Haystack celebrates 50 years, mourns loss

Haystack Mountain Golf Course recently marked 50 years in business on Niwot road, but this week also marked the passing of owner Lois Ebel.

Mike Hammerstone, who has worked at the course for eight years, sent out this statement on Monday.

“It is with the heaviest and saddest of hearts that I regret to inform you that Lois Ebel, owner of Haystack Mountain Golf Course, has passed away. She passed peacefully surrounded by family and loved ones. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.”

The party earlier this month was full of food, live music and discounted rounds of golf. Hammerstone said it was Lois’ way of saying thanks to the customers over the years.

“That’s why we did the party,” Hammerstone said. “Lois did it that way because she wanted to give back to our customers. The people that have been coming here for 50 years. Just to say thank you for supporting us.”

The Ebel family bought the property in 1963, and converted it to the course in 1966.

It is a nine-hole executive course, walking only, with three- and four-par holes.

“We’re a pretty laid-back golf course,” Hammerstone said. “It’s nestled back here in Niwot, it’s gorgeous out here. A lot of people consider it a hidden gem.”

The course is privately owned but open to the public, fees are $14 and $11 for seniors and juniors. They do not take tee times, just walk-ins.

“We enjoy being a big part of the Niwot community,” Hammerstone said. “It’s been in the same family for 50 years.

Heavy rains in 2013 put a damper on the course, but thanks to the resolve of Lois and the management, the course was able to open back up. Only bridge work on the ninth hole remains to be done.

“After the flood in 2013, we got rocked,” Hammerstone said. “It absolutely devastated us, we weren’t even sure if we could re-open. But we got some money from the government and were able to build things back up. All of 2014 was a wash, no pun intended. We were wiped out.”

Family and friends of Lois are working through their difficult time, but Hammerstone wants the community to know that they appreciate the support.

“This was our way to say thank you to everyone,” Hammerstone said. “We want people to know that the family appreciates them.”