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Ever since it opened in 2002, this 18-hole public course in the northern suburbs of Los Angeles has been hailed as one of America's top golfing bargains, and not just because the green fees fall comfortably in the double-digit range. Lead designer Gil Hanse, an American devotee of traditional British course design, managed to transform a slice of California desert into an inviting round of 18 holes that compares favorably with the great seaside links courses of Scotland.

Hanse and his team made minimal changes to the existing landscape, adding no artificial water hazards or tree plantings, and cleverly following the contours of the canyon from a relatively flat front nine to a moderately sloped back nine for a total of 6,906 yards from the back tees. Look for wide, undulating fairways on most holes, and spacious but deceptively tricky greens surrounded by close-cropped, puttable aprons. The course is forgiving enough to keep high-handicap golfers in play, yet subtle enough to keep more accomplished players on their toes. Accurate drives can't hurt, but from start to finish, Rustic Canyon relentlessly puts your ground game to the test.

This popular course is very much in demand and Rustic Canyon accepts reservations no more than seven days in advance. Your best bet to score a tee time is to call exactly seven days ahead when the booking office opens at 6 am (PT) sharp: 805-530-0221. See www.rusticcanyongolfcourse.com for driving directions and other details.

Note: Due to storm damage in January 2005, a portion of Rustic Canyon's front nine has been closed for repairs. During this time, 15 holes are in play at reduced rates. Repairs are expected to be complete by July 2005.