DRAGON AT GOLD MOUNTAIN, THE (1997)

HIGH SIERRA REGION

Resort: 18 hole -cost: $65 - $120

3887 County Road A-15, Graeagle, CA 96103

Tel:(800) 368-7786

Designed by Robin Nelson. This is a target golf course with rolling fairways and excellent views. The fairways are narrow and surrounded by trees. The smart golfer will use a driver sparingly, because if you miss the short grass, you will find yourself in the trees or taking a drop from a lateral water hazard. The greens are on the small side and sloping, but are kept at a manageable speed. Keep the ball in play and enjoy the scenery. This course was admitted into the Audubon International Signature Program. The course is open May to November. From Truckee (about 50 miles northwest to the course): Take Highway 89 north to Sierraville (26 thiles). At Sierraville, turn left at the stop sign. Five miles before Graeagle, there is a sign, Highway 89 splits (A-15); go right for five miles. The course is on the right. The motto is "Send me your heroes". Many of those heroes have ended up in body bags or have retreated to the clubhouse, which may be even more spectacular than the course. The Dragon evokes strong emotion. We like that. You may love it, you may hate, but you won't forget it.

DRAGONRIDGE COUNTRY CLUB (2000)

DESERT REGION

Semi-Private - 18 hole -cost: $150 - $225

552 South Stephanie Street, Henderson, NV 89012

Tel: (702) 614-4444

Designed by Jay Morrish, David Druzisky. With split fairways and blind tee and approach shots, don't wager with a member if you have not played this course. Course knowledge is key. Friendly off the tee, this course will challenge you fairway to green. DragonRidge is located in a natural desert surrounding with plenty of scenic outcroppings and well-placed traps. Carts are includ­ed and mandatory. From the Las Vegas Airport (about 11 miles southeast to the course): Take I­215 east. Take Exit 2/Valle Verde. Go south on Valle Verde until it dead-ends. Cross the dead end to the gate. This is 15 to 20 minutes from the Strip.