Soldier Hollow (Gold)

Soldier Hollow, part of Wasatch Mountain State Park on the outskirts of Salt Lake City, hosted competition during the 2002 Winter Olympics. Commemorating the park’s role in the games, the two municipal golf courses at the facility were named “Gold” and “Silver.” Both were designed by Gene Bates and, as the color convention suggests, the Gold Course is the championship layout.

It is longer and features thinner fairways than its compatriot, but much of the challenge lies in the terrain across which the course is routed. While the Silver sits on flatter land, Gold runs along the higher altitudes of the park. This offers incredible views down into the Heber Valley, but it also offers a test for accuracy and distance control; a misjudgment for either can result in a ball rolling all the way down to other holes, or to the driving range.

The distance is no joke — more than 7,700 yards from the Olympian tees — but one will get some help from the lighter air at this altitude. Be careful with your tee shots and, also, with your golf cart: Some of these cart paths can be as intimidating as the fairways!