Highland Oaks (Highlands & Magnolia)

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail now features more than 11 facilities, but among the first was Highland Oaks, a 36-hole complex that offers relatively simple golf travel for those driving in from Montgomery or Tallahassee, Florida. Combining the Highlands and the Magnolia courses is most golfers’ preference.

The Highlands nine may be at a higher elevation, however several water hazards will be the most eye-catching hazards. Both par threes are somewhat peninsular in nature, with the putting surfaces extending left or right, respectively, out into the lake.

The Magnolia course has a more literal name than its correspondent in this exercise, with the title tree dotting this area. Although the water will certainly be less across this nine, the travel between the second and third holes is grand, with players driving across more than 1,000 feet of marshland to reach the No. 3 tee. This is about where players will arrive at the most hilly part of the property as well, and many good tee shots will still find awkward lies upon approach.

Highland Oaks also features a third “championship” nine, the Marshwood, as well as a short course.