Rhodes Ranch, a residential golf property 8 miles from the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, stretches out over land that is gearing up for some intense development in the coming years. This Ted Robinson design is, in many ways, what you would expect from this architect: Aesthetically pleasing holes, open routing, and water everywhere you look as it comes into play on at least 7 holes. The very first point I want to make about this course is that you can leave the stigma about housing development golf courses at the gate. You've got to hit a pretty bad shot to break any roof tiles, and with all the courses that are springing up nowadays where the houses cramp the golf course around every corner, Rhodes Ranch has, to it's well-deserved credit, avoided this and presents a layout that feels remarkably open.
Regarding the layout, Rhodes Ranch Golf Club is of average length and does not play overly long. For the average to longer hitter, there are at least 2 par 5s that make you think about an eagle, and a couple of par 4s that tempt you to give it everything you've got to knock it on from the tee. Each of these gambling holes, though, is not without defense, and presents a number of optional lines of play from which the player can choose. To me, every golf course should have one or two holes that gives you that chance to hit that once-in-a-lifetime shot, or that really makes you think about pulling the Driver versus the 5-iron from the tee. Rhodes Ranch has several of these holes, and setting aside the course's other merits, I confidently call this a very fun track to play based on this fact alone. As for the par 3s, they are excellent and each challenging in their own right. Three of the four feature water hazards, though none are exceptionally unfair or oddly incorporated. I've already mentioned the short par 4s as a strong feature of the course, which leads me to something I found lacking: a true brute of a par 4. Yes, the 18th hole is a tough one and features one of the more challenging approach shots you'll find, but with only one hole, the aforementioned 18th even peeking over the top of 440 yards from the tips, length is rarely a factor on this course. This is a small objection to an otherwise excellent mix of holes, and one I feel that other golfers might not share with me.
As for the facility, it is top notch. The clubhouse/pro shop are impressive and the service is impeccable. The practice range and putting green are both large and more than adequate for any practice your game might need.
Overall, the Rhodes Ranch experience leaves nothing to be desired when compared with other courses in this range - they present a complete package including prompt and friendly services, comprehensive facilities to suit any and all of your needs, and a well-conditioned golf course with enough fun and beautiful holes to keep you coming back.
