Maryland National

The Catoctin Mountain Range provides a home for numerous acclaimed public golf courses in central Maryland, one of which is Maryland National Golf Club, where architect Arthur Hills aims to live up to the course’s name.

Although the views afforded by the scenic location do much of the legwork on that front, Hills utilizes the ups-and-downs of the property to create challenge for players. Although a maximum distance just over 6,800 yards doesn’t sound too bad for scratch players, especially when considering the frequent downhill nature of a mountain course, one of the tactics is providing opportunities for short distances to lure long hitters into trouble.

No. 16 is just one such example, with a 335-yard tee shot heading dramatically downhill, to a right-to-left fairway that is traced along the left by a stream. Even those who avoid the water when hitting driver will find a difficult lie from the right side if they’re not able to shape the shot.

The clubhouse is placed at the highest point of the property, so you can survey the course below you and reflect on the day’s triumphs following a round.