By the time they’ve reached the 125-foot elevated green of the 2nd hole at DragonRidge Country Club, players will begin to understand why the course has a bit of a reputation. Though the Jay Morrish and David Druzisky-designed course might be named after a nearby mountainside that resembles the scaly back of a dragon, there’s no denying that the 18-hole, par-72 layout is a bit of a beast itself. Carved out of rocky desert landscape through rugged hills and valley, DragonRidge is full of elevation changes and beautiful scenery. And though it’s considered one of the most challenging courses in Las Vegas, that shouldn’t scare anyone away – DragonRidge is tricky, but fair to players of all skill levels with four tees.
Henderson’s DragonRidge truly excels at incorporating the natural desert surroundings and using it to take players on one wild and varied ride. Aside from breathtaking views that can be found on holes such as the par-3 2nd, the course feature natural canyons, preserved rock formations, and sweeping elevation changes amid its wide fairways and spacious greens. The course starts at the bottom of the rugged highlands and rolls deep into the McCullough mountain range, creating a course that is somewhat traditional in its front nine and dramatic on the back. Strategically placed bunkers add to the challenge, requiring accurate and thoughtful plays – in fact, the course strongly advises players to begin thinking about their shot while other players take their turn.
One intimidating hole is the signature par-4 7th, which extends a formidable 441 yards. A dogleg right, its fairway is bordered by a creek that winds alongside the hole and collects behind the green, which is protected on its front end by sand. On the back nine, players will encounter more challenging holes bordered by lava rock along with several split fairways. One of them is the 12th hole, a 570 yard par-5 with a desert wash running across its fairway and a bunker-guarded green.
A private course, DragonRidge is open to members only, though visitors can experience it through a Stay and Play package from a participating Vegas hotel. Those who do attempt to tame the beast will be facing grounds favored by the one and only Tiger Woods, who hosted Tiger Jam III and IV on the course in 2001 and 2002. DragonRidge also offers a full-service practice facility that includes a driving range, putting green, and short game area.
