Ridgecrest Golf Course, Nampa, Idaho - A Links-Style Golf Course with Vast Areas of Water and Down-Home Idaho Warmth

Ridgecrest Golf Course is an 18-hole championship course designed by John Harbottle that opened in 1996. Set amid Idaho's rolling corn fields, with views of the rugged Owhyee Mountains and the Boise Range visible, Ridgecrest is a Bermuda-grass, links-style course with vast areas of water to add to the challenge. The course, which was given a 4-Star rating by Golf Digest magazine, has been described as having an "authentic Idaho feel,'' combining stunning views with the down-home warmth of Idaho farm country.

Seven of its 18 holes are considered "water holes,'' while four waste bunkers and 30 traditional bunkers - some of them massive and running the length of the fairway on many holes - are sprinkled throughout the course. There's also a ridge that divides the 18 holes and adds to the setting and the challenge. The course plays to 6,836 at its longest, with a USGA course rating of 72 and a slope rating of 125.

One of the more noteworthy holes is No. 12, a par-3 that plays to 227 yards at its longest. The hole features a drop of 200 feet from the tee to a green guarded by bunkers on the front and water on the right.

Another noteworthy hole is No. 17, a par-4 that plays to 417 yards from the back tees. This is the #1-handicap hole on the course, and requires a long, straight drive into the fairway, followed by an accurate approach shot up a large hill to reach the narrow green at the summit. Adding to the challenge are the two bunkers that guard the front and back of the green.

In general, the back nine, including holes 13 through 16, are considered some of the most interesting and challenging as water comes into play on each of those holes. Hole No. 15 is an interesting par-4, playing to only 261 yards from the back tees - definitely reachable in one, but requiring a forced carry over a pond to do so.

Practice facilities include a driving range, a putting-chipping area and practice bunker. The club also features a nine-hole, par-32 Executive Course that can stretch to almost 2,400. Lessons are also available, and the club features a Pro Shop with club rental available.

Ridgecrest Golf Club also boasts a large clubhouse with locker rooms, snack bar, cocktails, restaurant and banquet facilities.