The Bear Trace at Tims Ford

Like the other four Bear Trace courses designed by Jack Nicklaus for Tennessee State Parks, the layout at Tims Ford benefits from a wonderfully natural setting. Situated on a peninsula surrounded by picturesque Tims Ford Lake, roads and housing play no part in proceedings here. Much in evidence is the quality of the course and its conditioning, as well as many wonderfully scenic views onto the lake. The opening holes have a predominantly open, links-style character, gently rolling across former pasture land. These early stretches gradually transition to incorporate wooded, tree-lined holes where giant oak trees dominate. The back-nine, also pleasantly undulating and a mix of open and tree-lined holes, lays down an arguably stronger test. It culminates in the long par-4 18th that features traditional Nicklaus bunkering and, on the rightside, the shoreline of the surrounding lake. The expansive Tims Ford reservoir is visible from most holes, either through the trees or from the course's higher elevations; rarely however is it directly in play. With generous width fairways, not overly penal rough and a relative absence of threatening water hazards, this is not perhaps one of Jack Nicklaus's sternest tests. However, the many partially "concealed" fairway bunkers, deeper greenside bunkering and generally smallish putting surfaces, call for good-quality shot-making if you are to score well. This well-rated and always popular golf course contains many attractive features, scenic lake views and several excellent holes to enjoy. It is also home to several families of deer.