BLACK MOUNTAIN GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB (1959)

DESERT REGION

Semi-Private - 27 hole - cost: $40 - $100

500 Greenway Road, Henderson, NV

Tel: (702) 565-7933

Designed by Bob Baldock, George Williams. There are three nines, the Founders, Horizon, and Desert. The Founders/Horizon combination is fairly clear of obstacles, but the fairways can be narrow, with trees coming into play. The greens are on the small side, and experienced players have learned that they break toward town. The new Desert nine is true to its namesake with large bunkers, rolling fairways and challenging green sites. The yardage listed is for the Horizon/Founders combination. The public is allowed to play after 11 a.m., earlier if there are cancellations. Carts are included, but walking is allowed on weekdays. From the Las Vegas Strip (about 20 miles to the course): Take I-15 South to I-215 East. Follow I-215 to US 95 and exit south. Take the Horizon exit and make a left. Follow to Greenway Road and make a left. Black Mountain is located a quarter of a mile on the right. If you are looking for a desert challenge, the Horizon/Founders combination will leave you disappointed. The Desert nine is much more in line of what destination golfers expect from Las Vegas. However, a friendly staff, less expensive green fees, and three forgiving layouts may be just what you need in the land of excess.

BLACK OAK GOLF COURSE (1986)

GOLD COUNTRY REGION

Public - 9 hole - cost: $9 - $13

2455 Black Oak Road, Auburn, CA 95602

Tel: (530) 878-1900

Designed by John Walker. Nothing is subtle about Black Oak. This is a hilly, exacting course where you will encounter uphill, downhill, and side-hill lies. Plenty of water, creeks, native oaks, and traps come into play. For the right-handed player who has a penchant for snap hooking off the tee, be prepared to re-tee most of the day. From Sacramento (about 40 miles east to the course): Drive east on I-80 to Auburn. Take the Dry Creek exit and head west. Turn on Black Oak Road, and follow to the course.