Texas's Bluejack National

YOU MIGHT EXPECT the first American golf course design from a guy as theatrical and celebrated as Tiger Woods to have the visual effect of an ESPN highlight reel. But Bluejack National—in Montgomery, Texas, on the far northwest end of Houston development—conveys subtle maturity, not flashy strobes.

The 91 acres of fairways are more than twice as wide as a standard golf course. The grass down the middle is a tightly mown Zeon Zoysia that lets the ball run. Bunker deployment is sparse—only 49 in all. There are plenty of open entrances to the greens for bouncing approach shots in. The intimate connection of greens to tees means the course remains easily walkable. Overall, the influence of Augusta National is unmistakable. 

The par-72 layout can stretch to 7,552 yards for Woods and his buddies. The bulk of play will take place at saner distances: 6,856 yards down to 5,224, with a dedicated set of junior tees at 3,008 yards. A massive two-sided range with a short-game area provides plenty of practice ground. And for warming up or winding down, there’s a cozy little 10-hole, 714-yard long par-3 course called the Playgrounds.

There are fishing ponds, hiking trails, a “Little Fenway Park” whiffle-ball field, and a 60-yard-long football grid. The land plan calls for 400 homesites to be scattered around the perimeter of the golf course, many of them in neatly designed village clusters. Residences run from 1,200-square-foot suite-style units to estate lots larger than one and a half acres. Guests at Bluejack National have access to 40 cottages and suites, with enough meeting space for executive getaways.

With Exxon bringing its new headquarters and 13,000 jobs nearby, this region at the edge of the sprawling Houston metropolis is poised for a leap. Those who get to Bluejack National will find plenty to make them want to stay.

COURSE: For more information about Bluejack National call (281) 475-2165.

AIRPORTS: Lone Star Executive/Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport (CXO), in Conroe, Texas, is 29 miles to the east and has a 7,501-foot runway. 
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), in Houston, is 50 miles to the southeast and has a 12,002-foot runway. 
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), also in Houston, is 61 miles to the southeast and has a 7,602-foot runway.