October 6th, 2008 — CA, Dress code, Robert Muir Graves, Sonora, golf courses
Mountain Springs Golf Course is located in Sonora, CA
Phone: (209) 532-1000
Website: http://www.mountainspringsgolf.com
Course History:
This is one of the prettiest golf courses we've ever seen in this area, and it's easy to see why it has become such a local favorite. Robert Muir Graves designed the course, which opened in 1990. Although it is still relatively new, it has that old fashioned links feel and you'll be able to enjoy a challenging round of golf during your stay.
What You Need to Know:
There are several stay and play packages available in this area that will reduce the already low green fees even further. You can register your tee time by calling the number listed above. During peak visitor seasons, it may be difficult to get your time, especially if you don't call far enough in advance.
There is a dress code on this course, and they are pretty traditional. Men are advised to wear collared shirts and the course management asks that only two riders per cart be allowed. While they do not allow players to bring their own ice chests, you can get one at the course. In addition, all players must have their own golf clubs. Rentals are available at reasonable rates if you don't have your own set.
Overall, we found this to be a great golf course that had just the right amount of challenging play.
Playing Hints:
The fourth hole is quite tricky on this course, since you will be going uphill from the tee. We recommend putting as much power as you can into your tee shot to get through this hole. You'll also be dealing with a hidden bunker right to the left of the green, so go a little to the right on your approach shot.
The twelfth hole features a very tricky two tier green and will require a lot of patience and a good deal of skill to master. This is only a par three, but it can be difficult to get to the pin, especially if it is on the top tier. The fifteenth hole is especially tricky with an uphill lie and a dogleg to the left. Hit it hard and go a little to the right for the best layup. You'll need to hit about 230 yards to make it to the top of the hill. Once you're there, you'll have a clear view of the green, but it's not easy to get there.
Green Fees:
Monday - Thursday Friday Weekends and Holidays
18 Holes $27.00 $32.00 $40.00
Twilight $16.00 $19.00 $22.00
Senior (Mon and Tues) $17.00
Junior $13.00 $13.00 $13.00
Golf Carts - Monday through Friday
18 Holes - $30.00
9 Holes - $20.00
Club Rentals
18 Holes - $15.00
9 Holes - $8.00
How to Get There:
Go to Tuolumne County up Highway 108 and turn right at Lime Kiln Road (at the light). Follow this road until you see the Mountain Springs monolith on the right. The golf course is right there.
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June 30th, 2008 — CA, Nipomo, golf courses, restaurant
Phone Number: (805) 343-1214

Website: http://www.blacklake.com/
Course History:
This course is actually three nine hole courses in one, so you'll have the rate opportunity of being able to change up your game. This is one of the few 27 hole courses in the area and it's well worth the drive. Most players prefer to start with their "Lakes and Canyons" layout and then move to the more difficult configurations after they get the hang of the course.
What You Need to Know:
Tee times can be registered online or by calling the number listed above. This is a busy course so we recommend reserving your time a few days in advance to make sure you get the slot you want. Numerous specials are posted on their website throughout the month, and you can save quite a bit on your green fees by taking advantage of them.
The bar and grill is open for lunch and also provides catering services. This is a great place to relax after a round of golf and the food is spectacular. The pro shop is well stocked and carries just about anything you could ever need. It's a great place for gift shopping for the golfers on your list.
Numerous tournaments are held here throughout the year and since this is a championship course, play can be a little difficult at times. However, most players find that it is just challenging enough without being terribly intimidating. The course does stipulate that no ice chests are allowed on the course and any alcoholic beverages on the course should be purchased through the bar and grill.
They do not specify a dress code, but traditional golf attire is the norm for both men and women. We also recommend soft spikes. You can get the full list of course rules from the pro shop.
Playing Hints:
Although there are numerous water hazards and bunkers to deal with, most of the holes are pretty straightforward. The Oaks course has the straightest fairways but they are a bit long. The Canyon course is a little more complicated and more compact. It features some great water hazards and the play here is challenging. You'll need to have a really good short game for many of these holes.
The Lakes course is challenging and although the holes are a bit short, you'll have plenty of chances to practice your chip shots and putting. The greens here are a bit fast according to some players, so you'll need to get some practice in ahead of time.
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Green Fees:
WEEKDAY GREEN FEES
January-December
18 Regular $56
Senior (62 & over) $48
Twilight* $40
9-Holes (Before 8am & after 3pm) $20
WEEKENDS & HOLIDAYS
January-December
18 Regular $70
Senior (62 & over) $58
Twilight* $50
9-Holes (Before 8am & after 3pm) $25
* Call for twilight times & restrictions.
CARTS
18 Holes $17 per player
9 Holes $14 per player
Pull Cart 18 $6
Pull Cart 9 $3
Spectator Fee $12
MISCELLANEOUS
Club Rent 18 $30
Club Rent 9 $20
*All rentals include a sleeve of Titleist NXT Golf Balls
Demo Club Rental $40
Brand Names: Call
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