BEAR MOUNTAIN GOLF COURSE (1921)

INLAND EMPIRE REGION

Public - 9 hole - cost: $17 - $28

43101 Goldmine Street Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Tel: (909) 585-8002

Designed by uknown. If you cannot hit the ball straight, you will receive little advantage from the mountain location-7,000 feet above sea level. Instead, your ball will find itself among the many pine trees, homes, or in the creek. Although located in the mountains, the course is set in gently rolling hills and is easily walkable. From downtown Los Angeles (about 98 miles northeast to the course): Take I-10 east. Exit at Orange Avenue in Redlands. Turn left toward Higl1.way 38. Turn right on Ligonia Avenue, which becomes Highway 38. Turn left at Highway 18, which turns into Big Bear Boulevard. Turn left on Moonridge Road. Follow the signs to Big Bear Mountain.

BEAR'S BEST (2001)

DESERT REGION

Public: 18 hole - cost: $125 - $245

West Aamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89134

Tel: (702) 804-8500

Designed by Jack Nicklaus. This course is a compilation of some of Jack Nicklaus's favorite western holes. As a replica course, many of the holes are only vaguely recognizable, though the layout stands well on its own It is eminently playable, in excellent condition, and you can expect first-class service. From the Las Vegas Airport (about 20 miles northwest to the course): Take I-215 west, exit at Flamingo, and turn left (west) past Town Center. The course is on the left. The pricing here seems dear until you realize that the rate includes the fee (not tip) for a forecaddie. Considering that this forecaddie program is truly one of the best in America, it comes together for a memorable experience.