Let’s take a little trip down Hwy 2 to Crossfield, then head west about a seven iron, to the village of Madden.

Just off the northwest corner of the village lies the Beaver Dam Golf Course, one damn fine layout.

This is a links style 18-hole track nestled smartly in the coulee landscape.

A creek carves its way in and around 13 of the 18 holes, offering a true test for golfers of all abilities.

Beaver Dam plays over 6,000 yards from the black tees down to 5,840 yards from the whites and 5,170 yards from the reds.

In some cases tee shots have to carry over a bunch of rough stuff, I don’t know the scientific name of it, but it eats golf balls.

The sixth hole is their signature hole, a par 4 at 346 yards playing from the whites, a difficult tee shot and an exacting second shot gives you a chance at par.

My favourite hole is the par 3, 141-yard, number 12, playing from an elevated tee box, 120 feet above the island green.

It’s hard to judge the distance, hit the green or bye-bye Titleist. When I visited last weekend a monsoon hit, so just chatted with Pat O’Reilly to get the skinny on the course.

Being Irish, his storytelling did his heritage proud.

He also mentioned this was Beaver Dam’s 20th anniversary and a few special promos are planned.

Driving from Red Deer, the money for the extra gas is more than made up for in the inexpensive green fees.

Check out Beaver Dam Golf Course, you will be pleasantly surprised.

Green Fees: Monday to Thursday $26 for 9 holes. $37 for 18.

Weekends and holidays: $33 for 9. $49 for 18.

Power Carts: $20 for 9 and $30 for 18.

Twilight fees: $30 starting at 4:30 p.m. Deli and Pro Shop. Tournament bookings available. Web site www.beaverdamgolf.ca

Book your tee times seven days in advance at 403-946-5200.