The Dragon at Nakoma Golf Resort in Clio: A little tamer but a High Sierra must-play course

CLIO, Calif. -- The Dragon at Nakoma Golf Resort is back, a little tamer, but still one of the best plays in the High Sierra.

Located near Graeagle in Clio, this remarkable golf facility opened notoriously back in 2000 and proclaimed itself as one of the toughest golf courses in the country.

Well, that strategy didn't work too well. Golfers came once but not much after experiencing the punishment, and the development, which also includes a residential and resort component, not to mention a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed clubhouse, went belly-up.

New ownership purchased the development in 2010 with aspirations of taming this beast. After some extensive renovations to the course to make it easier, The Dragon is reopened and sporting an easier look. Fairways are wider, sand traps have been removed and certain greens have been entirely rebuilt.

Still, there are some spots on the course where this course shows some teeth. Many greens are elevated and have bunkers beside them, and the constant elevation change puts a premium on approach shots.

But still, the course is wildly scenic. Some homes are scattered throughout the property, but it's not densely built up whatsoever, and most views from the tee are awe-inspiring. The High Sierra Mountains are on full display. To the left of the fourth hole is a giant valley with a railway bridge running across -- a real spectacular vantage point that is unique even for gorgeous Plumas County.

For value-seeking golfers, The Dragon's rates are tough to beat as the facility woos back golfers to its friendlier layout. Green fees can be found for well less than $100 most of the summer, which compared to its pricy peers, is a real steal.