Golf

What’re the best golf courses in Scottsdale?

Scottsdale is one of the premier golf destinations in the United States, known for its high-end courses, desert landscapes, and world-class facilities. Whether you’re a serious golfer or just looking to enjoy the scenery, Scottsdale has something for every level of player. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the best golf courses in the area.

Many courses in Scottsdale are resort-style with championship layouts, stunning desert vistas, and top-notch amenities. The city is also home to several private clubs that occasionally allow guest play through resort packages or special arrangements.

  • Troon North Golf Club: Often ranked as the top public course in Scottsdale, Troon North offers two 18-hole courses (Monument and Pinnacle) with dramatic desert terrain, challenging bunkers, and large greens. Ideal for players looking for a memorable Arizona golfing experience.
  • Grayhawk Golf Club: Home to two courses, Raptor and Talon, Grayhawk combines challenging layouts with beautiful desert scenery. Raptor is known for its strategic holes and slope challenges, while Talon offers wide fairways and excellent conditions for all skill levels.
  • We-Ko-Pa Golf Club: Located just outside of Scottsdale near Fort McDowell, this public course features Cholla and Saguaro courses with breathtaking Sonoran Desert backdrops. The course is designed to highlight the natural terrain, and it’s known for its excellent conditioning and minimal housing intrusions.
  • Talking Stick Golf Club: This public facility offers the O’odham and Piipaash courses, providing varied challenges and a great mix of desert and traditional layouts. Its convenient location and resort-style amenities make it a favorite for visitors.
  • Arizona Biltmore Golf Club: This historic course has hosted many professional events and offers a classic layout with well-maintained fairways, scenic desert vistas, and a sense of tradition. Ideal if you’re looking for a mix of challenge and history.

Other notable courses worth considering:

  • Silverleaf Club: Exclusive and private, this course is part of DC Ranch and designed by Tom Weiskopf. Reservations are typically via resort package or connections, but it offers spectacular desert views and a challenging layout.
  • Desert Mountain Club: Home to six Tom Fazio-designed courses, it’s an exceptional destination for avid golfers seeking a variety of experiences in a single location.
  • The Boulders Resort Golf Club: Featuring two courses set among giant granite boulders, this course offers unique terrain and memorable holes, ideal for those seeking a scenic and slightly different desert golf experience.

In summary, for public and visitor-friendly play, Troon North, Grayhawk, We-Ko-Pa, and Talking Stick are top choices. For luxury and private experiences, Desert Mountain and The Boulders provide exceptional desert courses. Scottsdale’s combination of layout, scenery, and amenities makes it a premier golf destination for any traveler.


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