I was able to arrange an invite to play Lahontan during my push to play a special course in CA for my 1K milestone. By the time Olympic was already set up, Lahontan responded and invited me out, so it... Continue »

I was able to arrange an invite to play Lahontan during my push to play a special course in CA for my 1K milestone. By the time Olympic was already set up, Lahontan responded and invited me out, so it was kind of "1000-B" and well worth an extra day side trip up to Truckee. It's lesser known, but widely considered one of the top courses in the state. After playing it, I heartily agree! We had a 1:30 tee time and played with a staffmember as our club host. We enjoyed a nice relaxed pace with nobody behind and only pushing the groups ahead a few time, finishing in about 3:45. The course was in excellent condition. Tee boxes and fairways were fantastic with minimal flaws. The rough was super lush and thick and done in two cuts. Primary cut somewhat low so the ball would sit up nicely, but the grass underneath was still just grabby enough to make you work. Then the next cut was a little deeper and the ball would tend to settle down more. Lots of native deep grass and desert areas around, too, that you obviously want to avoid. Bunkers perfect with sparkly white sand. Greens very firm and very fast. They are actually getting ready to shut down 9 holes in August to start a complete overhaul of the green surfaces, eventually redoing all 18. Poa has invaded the bentgrass over the years. They have kind of speckled look now, but were cut and rolled tight so never a bump and rolling super pure. Still, they want to start fresh with all pure bent again and it'll be a major project. Otherwise, this is an incredible course in an incredible setting. It is a Tom Weiskopf design that has a ton of character, with each hole providing a distinct layout. A ton of great mountain views and just so enjoyable all the way through. Exceptional club facilities and a staff that dotes on you at every turn. Just first class to the max and a wonderful overall experience. After the main round, we went over to play the Par 3 Course, which should not be overlooked if you ever come here. It is spectacular and easily one of the top 5 short courses I've ever played. It is immaculately conditioned just like the big course (despite not getting that much play apparently) and it is equally beautiful with a collection of 9 (technically 10) fun holes also designed by Weiskopf. As much as I loved the special experience of playing Olympic Club (Lake), I'd personally take Lahontan any day of the week. It's that good!