Ross Creek Landing, Clifton, TN

I've played courses throughout the U.S. Probably over 200. This is my favorite, for sure. Each hole has its own personality. Some make you feel you are playing a links/seaside course, others feel like a woods course.

The four sets of tees make the course playable for golfers of all abilities. My index is 5.2 and I rotate between the white and blue (not the tips) to give different looks to the holes.

The first seven holes are relatively simple (though you can certainly get in trouble on each one!), but the next 11 are as challenging as I have ever played. 8-10 could be labeled the course’s “Amen Corner” and 15-18 (the “Final Four”) are exceptional finishing holes.

The scenery is magnificent as the course blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The staff has always been helpful and friendly, the practice area is topnotch, and the course is quite well maintained. After a dozen rounds, I don’t think I have ever gotten a bad fairway lie.

In short, if you love golf this is a don’t-miss-it course. Yes, it’s out of the way, but worth the trip. If you are considering a golf outing with friends, the course has lodging. Plus the Bear Inn (not associated with the course) is conveniently located and also a great place to stay.

Beautiful course with a challenge on every hole. It is indeed in the middle of nowhere and an hour and half trip for me, but well worth the drive.