L.B. Houston Park Golf Course

L.B. Houston is a crusty old Dallas municipal that hosts upwards of 80,000 rounds per year. It’s located in the floodplains of the Elm fork of the Trinity River just west of I-35 between Northwest Hwy. and Hwy. 635.

This municipal course has water hazards coming into play on the front nine, and many trees that can alter your shots on the back nine. In the process of building this course, Leon Howard had 300,000-plus yards of dirt moved, creating 11 lakes and ponds, and used the fill to elevate the greens and tees. Dave Bennett redesigned this course in 1982.

All four par 3s require a carry over water. The course plays to a strong finish with the 545-yard, par 5 17th hole and the 436-yard No. 18. No. 17 intimidates the average hacker when playing into the prevailing south wind. The hole narrows significantly to about 250 yards from the back tees, with the extremely small landing area framed by two huge trees and lies just in front of a creek that crosses the fairway. If the tee shot isn’t perfect, you have no angle for a solid second shot.

The well-stocked pro shop and locker room facilities are nice amenities--ones you usually don't see at municipal courses. A nice-sized putting green helps pass the time while waiting to tee off. This is an easy walking course for those looking for some exercise--the wooded terrain makes you forget you're smack in the middle of Dallas.

Getting there : From I-35 south, take Hwy 635 west and exit Luna Rd. Drive south and the club is on the right.