Panther Trail opened in 1985 as part of The Woodlands Resort and Conference Center, a large mixed-use development north of Houston. The course represents a collaboration between Joe Lee and Robert von Hagge, two architects known for their work across the southern United States during the resort golf boom of the 1970s and 1980s. Von Hagge's involvement brought his characteristic bold bunkering and water features to the design, while Lee contributed his experience in creating playable resort layouts. The course occupies rolling terrain within the master-planned community of The Woodlands, which was developed on former pine forest land. The routing incorporates the natural topography of East Texas, with elevation changes modest by regional standards but significant enough to create variety in lies and approaches. Water comes into play on multiple holes, typical of the era's resort design philosophy, and the layout features the large, sculptured bunkers that became a von Hagge signature. Panther Trail serves primarily as a resort amenity for conference attendees and visitors to The Woodlands, though it also accommodates local play. The course fits within a broader golf complex at the resort, which has included multiple layouts over the years. The design balances challenge for better players with accessibility for resort guests of varying abilities, reflecting its dual role as both a serious golf venue and a hospitality asset. The surrounding pines and native vegetation provide definition and frame holes throughout the property.