Rhodes Ranch Golf Club

Channeling the mature beauty of the terracotta canyons and soaring Desert Hills, there's little the par-72 rated Rhodes Ranch needs by way of scenic introduction. Located on the far-flung South-West desert fringe of Las Vegas, Rhodes Ranch Golf Club is a tropical desert resort, that takes the beauty of it's surroundings and molds them into a stunning layout fitting for even championship competitions.

Launched in 1997, Rhodes Ranch Golf Club is symbolic of a time when nearly all Nevada layouts were inspired by their natural surroundings. Considered an architect at one with nature, Ted Robinson envisaged a place reminiscent of Las Vegas before the boomtown spread – an oasis amid the arid, dusky desert. Curtained by soaring palm trees and dense forest shrubs, the approach to Rhodes Ranch conveys some aspect of Robinson's intent, although nothing truly prepares for the 18-hole wonders beyond the iron gates.

Located less than 7 miles from the tourist trap of central Las Vegas, the locale of Rhodes Ranch is a prime piece of paradise if you seek to avoid the jostling queues and chatter. A number of three to five star hotels lie scattered around the vicinity of McCarran International Airport – itself just three miles from Rhodes Ranch. Essential conveniences such as the Las Vegas Outlet Mall Center and Restaurant Mile are also within two blocks from the airport.

Encompassing 6,909 yards from the back tees, with a slope rating of 122, Rhodes Ranch is more than a handful for the lower handicap. Extending its appeal to those of a less experienced level, the club also offers a generous five tees per shot and layouts suited to every skill-set – the shortest being an affable 5,301 yards, with a 73 slope rating. Publicly accessible on a year-round basis, Rhodes Ranch Golf Club promises a tough, devious start to the day with a myriad of long par-3 shots.

Blessed with a semi-isolated situation within the Spring Valley, the Rhodes Ranch Golf Club is the ideal place for retreating from the rest of the world and immersing yourself in the game. An on-site putting green and immaculately maintained practice range provide ample amenities for seeing out an entire day here. Should the rumbles of hunger strike, check out the palatial clubhouse where the Rhodes Ranch Bar and Restaurant lays on an inexpensive spread for breakfast, brunch and dinner.

Rhodes Ranch Golf Club. (20 Rhodes Ranch Parkway, Las Vegas). (Rating 73.0; Slope 122; Yards 6,909; Fee $70). Well-maintained, with many shifts of elevation, water features, views of the city. Lots of palm trees give a tropical feel. (I-15 south, Exit 34 towards Decatur onto I-215 west. Six miles west to Durango Avenue, heading south 1.2 miles to the gate at Rhodes Ranch. Gate guard will direct the golfer to the course.)