Golf in Colorado comes with many perks.

Consistent sunshine, stunning views and abundant wildlife are three that quickly come to mind. There’s the increased distance on every shot, with balls traveling up to 15% farther than at sea level. And there are the dramatic elevation changes enjoyed from many a mountain tee box.

Golf season here is special, to be sure, and it’s in full swing across the state. Here are seven relatively affordable courses to consider this summer. Each will test your game without necessarily testing your wallet.

Copper Creek, Copper Mountain

Summit County is home to a handful of impressive golf courses, but none rises to the level of this one — at least in terms of elevation. Billed as the highest 18-hole golf course in North America, with the signature 14th tee box at 9,863 feet, this experience will take your breath away. The track is fun and challenging, and the prices are the most affordable in the county.

Devil’s Thumb, Delta

It is dry and desolate on this patch of the Western Slope, and the short drive from town to the golf course is far from remarkable. Soon, though, lush fields of grass and shimmering water features come into view. The layout is fair but challenging, with quality views of the namesake rock formation. The signature hole comes early at No. 3, a reachable par 4 loaded with risk.

Divide Ranch & Club, Ridgway

This is a postcard venue because Mount Sneffels is a postcard peak. Indeed, the San Juan Mountains dominate this peaceful sanctuary dotted with all types of wildlife. It is not easy for the course to measure up in terms of awe, but it too proves capable with its design — particularly on the finishing holes. The approach on the par-5 12th is not one you will soon forget.

Four Mile, Canon City

The claim is an experience “like no other course you have played.” And the claim is accurate. Think miniature golf on a grand scale; the only thing seemingly missing is putting through a clown’s mouth on the 18th hole. Undulating greens, blind tee shots, a rolling landscape and wild elevation swings are common. Average players can find success, and experts can be humbled.

Grand Elk, Granby

There is something about the place that just feels like Colorado. Maybe it is the mountains in every direction. Maybe it is the cool, crisp air. Maybe it is the natural beauty immaculately maintained on every inch of the semi-private golf club. “Not your typical mountain course,” the website says. That is because of the thought and creativity required for every single shot.

Lakota Links, New Castle

It is a long drive, but it is a beautiful drive. And once you reach the course, you will not be disappointed. The challenging layout demands your attention from the opening hole, one of several elevated tees on the mountain course. The surrounding beauty demands your attention as well, especially on the back nine. So focus on the golf or the scenery; you can’t go wrong.

Riverdale Dunes, Brighton

Never heard of Brighton? Well, here is at least one reason to plug the town into your GPS. The golf complex is home to a pair of 18-hole layouts: Riverdale Dunes and Riverdale Knolls. The Dunes is a Scottish-style links course. Players can expect deep pot bunkers, a bevy of water hazards and a myriad of mounds. The highly rated course is well-designed and well-maintained.