I was under the impression that things would start to get easier. I was wrong. As I fight the feeling of drowning in life’s challenges, I am desperately seeking ways to soothe my soul. When painting, exercising, yoga, meditation, singing, and hiking aren’t enough, I go golfing.

I spent a few days this spring golfing in Palm Desert, California, at the Marrakesh Country Club. It was a golfing experience I’ll never forget. I’m still new to the sport but find it extremely enjoyable.

I’m still trying to figure out what it is about golf that I like so much. Perhaps it’s releasing aggression through a golf club, the relaxation I feel from being outdoors and forgetting about life for a while, or learning something new.

One of my favorite places to golf is at the Fossil Trace Golf Club in Golden. The golf club opened in July 2003, approximately 64 million years after dinosaurs roamed the state.

Fossils of prehistoric creatures, including triceratops footprints, can be found on the course’s 12th green. Golfers will also find clay mining equipment remnants throughout the course.

The landscape alone explains why the 18-hole golf course has earned the title of “Best Golf Course in Denver” many times. Fossil Trace hosts tournaments, leagues, and limited private and corporate events.

The first time I discovered Fossil Trace was in 2021. Initially, I fell in love with the history and the view. After visiting a few times, the golf club helped me fall in love with the sport.

I may be hitting more breakfast balls than birdies, and I’ll most likely spend the rest of my life learning the game and its terminologies, but I’m sure looking forward to it all. I guess it’s the sum of all things golf that I enjoy.

If you haven’t been golfing this season or haven’t experienced Fossil Trace, the course is open year-round, and tee times are available through November 4, 2023. Whether you prefer putting, spending your day at the practice range, or want a golf lesson, Fossil Trace Golf Club is a beautiful place to do it.

Fossil Trace Golf Club is located at 3050 Illinois Street, Golden. You can find them on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/fossiltrace/, or you can give them a call at 303-277- 8750.