Taking maximum advantage of the rugged sand dunes and native vegetation, Robert Trent Jones Jr. masterfully adapted the design to the natural conditions. In the spirit of links design, Desert Dunes places a premium on shotmaking, but at the same time offers ample room for recovery play. Perfectly situated to provide some of the most stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains, Desert Dunes is unquestionably one of the most distinctive golf experiences in the area and a favorite among both locals and visitors. And, with the introduction of the Desert Dunes Classic in November 2010, Desert Dunes is now an annual stop for the Canadian Professional Tour and an enjoyable test for some of the game's most promising young players. Opened in 1989, Desert Dunes has received a variety of recognition and awards over the years, including being ranked as one of the Top 30 public golf facilities in the U.S. and rated a Four Star Place to Play by Golf Digest. In addition to a long term commitment to host the Canadian Tour, Desert Dunes has hosted the 1996 PGA Tour Q-School, a 1998 U.S. Open qualifier, and numerous other competitive events. Desert Dunes is an important part of the rich tradition and history of golf in the Coachella Valley, and with a recent ownership change and a renewed commitment to the facility, Desert Dunes is once again a must-play course in the Palms Springs area.