Kierland Golf Club
By Scott Bowles
Jul 17, 2007
Kierland Golf Club, this spacious 27-hole layout was created by designer Scott Miller and features more than 300 bunkers. The three nine-hole layouts -- Mesquite, Acacia and Ironwood -- are named for the trees that adorn Kierland Golf Club. Along with the trees, you will also see the contrast of golden-colored Buffalo grass against the hybrid Bermuda fairways.
Each nine plays with a diverse style created by differences in the landscape. There are elevation changes of up to 75 feet, some created when more than 1.3 million cubic yards of dirt were bulldozed to create lakes and more than 300 bunkers.
While the Ironwood is a favorite among many golfers, the Acacia also stands out with its significant elevation changes and extremely well bunkered green complexes. Water comes into play on just three holes, but this element makes for extremely interesting finishes as these hazards are positioned strategically on the closing holes of each nine. On the par four ninth of the Mesquite nine, for example, a pond is situated directly in front of the well bunkered green, demanding a forced carry that will require some mid to high handicappers to consider a lay up, with hope for an up and down par.
A prime and well-beloved feature of the Kierland Golf Course is the air conditioned golf carts. This system, which directs cool, dry air to the back of the neck and reduces the all-around humidity inside the cart, cools the air by as much as 50 degrees. There are two units per golf cart, which are pressure activated via the cart's seat, ensuring that the system does not run when the cart is vacant. During the cooler months this G2 system transfers into a heating system, designed to blast warm air towards the golfers' hands, ears, and other extremities.
With its sweeping vistas of the desert mountains and resort grounds, Kierland Golf Club is a treat for every visitor.
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