Iowa
Top Choice: Bent Tree, Council Bluffs
8.9/10
Why it's Spectacular
Designed By: Jeffrey Brauer
We never really imagined ourselves in Iowa, let alone for golf, but in actuality Bent Tree was a really pleasant surprise. As you arrive you can tell immediately that the links-style course is well maintained and that the winding holes through thick fescue will provide plenty of challenge. From the first hole-on you are forced to play target golf and as you wind up and down a series of elevated holes accuracy remains a requirement. The greens rolled very smoothly and you can easily forget that you are in one of the flattest US states given the series of up-and-downs.
There are several interesting holes where you must navigate water on both sides and while the front plays a bit more interestingly than the back both demand your attention and respect.
Overall, we walked away feeling like we got great value and if you ever find yourself in Iowa without much to do, this is a solid place to spend an afternoon!