I've have probably played both Sand Hills and Dismal more than anyone, and I love them both.
I completely agree it is tough to compare Par 4's with Par 5's.
For me, the 1st at Sand Hills is more difficult than #1 at Dismal River, especially for the 9 handicapper. Harder to birdie, equally hard to par, much easier to double, or more. Equally tricky tee shot (with Dismal), blind second layup, very tricky short iron to a green - Fast, small, and tough to putt, easy to spin off (not as easy since the green front was redone) and challenging to keep below the hole. Get above the hole and three putt is likely. The front right bunker is always present and intimidating on the very good approach. Both Dismal River and Sand Hills openers, while different, are quite good and challenging holes.
I can't recall making worse then +1 on the first at Dismal River. Can't say the same for opener at Sand Hills.
If ok, for the comparison, I will use the original back tees at Sand Hills versus the member tees at Dismal River. More apples to apples, imo.
Steve - On a "first par five to first Par 5" basis, I find Sand Hills #1 is also more difficult than Dismal River #4.
Kalen, "the ball in native is easy to find in most places, and advance, at both Sand Hills and Dismal River as long as you pay attention. Usually a 1/2 shot penalty for missing the fairway.
The second holes will be very interesting.