Old Greenwood, just outside of Truckee on the way to Reno, bills itself as “The Finest Golf in Tahoe” and, after having played there, I’d be hard-pressed to argue the point. As a Jack Nicklaus Signature Designed Course, it’s clear that Old Greenwood was given plenty of attention by the Golden Bear himself. Perfectly sculpted greens, beautifully manicured fairways and challenging bunkers are just a few of the highlights awaiting you at this magnificent course.
Old Greenwood
18 Holes | Par 72
Yardage | 5,419 to 7,518
Rating | 72.7
Slope | 134
Old Greenwood Hole #17 | Courtesy Tahoe Mountain Club
I am not particularly accustomed to luxury, and Travis in the clubhouse made me feel right at home. The course feels like something straight from the PGA tour, but the atmosphere is relaxed and accommodating. After getting me set up with a cart, map and other amenities, we were off to the races.
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“Perfectly sculpted greens, beautifully manicured fairways and challenging bunkers are just a few of the highlights awaiting you at this magnificent course.”
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I met up with the rest of my group at the first tee and shook hands all around. The first hole seems fairly straightforward at first glance, but you know what they say: looks can be deceiving. The narrow fairways give way to sagebrush on either side that make for challenging lies, unless of course you happen to hit dead center every shot. If that’s the case, feel free to send some tips my way.
Old Greenwood was rated as one of America’s Top 100 Public Courses by Golf Digest and it’s easy to see why. If you can take your eyes off the beautifully designed fairways for a moment to look up, you might happen to notice beautiful mountain ranges, towering pine trees and all manner of stunning natural beauty. As a bonus, Old Greenwood is rated as an Audubon International Gold Certified Sanctuary. While that probably won’t affect your score at the end of the day, it’s nice to play somewhere that has a strong commitment to maintaining a strong, healthy environment.
One of the highlights had to be the par-5 sixth hole. Just when I thought my game was starting to come together, Jack threw this little number at us. A tight lie down the middle is paired with a massive water feature, placed exactly where you’d want to hit your drive. If your drive somehow lands perfectly, the challenge is far from over. The green is tucked uphill between bunkers and, you guessed it, more water. Despite not playing the hole in stellar fashion, it was impossible to do anything but smile at the challenge and design.
After your round, if you find yourself in need of a lesson or two, book one at The Golf Academy. As a Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher, Keith Lyford has what it takes to elevate your game, no matter your starting point. After my immensely enjoyable, but humbling experience, at Old Greenwood, I just might have to call him up.
Whether you’re in town for a bachelor party, as my cart-mate, Greg was or you live in the area, do yourself a favor and pay Old Greenwood a visit. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
For more information or to book a tee time, visit golfintahoe.com or call (866) 597-8337.
