Burning Tree Club

Overview: Burning Tree Club in Bethesda, Maryland, is a private parkland course set in a secluded, heavily wooded landscape. Designed by C.H. Alison, the layout features a traditional walk-friendly routing that utilizes the natural rolling contours of the land. Small green complexes, strategic sand bunkers, and tight fairways characterize the design, demanding accurate shot-making from tee to green to score well.

History: Opened in 1923, the course was designed by Alison to provide a private and quiet retreat for its members. The club has maintained its original layout and traditional focus on walking play for over a century. Minor refinements have been made over the years to preserve the original Colt, Mackenzie, and Alison design principles.

Did You Know? The club has a long-standing tradition of welcoming U.S. Presidents, starting with Warren G. Harding, and many commanders-in-chief have played rounds here to escape the pressures of Washington. The course features custom tee markers commemorating these presidential visits, keeping this unique political heritage alive on the fairways.