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NK'MIP CANyoN
Desert Golf Course
PAR 5 602 yARDS
oliver, BC
250.498.2880
www.nkmipcanyon.com
The natural beauty and dramatic landscapes of the northern tip
of the Sonoran Desert are on full display from the tee boxes of
the 15th hole at Nk'Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course. The massive
McIntyre Bluff dominates the horizon, the Okanagan Range of
the Cascade Mountains forms a silhouette in the distance, and
the countless varieties of indigenous flora—including cacti,
sage, "greasewood" pines, golden aster, and antelope brush—
trace both sides of the lush green fairway.
Named "The chief" for its commanding presence, and the
outline of an Indian chief's face and headdress on the upper
right edge of the bluff, the 15th is a classic three-shot par 5 from
the elevated black tees (602 yards), the blues (562 yards), the
whites (518 yards), and the reds (492 yards). The landing area
is generous, but the fairway gradually narrows as it rises gently
toward the green.
There are no bunkers on this robust par 5. The natural vegetation,
gentle slope, and arresting views are enough to earn the 15th the
rank of second-most difficult hole on the canyon and grove nines
that make up the fine golf course.
Nk'Mip is owned, built, and operated by the Osoyoos Indian
Band. Wines from the Band's Nk'Mip Cellars—the only wholly
owned Native Indian winery in North America—are proudly
served in the beautiful clubhouse. A fine vintage from the cellars
is a fitting reward for par, or better, at The Chief.
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Photograph by Steve Austin
