Courses, Travel & Tee Times

Ten reasons why a tee time at Troon North Golf Club in Scottsdale is worth the hefty green fee

It's become a cliche to say Troon North Golf Club is one of the best golfing experiences in Arizona, if not the country. Any list ranking the top courses in the Valley shouldn't be taken seriously if it doesn't include either the Pinnacle or Monument Course. The scenery is spectacular, the courses are always in immaculate condition and the service is first-rate. But here's our own top 10 -- the 10 best reasons Troon North is worth the hefty price tag.

All handicaps welcome at bargain McDowell Mountain Golf Club in Scottsdale Arizona

When Phil Mickelson and partner Steve Loy bought McDowell Mountain Golf Club, they went in a new direction. The result? A welcome change of pace from McDowell's notorious brethren in north Scottsdale. The result: an affordable course that anyone can enjoy, particularly high handicappers. It won't be the most memorable place golfers play, and they might not have any Kodak moments, but if the aim is to enjoy 18 holes and have a chance at a few birdies, McDowell Mountain is the place to be.

All handicaps welcome at bargain McDowell Mountain Golf Club in Scottsdale Arizona

When Phil Mickelson and partner Steve Loy bought McDowell Mountain Golf Club, they went in a new direction. The result? A welcome change of pace from McDowell's notorious brethren in north Scottsdale. The result: an affordable course that anyone can enjoy, particularly high handicappers. It won't be the most memorable place golfers play, and they might not have any Kodak moments, but if the aim is to enjoy 18 holes and have a chance at a few birdies, McDowell Mountain is the place to be.

To go low. avoid the sand at the Golf Club of Estrella in Goodyear

The Golf Club of Estrella, a true desert course, doesn't immediately come to mind when talk turns to the best courses in the Valley. That's due in part to its location. Golfers who stay in north Scottsdale and play the top-notch courses in that area -- Troon North, We-Ko-Pa, etc. -- likely aren't going to get in their car and make the one-hour trek to play Estrella. That's their loss. Those who do make the trip will be happy they did (as long as they stay out of the bunkers).

With new management, and a new name, Raven Golf Club Phoenix is back on track

The renovation at Raven Golf Club Phoenix by its new owners included new bunkers, the pruning of dead trees and 750 tons of cinder spread under trees to give the course a cleaner look. In fact, when golfers turn onto the property, they'll feel like they were transplanted to the Midwest, despite Raven Golf Club's middle-of-the-desert location, just south of Phoenix. It's a gentle parkland course -- there's not a saguaro cactus or cholla bush on the property.

Padre Course at Camelback Inn in Scottsdale Arizona rises from the dirt literally

One year ago, the Padre Course at Camelback Golf Club in Scottsdale was a dust bowl. Something killed almost all of the fairway grass. These days, however, the fairways are lush and green, and Padre is back to what it was: A Midwestern-style parkland course located in the middle of the desert.

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes: A tasty Arizona golf experience south of Phoenix

Originally a private, all-men's club, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes has found its own unique identity among Phoenix/Scottsdale-area courses. Anything but typical desert golf, this wonderfully difficult Brian Curley design is one of the most unique layouts in the area. There aren't many links-type courses in the desert, and Southern Dunes certainly stands out. As an added bonus, the clubhouse food is as good as it gets.

Before or after football, find great golf courses in Phoenix after an Arizona Cardinals game

University of Phoenix Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals, may be located northwest of Phoenix-Scottsdale in Glendale. But this is the Valley of the Sun, where there are limitless options to swing the sticks. Here's where to tee it up after football.

In an area with several standout golf course communities, Rio Verde Country Club stands out

There's no shortage of golf course communities in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. But even with an impressive selection, Rio Verde Country Club stands out. If you're looking for a second home in one of the most reliable winter climates in the nation, or a place to retire to without spending a fortune or living in a resort, Rio Verde is worth a look, Larry Olmsted writes.

In an area with several standout golf course communities Rio Verde Country Club in Arizona stands out

There's no shortage of golf course communities in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. But even with an impressive selection, Rio Verde Country Club stands out. If you're looking for a second home in one of the most reliable winter climates in the nation, or a place to retire to without spending a fortune or living in a resort, Rio Verde is worth a look, Larry Olmsted writes.