The Inside Swing

Innisbrook Resort - Copperhead

Tampa, Florida

Host of the Valspar Championship, Copperhead at Innisbrook is a demanding layout that winds through dense Florida forest. The infamous "Snake Pit" finishing holes (16-18) are among the toughest closing stretches on the PGA Tour.

History & Heritage

The Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort was designed by Larry Packard and opened in the early 1970s in Palm Harbor, Florida. Copperhead winds through dense corridors of pine, cypress, and oak on rolling terrain unusual for the Gulf Coast.

Copperhead has hosted a PGA Tour event since 2000, currently the Valspar Championship. The final three holes -- the "Snake Pit" -- rank among the toughest closing stretches on Tour.

Salamander Hotels & Resorts maintains PGA Tour standards while keeping it playable for resort guests.

Signature Holes

5
Hole 5 Par 4 · 455 yards

A demanding par 4 through a tight forest corridor.

14
Hole 14 Par 3 · 210 yards

A long par 3 over water to a green in the forest.

16
Hole 16 Par 4 · 465 yards

Start of the Snake Pit. Tight trees and a long approach.

17
Hole 17 Par 3 · 190 yards

Snake Pit centerpiece. Par 3 over water to a bunker-surrounded green.

What to Expect

Copperhead feels more like a Carolina mountain course than typical Florida. At 7,340 yards with par 71, accuracy off the tee is essential.

The Snake Pit (holes 16-18) provides championship-level challenge even from forward tees.

Playing Tips

Leave the driver in the bag on several holes. Accuracy trumps distance here.

On the Snake Pit, par is a great score. Take enough club on 17 to clear the water.

Highlights

  • Valspar Championship host
  • Infamous "Snake Pit" finish
  • Dense forest corridor design

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the public play Copperhead?
Yes. Green fees range from $100 to $250.
What is the Snake Pit?
Holes 16-18: two par 4s sandwich a par 3, one of the PGA Tour's toughest closes.
When is the Valspar Championship?
Typically March at Copperhead.
How does Copperhead differ from typical Florida courses?
Rolling, tree-lined terrain rather than flat layouts.

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