Now that the warm weather has settled in on Northern California, there is no time like the present to grab your golf clubs and head out to the course. Placer County has an abundant number of golf courses to indulge the occasional weekend golf warrior or a seasoned professional. Even though the temperature might dip and you’re likely to get a few raindrops on your hat, nothing beats an escape from everyday life like a round on the links. Follow us on a tour through a few of Roseville and Granite Bay’s golfing experiences; you’re sure to find one that suits you best.
Just up the road in Auburn, The Ridge Golf Club is one that you should put on your “to play” list. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., it is laden with risk-reward opportunities that test the skills of the novice and challenge the most seasoned golfers. Featuring four sets of tees, The Ridge is characterized by its challenging greens and rolling fairways. Framed by strategically placed trees and rambling creeks, most greens are enhanced by large, natural land forms and rock outcroppings that expand the array of shots needed to successfully navigate the course. Once the home of the LPGA Longs Drug Challenge, the course has a beautiful design that will surly bring you back time and again.
If you’re ready for a challenge from tee to green, then Whitney Oaks Golf Club is a must. This 18-hole, Johnny Miller designed golf course is 6,800 yards that is well guarded with wetlands, water and well placed bunkers on every hole. Though the design is very challenging with undulated greens and large granite boulders naturally placed within the fairways, golfers will definitely appreciate the beautiful views and local wildlife. Since the renovations have been underway, the course contains more risk/reward opportunities and some strategic maneuvers that aren't apparent the first time you play. To keep up with the enjoyment factor of playing the game, a suggestion would be to play from a tee box that would normally be a shorter overall distance than you would typically choose. Once you feel more comfortable with the layout, rolling fairways and copious hazards, you can challenge yourself further by moving back a box, but bring a few more golf balls.
Granite Bay Golf Club, a private golf club in the area, is one of only 18 Audubon Signature Sanctuary courses. It is a Robert Trent Jones Jr. design nestled just off the western shore of Folsom Lake. This beautifully designed course meanders through heavily wooded areas and boasts a truly classic design. With the rolling fairways and greens, this is golf at its best. Though the course is private, there are certain Mondays, especially in the winter months, that are open to the public. Call the golf shop for Monday tee time availability. Should you want to become a member, the club offers a wide variety of events throughout the year, both golf and social alike. With the beautiful golf course and magnificent clubhouse, it is definitely a win-win.
