Circling Raven Golf Course, Worley, Idaho - Regarded as the Best Tribal Golf Course in America

When the Cour d'Alene Indian Tribe in Northern Idaho was ready to expand its casino and hotel complex by adding a golf course, the tribe brought in six golf-course architects to make their pitch. They chose the one whose proposal took the most difficult route through the available land - the part protected by wetlands and a railroad track.

The result is Circling Raven Golf Course, designed by Gene Bates and opened in 2003. At 420 acres and more than eight miles of cart path, Circling Raven is a display of rolling meadows, stately pine trees and wide-open northwestern vistas. It also routes through and around wetlands, and even passes through a tunnel beneath the Burlington Railroad track in order to connect to the rest of the course.

The 18-hole, par-72 course plays to 7,189 yards from the longest tees, with a USGA rating of 74.5 and a slope rating of 140. As the eight miles of cart path attest, Circling Raven is a big course that calls for hitting driver on most of the par-4s and par-5s. Even the par-3 No. 13, which plays to 253 yards from the longest tees, may require a driver off the tee to carry the wetlands.

The signature hole for the course is the par-4 No. 8. Like most of the course, the hole has a secluded feeling. At 386 yards, it's a relatively short par-4, framed by pines trees and requiring a forced carry over the native grasses to find a fairway that slopes to the right.

Another noteworthy hole is the par-5 No. 12, which is rated the most difficult on the back nine. A scenic, albeit challenging brute, the hole requires a drive of up to 275-300 yards to reach the fairway off the tee. The hole works left, then right, then back left again as it winds through clusters of pine trees and clover-shaped bunkers.

Since its opening, Circling Raven has received a number of honors and accolades. In 2008, GOLF Magazine ranked it No. 93 on its list of "Top 100 Courses You Can Play,'' as well one of the "Top 10 Best New'' golf courses. Golfweek Magazine rated it the "Number 11 Best Casino Course'' in America in 2008. And the course is also generally regarded as the best tribal golf course in America.

The course also boasts some unique practice facilities, including a range just for wedges hit to various practice greens. The 25-acre practice facility also offers a full driving range, as well as chipping and putting greens. Lessons are also available.

The Circling Raven Golf Club also boasts a pro shop that features the latest golf equipment and apparel, as well as specialty items - such as jewelry, dinnerware, glassware, frames, and tribal art - typically not found in such venues. The PGA has nominated Circling Raven Golf Club as "Pacific Northwest PGA Resort Merchandiser of the Year'' several times.

The Cour d'Alene Hotel features 202 rooms, as well as two restaurants, a lounge with live entertainment, and the casino. The casino has more than 1,600 video gaming machines, offers off-track betting, and also schedules events such as professional boxing and concerts in its ballroom. The resort also has an indoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi.