RESERVE, THE (1998)

 

DESERT REGION

Members only - 18 hole

74-001 Reserve Drive, Indian Wells, CA 92210

Tel: (760) 674-2240

 

Designed by Tom Weiskopf & Jay Morrish. Set at the base of the mountains, this is a long, challenging course. The length from the back tees is imposing, but is not as much a factor on your scorecard as course knowledge. Slight elevation changes and deceptive pin locations give the decided advantage to the member golfer. From downtown Los Angeles (about 125 miles east to the course): Take I-10 east, exit at Monterey Avenue, and turn right. Stay on this past Highway 111. It will turn into Highway 74. Turn left on Haystack and then right on Portola. Take the second left into the iron gates. The course features attractive bunkering and excellent conditioning, but fails to captivate. Could have made better use of the mountain cove areas that were reserved for real estate.

 

RESORT AT SQUAW CREEK (1991)

 

HIGH SIERRA REGION

Resort - 18 hole - cost: $55 - $120

400 Squaw Road, Olympic Valley, CA 96146

Tel: (530) 581-6637  

 

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. Set in a beautiful mountain meadow, there is nothing gentle about the challenge. The fairways are like island targets amid environmentally sensitive areas. Precise play is required, so bring plenty of golf balls. Squaw Creek is a four-star resort and spa. The course uses no chemicals in order to protect the environment. From Truckee (about 14 miles south to the course): Take I-80 east, to the Squaw Valley/Hwy. 89 south exit. Go 11 miles and turn right into Squaw Valley. Turn left on Squaw Creek Road. Everyone should want to play this attractive meadow course at least once. Once may be enough because even the low handicap players will be challenged to find the island targets in the afternoon breeze. And for heaven's sake, use good judgment in choosing your tees.