Heavenly Gondola

Ponderosa Golf Course is a quintessential Truckee story. The 9-hole public course was originally constructed in 1961 by the residents of the town. The course was family owned for most of that half-century but was kept from being turned into a subdivision when the Truckee Airport District purchased it in 2008. Now Ponderosa is managed by Truckee-Donner Recreation and Park District with the intention of welcoming duffers for years to come. Ponderosa is aptly named because it winds through tall ponderosa pines and other majestic evergreens natural to the Sierra. With its wide fairways and sloped greens, the course suits putters. There are chipping and practice greens, five tee driving nets, a pro shop and a snack bar. With its management by the Recreation and Park District, Ponderosa offers a robust selection of clinics geared toward kids as young as 6. The course usually closes in mid-October for the winter season.