downturn of 2008 prompted further changes, notably impacting the ownership of the golf course. Recognizing the need to preserve and enhance their community, Sky Valley homeowners invested in the golf course, revamping the property into the Sky Valley Country Club. This shift marked the resort’s transformation into a semi-private, member-owned club that emphasizes sustainability and a neighborly spirit.
Since its rebirth on June 1, 2013, Sky Valley Country Club has flourished, with its membership growing steadily each year. The completed clubhouse now stands as a central hub where members savor excellent cuisine and professional service in a heavenly setting. The clubhouse offers options to please all diners with two distinct dining options — a casual clubhouse menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, and wraps and a more upscale weekend menu available on Friday and Saturday nights. Fan favorites include the rotating menu of flatbread pizzas, a Thursday night special, and the always-popular Reuben sandwich. On weekends, live local music often contributes to the lively and festive ambiance.
Now in its 11th season, the club continues to foster a robust and committed membership, with generations of families creating lifelong memories and expanding their social circles.
A Classic Combination of Amenities
At the heart of any country club lies its unique combination of member amenities. A central feature of the club, the Sky Valley golf course has evolved from its original Bill Watts design in the 1970s to the current redesign and layout by Bill Bergin in the early 2000s. Those enhancements maintained the course’s reputation for quality and challenge, helping to distinguish it from other courses in the area. Players engage in stimulating rounds of golf while appreciating the verdant valley floor nestled amongst the mountaintops that rise around it.
The construction of a championship-sized croquet lawn in 2018 added a new dimension to Sky Valley’s roster of activities. Recognized by the United States Croquet Association as the 2018 New Club of the Year, the club’s croquet program has since flourished. With close to 200 members actively participating, the croquet lawn provides a scenic environment for social and competitive play, further strengthening bonds within the community.
While not typically defined as an amenity, the area’s natural beauty is an acclaimed aspect of Sky Valley that exceeds expectations and demands recognition. At a relatively high elevation in the Southern Appalachians, the temperate climate, unpolluted air, lush forests, and cool, rushing rivers provide a balm to the soul. From a home base in Sky Valley, a short drive brings residents to a plethora of hiking trails, public lakes, and even the Blue Ridge Parkway. On the community’s property, Mud Creek Falls provides a beautiful landmark as well as a relaxing picnic spot. Mud Creek Falls Trail, approximately one mile in length, offers a peaceful hike to those who seek outdoor recreation.
Due to its alluring natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and location convenient to major cities like Atlanta, Chattanooga, and Charlotte, Sky Valley Country Club has become a sought-after venue for weddings and private events. While the club is new to hosting weddings, it offers various customizable options to cater to each couple’s unique vision. Whether it’s a small ceremony by the lake, a lively reception, or a rehearsal dinner, the expansive and inviting clubhouse provides the perfect setting for memorable celebrations.
Tailored Membership Options
A unique feature for a country club, Sky Valley offers a variety of membership options designed to match different interests and lifestyles. Each membership level provides unique benefits and privileges, ensuring every member can find their place within this dreamlike valley.
In 2024, Sky Valley Country Club introduced an Equity Membership. This membership can be passed down through the member’s immediate family, granting voting rights, options to serve on the Board of Directors, and an ownership stake in the club. This sense of ownership fosters a strong community bond and allows members to impact the club’s future directly.
The Full Golf Membership includes unlimited access to the golf course, cart usage, range, and simulator facilities. This level of membership is ideal for avid golfers who want to take full advantage of the club’s top-notch golfing amenities without interest in holding equity in the club.
A Clubhouse Membership provides access to the clubhouse facilities, including dining and social events. This arrangement is perfect for those who enjoy the social aspects of the club and want to participate in community events but are not interested in or committed to golf.
Introduced with the addition of a championship-sized croquet lawn in 2018, the Croquet Membership has rapidly gained popularity among locals who enjoy the game of croquet. The croquet program offers a fun and competitive diversion that enhances the club’s close-knit community.
Engaging with the Community
Sky Valley Country Club maintains its commitment to balancing member services while engaging with the broader community by hosting events and private functions. Although the clubhouse is exclusive to members, the golfing amenities are open to the public, allowing visitors to experience the magic of the course. The club’s bar, holding the charming moniker “The Corner,” is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday and provides a casual dining and social experience for all.
The club arranges its social calendar around a variety of popular events, particularly on major holidays such as New Year’s Eve, the Fourth of July, and St. Patrick’s Day. These parties often feature themed food and drink options, and members are encouraged to dress up and celebrate memorably. The warm-season months (May to October) are particularly vibrant, ushering in significant gatherings such as the member-guest event in mid-September and the club championships in early October. Sky Valley maintains a lively atmosphere even in the off-season, with highly anticipated events extending through Christmas and into the new year.
Looking Ahead
Sky Valley Country Club continues to look to the future with ambitious plans for membership growth, facility enhancements, and community gatherings.
As for social engagement, stated objectives range from hosting more golf tournaments to introducing new social events, such as a wine and dine night, during which a local sommelier pairs suggested wines with the menu. These initiatives aim to enhance Sky Valley’s already vibrant and fun atmosphere, ensuring it remains a cherished destination for members and guests for years to come.
The community has come a long way since its origins as a resort in the late 1960s. Today, Sky Valley Country Club remains a semi-private, member-owned organization offering a rich array of amenities and activities. With its varied membership options, engaging community events, and breathtaking natural setting, the club continues to provide an idyllic environment where generations of families create lifelong friendships and memories.
As the club looks to the future, its commitment to growth, enhancement, and community engagement remains unwavering. It promises many more years of entertainment and camaraderie for all who find their personal haven amongst the clouds of northernmost Georgia.