City: Albuquerque, NM

Category: Golf

Address: 30 Rainbow Road NE

Description: Developed by Sandia Pueblo and part of the Sandia Resort and Casino but open to nonresidents, too, this 18-hole par-72 championship golf course was designed by Scott Miller. The course unfurls expansively under Sandia Peak on sloping terrain across the changing elevations and natural folds of the landscape. Yardage is from 5,113 to a mighty 7,772 yards on the back tees. Twelve holes play toward the peak for excellent views, and there are also panoramic vistas across the valley. The course offers generous fairways and forgiving greens, although there are plenty of strategic challenges in holes guarded by water features, bunkers, and arroyos. However, obstacles are sometimes deceptively intimidating, testing you to keep your cool to ensure a safe landing. Hole 5 is the longest on the course, a challenging 662 yards over rugged terrain. There is a double-tier driving range, a 10,000-square-foot practice putting green, and a chipping green with bunker. On opening in 2005 the course was quickly recognized as a best new development by Golf Inc. and Golf Magazine and has continued to rank highly in golfing media. Golf carts are available (and recommended, although walking is permitted), and fees include range balls and GPS. Nonmetal spiked shoes must be worn on the course, and the dress code includes collared shirts. Golf instruction is available. The 16,000-square-foot circular Pueblo-style clubhouse includes a pro golf shop, which Golf World ranked in its 100 Best Golf Shops in 2009. The family-friendly clubhouse restaurant is a great place for cocktails and dinner, with a 3,000-square-foot covered patio that is refreshing in more ways than one, as it looks north over the Sandias and the stunning fountains and waterfalls of the 18th hole. Reservations for resort guests are taken up to 180 days in advance; otherwise, seven days in advance. Reservations are taken outside the above timings for a small ($10) nonrefundable booking fee. Longer advance bookings are available for group events of 17 players or more—contact the club. Open year-round. Take I-25 to the Tramway exit 234, and head east to the clearly signed resort.