City: Pigeon Forge, TN

Category: Golf

Telephone: (865) 453-3912, (800) 231-4128

Address: 520 Dollywood Lane

Description: The Gatlinburg Golf Course is the oldest and most mountainous of the bunch. It was established in 1955 in Pigeon Forge—because that’s where the land was available. This course recently underwent a much-anticipated $2 million renovation, including both the clubhouse and the course itself, which was designed by noted golf course architect William Langford. To get there, turn off the Parkway at traffic light #8 (the Dollywood light) in Pigeon Forge. You’ll see the course on the right long before you get to the clubhouse driveway. Gatlinburg is the only course of the four in the area that’s landlocked, and the only water at all is two artificial lakes that play with your head on the 18th hole. The layout is about 6,300 yards and par 71 from the longest tees, and 4,710 yards and par 72 from the ladies’ tees. It’s like playing two completely different courses. The front nine is reasonably level and sandy, with three long par 5s. Fairways are broad, and most of them run downhill to the greens. Indian guides are no longer required on the back nine, but you may feel the urge to yodel from time to time. The 12th hole, aptly named “Sky Hi,” is internationally known for its 200-foot drop from tee to green, making the 195-yard length look like a green-side chip shot. Play it long—there’s nothing between the tee and the green but deep wilderness and the occasional cloud. There are very few sidehill lies on the back nine; most of the fairways look like canyons. Gatlinburg is a lot of fun to play if you really enjoy variety. Just over 50 years old, the course lets its natural growth provide most of the challenge and scenery. Carts are required on this course, and you’ll appreciate that fact after a round. From June through October, greens fees for 18 holes are $60 before noon, $50 from noon to 4 p.m., and $40 after 4 p.m. The rest of the year, fees range from $45 to $55. If you want to golf for just nine holes, the fee is $30 any time of the year. All prices include cart and tax, and you can now reserve your tee-time online. A hundred memberships are available at $1,200 a year for a family.