About Us
About The Course
Nestled in the heart of the stunning Okanagan Valley, our golf course has been a beacon of golfing excellence for over half a century. Known for its breathtaking views and meticulously maintained greens, our course offers a unique blend of challenge and beauty that attracts both seasoned golfers and newcomers alike.
From the sweeping fairways of our signature 460-yard par 4 to the precise demands of the picturesque 13th hole, each round promises a rewarding experience. As praised by our patrons, “Absolutely beautiful course! Greens are in excellent shape: quick, very true rolls. Every hole is a photo op. Lots of variety from big, long bruiser holes to the shorter, target-specific holes. Great value. Friendly pro shop.” —David P., 2018.
Join us and discover why we are continually rated as the Okanagan’s premier golfing destination, offering more than just a game, but a memorable journey through the art of golf.
Our Evolution
A Rich History
Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course, formerly known as Cherry Grove Golf & Country Club, has a storied past rooted in community and resilience. Before becoming a golf haven, the land was leased for vegetable farming, primarily tomatoes. When this venture ceased, the land lay dormant until Paul Eisenhut Jr. (Eisenhut Insurance), his father Paul Eisenhut Sr., and Don Coy, in collaboration with Chief Manual Louie of the Osoyoos Indian Band, secured a lease in March 1961. They envisioned an 18-hole golf course, a motel, and a campground, covering 95 acres including beach property and what is now a mobile home park.
Building the Course
Construction of the golf course began on March 13, 1961, with significant contributions from Band Members. Despite challenges like moving Tuc el Nuit Drive and maintaining the irrigation system, the grass was planted by June. The course unofficially opened for a trial in the fall, and peaches planted nearby helped fund initial operations. Sadly, Paul Eisenhut Sr. passed away just before the irrigation system was tested.
Growth and Development
The original Clubhouse, constructed in 1962, was heated solely by a wood fireplace and served the community until its demolition in 2000. Financial constraints led to the inclusion of new investors, such as Art and Agnes Smok, Bob Gayle, Louie Hannick, and George and Audrey Minns. The course officially opened on June 15, 1962, with Chief Manual Louie and Dave Pugh (M.P.) hitting the first balls. Social activities, including legendary poker games and parties, made it a community hub.
New Ownership and Expansion
John Nunes became the Greenskeeper in 1965, maintaining the course until his retirement in the late 1980s. By 1967, due to the demanding nature of running the course, the Eisenhut family sold it to a consortium from Prince Rupert, who introduced the mobile home park, boosting cash flow and enabling clubhouse expansions.
Modernization and Renovation
In 1994, the Osoyoos Indian Band purchased the course, now named Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course, and invested in significant upgrades, including a driving range opened in 1998. By 1999, the Band embarked on expanding the 9-hole course to a championship course, incorporating ideas from Band Members Sam Baptiste, Tony Baptiste, and Dave George, along with Tony Patricinio, John Reid, and Grant Montgomery. This expansion included redesigning five existing holes and adding 13 new ones.
Legacy and Leadership
Dave George, instrumental in the course’s design, served as General Manager from 2001 to 2007 and resumed the role in 2015. Today, Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course stands as a testament to the community’s vision and determination, offering a premier golfing experience in the heart of the Okanagan.
Our Mission
Our vision at Nk’Mip (pronounced ‘Inkameep’) Canyon is to be recognized as one of the Premier Golf Courses in Canada. We will accomplish this by providing both exceptional golf and social experiences while at the same time promoting fellowship and camaraderie among our membership. We will present our Golf Course to a consistently high standard without compromising the natural characteristics and beauty of the land.
By doing this we hope to retain our identity as a true championship golf course with playing conditions that are fair and enjoyable by all levels of skill. We will make our entire facility enjoyable, accessible and affordable to all future and existing members, therefore consistently promoting the game of golf. We will strive to exceed the expectations of all our guests and members so that they feel completely at home every time they visit our facility and that they will look forward to their return visit.
We will pride ourselves in providing a positive work environment, opportunities for OIB members as a training ground and conduct all business dealings with honesty, integrity and respect. We must believe that everyday is the day that the reputation of our facility will be created and judged. We believe that the team we have assembled will meet the challenge and live this belief. In our pursuit of perfection we will “tolerate excellence”. This level of excellence will not be easily achieved but when it is, we will have reached the level by which other premier courses set their standards.
The course is designed to be played as either nine or 18 holes, but three of the holes have two separate greens, while the other six holes have greens large enough to have two separate pin placements. There are also four or five tee boxes on each hole
Golfers’ Choice 2022
25 hidden gem golf courses in Canada
Gold Medal Winner 2015
The annual Golfers’ Choice lists are compiled by analyzing the ratings and reviews submitted by members of our community throughout the year. We use a “Weighted Overall” score to select the top 25 in Canada. Courses must offer public access and have received at least three reviews in 2021 and 10 all-time to be eligible for this year’s list.