  |
|
|
Did you know that eating an apple is the equivalent of drinking one cup of coffee! It has the same effect of the caffeine and you also get your fiber. So when you have the opportunity to play Apple Mountain Golf Resort, but skipped breakfast, don’t worry, the first and tenth tees have containers of apples available for the taking. Then you can kill two birds with one stone: Tee off, and get your breakfast at the same time! That’s just one of the unique features that this wonderful course provides the player along with the flagsticks and tee markers. Located off Highway 50 just east of the historic town of Placerville, Apple Mountain requires a little bit of a drive, but is well worth the effort and gas. Algie Pulley designed Apple Mountain along with The Chardonnay Course in Napa. He didn’t move a lot of dirt. Algie simply cut down trees and put in the course. Apple Mountain was originally a family farm which fell into bankruptcy. It was then purchased by Mr. Chris Steele who also owns Teal Bend, Turkey Creek, Empire Ranch, and Coyote Moon. Chris also purchased Twelve Bridges recently and changed the name to “Catta Verdera’ which is Bosque-Portuguese slang for “Magical Green Place.”
Mr. Paul Shorts has been the General Manager and Head Professional for two years moving over from Twelve Bridges in May 2006. Paul has been playing golf a relatively short time but don't let that fool you; he is an accomplished player. Paul graduated from California State University Stanislaus and played on the Volley Ball Team. He took up Golf his senior year and was immediately hooked! I had the opportunity to sit down with this nice young man after my round. Paul is pleasant, outgoing, and very professional. An outstanding addition to the Apple Mountain Resort staff! Paul loves to play the course late in the afternoon when the wildlife comes out. “Bears have been spotted as well as bobcats chasing turkeys,” added Paul. “The trick to Apple Mountain is shot making. Miss it in the wrong place and you are in trouble,” advised Paul. The resort plays 6202 yards from the blue tees with a rating of 69.7 and a slope of 138. White and Gold tees are also available. The par is 70! Apple Mountain features six par threes. These little beauties provide for long irons, and the challenge of short finesses shots. Bogey is awaiting the faint of heart. You must hit the green! Up and down for par is a real accomplishment. My favorite is the 132 yard second hole. The elevation change from the tee down to the undulating green makes club selection vital. The green slopes from right to left and a three putt is a distinct possibility. Par is a wonderful score. Of course you have to negotiate the natural terrain between the tee and green, so don't be short. The dreaded double bogey could mar your score card early. |
My two favorite holes are the majestic par fives that finish the front nine and back nine. Standing on the tee of both these master pieces is an experience in itself. If not focused you may forget you are playing golf. Number nine plays 552 yards from an elevated tee. It is a dog leg left and the tee shot seems to fly forever to the emerald green fairway below. The fast, sloping green can be hit in two. Birdie is a wonderful score. Par is just as satisfying.
The eighteenth is one of the most outstanding finishing holes in Northern California. It stretches 495 yards from an elevated tee to the wide fairway below. This is another hole that just grabs your attention because of its outstanding beauty. The hole looks like a painting and I’m surprised an artist hasn’t completed a rendition! The tee shot sets up the second shot which can be the greenie. The only problem is flying the nature area located to the front of the green. Then you have to stop the ball on a green which runs front to back and is very quick! Birdie or par is a great way to finish the day!
The restaurant greets you at the end of your round with your favorite beverage or breakfast and lunch. El Dorado County native wines are also on the menu. It is available for tournaments, weddings and features a large dining area. The practice facilities are well maintained and patrolled by teaching professional Al Weinhold. The pro shop rotates brand names such has Muzuno, Ping and Titleist. Clothing is also available for the well dressed player. Annual Memberships and Range Passes are available. Daily fees – Summer, runs $49.00 Monday-Thursday, $59.00 on Fridays and $69.00 Saturdays and Sundays. All rates include carts and are subject to change. The driving range is closed every Wednesday at noon. As you can probably tell I just love this course. I whole-heartedly agree with course Superintendent Dean Eden, who refers to Apple Mountain resort as the “Garden of Eden.” So at your first opportunity “Come to the mountain” and play Apple Mountain Golf Resort! For more information call the golf shop at (530) 647-7400 or visit them on the web: www.applemountaingolfresort.com. Apple Mountain Golf Resort
By Kevin Scott |
