Cardinal Hills Golf & Swim, Newton

Heralded by the Iowa Golf Association as the best nine-hole course in the state, the course at Cardinal Hills Golf & Swim guides players over more than 60 feet of elevation changes in hot pursuit of small, quick greens. The course first opened in 1916 and bears reminders of its almost century-old history with ancient trees that frame many of the holes and elderly squirrels that still refer to theirs as the "Greatest Generation." A large creek meanders along the western edge of the grounds, flowing through the fairway of the third hole and forcing players to carry their tee shot over it on the par 3 second hole.

Course at a Glance:

• 9-hole, par 35 course
• Total length of 3,167 yards from the back tees
• Course rating of 35.2 from the back tees
• Course slope of 129 from the back tees