High Country Club recently announced that they surpassed the 100-member milestone earlier this month. This represents a significant achievement for High Country as they only began accepting members in September 2005 and their growth in 2006 alone is close to 300%. Three months ago we commented on their solid growth and we’re impressed to see them surpass the 100-member mark so quickly.

As the most affordable destination club option, High Country Club has managed to expand the market. Their rapid growth could be seen as evidence that the destination club concept is one that has broad appeal beyond the ultra-affluent.

The lower price point is not the only attraction to new High Country Club members. The club has also generated interest by aspiring to a regional as well as a national focus. Club members in the Rocky Mountain region appreciate having seven of the clubs’ residences within driving distance. The club will soon bring this regional focus to Southern California with the addition of properties in La Costa, Mammoth, and Palm Springs.

In addition to the three California properties, High Country has four more residences under contract including one in New York City, their first metropolitan property. Their website indicates that they are pursuing residences in an another twelve destinations. VP of Operations, Heath Kirschner, tells us that the club is committed to those locations and is soliciting suggestions from members on where to expand next.

Readers of our Decision Guide to Destination Clubs will recognize that reaching the 100-member milestone is a key achievement for clubs. It effectively signals their transition from the “Charter” phase into the “Growth” phase. The acquisition of working capital through new member deposits and experience executing reservations for existing members should give prospective members confidence that a “Growth” club has improved chances for long-term stability.

Crossing the 100-member threshold also often brings with it a price increase and High Country Club is no exception. The membership deposits and annual dues across all three plans will increase on August 15th. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines now would be the time to contact them.