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Black Jack’s Crossing has been voted one of the top seven new courses in the World in 2012. The Lanny Wadkins design according to Golfweek’s Brad Klein, was one of the layouts that made a difference in Golf Course Architecture in 2012.
Carved out of the desert directly above the historical spot where U.S. Army General ‘Black Jack’ Pershing would repeatedly cross the Rio Grande in pursuit of Pancho Villa during the early 1900s, Lajitas’ stunningly unique Black Jack’s Crossing golf course is indeed a BIG course worthy of the Big Bend. Set against a rugged backdrop with seven breathtaking mountain holes and one spectacular desert vista after another, the layout is very memorable and truly a work of art.
“There’s no golf course like this anywhere else in Texas,” proudly proclaims Black Jack’s designer, World Golf Hall of Famer, Lanny Watkins. “Some of those panoramic tee shots out there; you just go ‘HOLY …..’” But with several dramatic drops in elevation from the teeing areas and Lanny’s favorable “old school” philosophy of designing manageable 3-pars, Black Jack Crossing’s 7,081 yards is comfortably traversed.
Recently referred to as the “Best Golf resort in Texas” it is creatively routed through the Chisos Mountains with abandoned mining cabins and wandering wild game in the background, Black Jack’s Crossing will constantly challenge you to focus on the greenery not the historic scenery. Refreshingly, Watkins’ use of bunkering is minimal, for direction and framing purposes only, but his subtle yet multi-level green complexes will demand your full attention. Very fair, just think a bit before you “pull the trigger!’
Black Jack’s Crossing as well as the entire Lajitas Resort are operated by Orlando based Meadowbrook Golf according to Vice President of Operations Scott Beasley. Meadowbrook Golf and its subsidiary International Golf Maintenance have been overseeing the final touches of the course construction for the past two years and took over the entire resort operations on February 1, 2012.
Beyond the stunning golf, there is plenty of adventure to be experienced at Lajitas. From heart pumping and adrenaline rushing Jeep, ATV, and mountain biking tours amongst ancient geological rock formations, to serene floating river trips down the Rio Grande, wild flower hikes, and interpretive fossil explorations through a land once roamed by dinosaurs.
Additionally, equestrian, shooting, and hunting activities are available as part of the Big Bend experience. With decades of experience, the guides will custom design trail rides on horse back, shotgun experiences at their scenic five-stand range, cattle drives, or even the excitement of a cowboy action shoot. In the abandoned streets of a long forgotten ghost town you’ll get a chance to handle a single action Colt 45, a hand gun which was instrumental in how the American West was won!
Created as a destination for a variety of unique and unforgettable events, Lajitas incorporates exceptional meeting space for corporate and group retreats, incentive trips, and family celebrations. And after a joyfully long, adventurous day of golf, riding, shooting, exploring, rafting, hiking, or just meeting in the desert, Lajitas’ designated “watering hole,” the Thirsty Goat Saloon, is a popular hitching post for guests. Named after Lajitas’ dually elected mayor, a beer-drinking goat name Clay Henry III, the “Goat” is the venue of choice for the colorful and entertaining evening Texas Hold ‘Em Poker tournaments.