Scottsdale, Arizona is renowned as one of the top golf destinations in the world, boasting over 200 courses set amidst picturesque desert landscapes, impressive mountain ridges, and manmade irrigation lakes. With such an array of public courses catering to players of all skill levels, it is no wonder that golf enthusiasts flock to Scottsdale for an unparalleled golf experience. In this article, we present the best public golf courses in Scottsdale, as ranked by Golf Digest, highlighting what makes each of these courses unique and captivating for golfers.
Quintero Golf Club
Located approximately 45 minutes from Scottsdale’s airport, Quintero Golf Club in Peoria, Arizona, is well worth the trip. This former private club offers diverse topography, featuring holes framed by mountain ridges, Sonoran desert, manmade irrigation lakes, and natural desert washes. The par-5 eighth and par-4 14th holes climb up long slopes, while the stunning par 3s at six and 16 descend dramatically downhill. Quintero’s scenic beauty and playability make it a delight for golfers.
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club: Saguaro
Situated in Fort McDowell, Arizona, the Saguaro course ranks second among public golf courses in the state. The Coore and Crenshaw design marries the traits of a desert course with a traditional, walkable layout. The Saguaro features wide, forgiving fairways and greens positioned near the following tees, providing 360-degree views of four surrounding mountains: Superstition, McDowell, Mazatzal, and the Four Peaks.
TPC Scottsdale: Stadium
Home to the Waste Management Phoenix Open, TPC Scottsdale’s Stadium course boasts the renowned par-3 16th stadium hole. Designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, the course offers a risk-and-reward-filled back nine, and Weiskopf has overseen renovations to please both tour players and resort guests.
Troon North Golf Club: Monument
The prestigious Tom Weiskopf-designed Monument course pays tribute to Open Championship-style golf in the heart of the Scottsdale desert. Nestled in the shadows of Pinnacle Peak, Troon North navigates through massive granite boulders, offering golfers a challenging yet visually stunning experience.
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club: Cholla
Located at the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, the Scott Miller-designed Cholla course winds through the arroyos and ridges of the Sonoran Desert. This hidden gem features split fairways, stacked stone riverbeds, and towering 30-foot cacti that contribute to the course’s distinctive character.
Troon North Golf Club: Pinnacle
Similar to its sister course, the Pinnacle at Troon North is carved into the natural desert landscape, with enormous boulders lining the fairways and greens. The course’s severe elevation changes provide a unique variety of holes and breathtaking vistas. The signature par-3 16th, aptly nicknamed “Post Card,” challenges players with a tee shot over water to a large, undulating green.
Grayhawk Golf Club: Raptor
Designed by Tom Fazio, the Raptor Course is one of two 18-hole layouts at Grayhawk. This meticulously maintained course has hosted PGA Tour’s Frys.com Open and is known for its excellent conditioning. The Raptor showcases a beautiful mix of desert vegetation and strategically placed bunkers, making it both visually appealing and challenging for golfers.
In addition to the highlighted courses, Scottsdale and the surrounding area offer numerous other public golf courses worth exploring, such as Apache Creek Golf Club, Cattail and Devils Claw at Whirlwind, Duke at Rancho Eld
orado, and the courses at Camelback Golf Club and Wildfire Golf Club. Other notable courses include the Boulders Golf Club & Resort, McDowell Mountain Golf Club, Legend at Arrowhead, and the various courses at Palm Valley Golf Club and Talking Stick Golf Club.
Bear Creek Golf Course, Ocotillo Golf Course, and TPC of Scottsdale also provide exciting options for golfers looking for a memorable golf experience. Other gems include Corte Bella Golf Club, Kokopelli Golf Course, Stonecreek Golf Club, Superstition Springs Golf Club, Mountain Brook Golf Club, and Rancho Manana Golf Club. For golfers interested in a more casual game, Power Ranch Golf Club, Sunland Springs Village, and Toka Sticks Golf Club offer enjoyable courses as well.
With a golf scene as diverse and captivating as Scottsdale’s, it’s no surprise that this desert oasis has become a premier golf destination for players from around the world. Whether you’re a beginner seeking to hone your skills or an experienced golfer looking for a new challenge, Scottsdale’s public golf courses are sure to deliver unforgettable experiences on the green. So, pack your clubs and prepare to be amazed by the stunning vistas and top-notch courses that await you in the beautiful Sonoran desert.
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