When Allentown native Jason Lenhart started his golf career at Sky Top in the Poconos, little did he know he’d be back in the area two decades later working at a layout located higher than some ski slopes. But as general manager at Jack Frost National Golf Club, that’s the case.

The course sits above the Jack Frost ski area—the 10th tee, at 2,024 feet, is the highest point—and architect Terry LaGree took full advantage of the unique piece of mountain property.

“What sets us apart is the way the course flows,” says Lenhart. “It’s a newer, more modern design, and you’re not distracted by other holes from the one you are on. I really think the elevation movement and the green complexes are also very unique.”

Those mostly downhill elevation changes begin on the first tee, which tumbles dramatically to the green and continues on a pair of photogenic par 3s: the third and the 11th, which drops 80 feet from tee to green. There are some notable uphill exceptions however, like the ninth, a long and strong par 5, as well as the 13th and 15th.

During last year’s first full season, Jack Frost National hosted approximately 15,000 rounds. “Our superintendent, Bryan Nuss, did an exceptional job getting the course prepared,” adds Lenhart. “There were still some areas that needed to grow in, but we took the time to expedite those, and now it’s ready. The front nine was the first side built, so that was a bit ahead in terms of conditioning, but now we have the full 18 in very good shape.”

The course is the latest addition to a roster of stellar area tracks, a number of which have joined together to promote the Poconos as a golf destination. “This year we’re fully loaded,” says Lenhart. “We have the playing conditions where we want them. We’ve removed all the, ‘I can’t wait until this will be great, but when?’ comments. We’ve answered that question now for the most part. It should be a good year.”