Baltusrol (Upper)

Carved into a small mountain, the first six holes provide a master class in side-slope architecture. The course possesses great variety, from the par-3 3rd, high along the side slope, to the par-5 11th, which some contend is the best par-5 on the property, to the par-4 14th that plays uphill across rolling topography. Better yet is its home hole, a wonderful par-4 that finishes at the base of the historic clubhouse where all eyes are upon you (at least that is the unnerving sensation!). This design stirs passion even more so than its fabled sibling. Slated for a Hanse restoration in a few years, there is no telling how high the Upper might climb. (Getty Images)