Fountain Hills, AZ boasts 6 top-notch golf courses offering stunning desert views and challenging play:
- Desert Canyon Golf Club
- Eagle Mountain Golf Club
- SunRidge Canyon Golf Club
- FireRock Country Club
- We-Ko-Pa Golf Club
- Tonto Verde Golf Club
Quick comparison:
| Course | Difficulty | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Desert Canyon | Tough | Mountain views, wavy fairways | $ |
| Eagle Mountain | Medium | Family-friendly, 6,800 yards | $$ |
| SunRidge Canyon | Hard | "Wicked 6" finish | $$ |
| FireRock | Mixed | Private, water hazards | $$$ |
| We-Ko-Pa | Tough | Two distinct courses | $$ |
| Tonto Verde | Medium | Two courses, mountain views | $$ |
Best time to play: November-March for ideal 70°F weather. Book early for peak season (Feb-Mar) or try summer for deals.
Whether you're a pro or casual player, Fountain Hills has a course for you. Pack your clubs and experience desert golf at its finest!
Desert Canyon Golf Club
Desert Canyon Golf Club is a standout in Fountain Hills. This par 71 championship course weaves through the Sonoran Desert, blending challenge with beauty.
The layout? Open fairways that play tighter thanks to strategic doglegs. Natural arroyos and canyons keep you on your toes. And those sloping terrains? They create blind tee shots that'll keep you guessing.
But it's not just about the game. The views are KILLER:
- Mountains all around
- The world's tallest fountain (500 ft high!)
- Miles of untouched desert
Fast, undulating greens with crazy elevation changes test your putting skills. But hey, they make for great photos too.
Desert Canyon's got the cred to back it up:
| Achievement | Years |
|---|---|
| #1 Public Golf Course in Fountain Hills | 2005-2015 |
| Top 25 Golf Courses in Phoenix/Scottsdale | 2015 |
And the amenities? They've got you covered:
- Newly renovated clubhouse
- Pro shop
- Restaurant (try the steak!)
- Outdoor bar overlooking the 18th and 1st holes
Now, let's talk value. For $85 plus tax, you get:
- 18 holes
- Warm-up balls
- Hot dog and chips at the turn
It can get busy, especially during peak season. But even then, you're looking at about 4 hours and 15 minutes for a round.
"Knowledgeable staff, forgiving fairways, extremely well maintained course with great views." - Tripadvisor Reviewer
Bottom line? Desert Canyon Golf Club serves up a mix of challenge, scenery, and value that's tough to beat in Fountain Hills.
2. Eagle Mountain Golf Club
Tucked in Fountain Hills' McDowell Mountains, Eagle Mountain Golf Club is a golfer's paradise. This Scott Miller masterpiece stretches 6,800 yards with a par-71 layout that'll test your skills without breaking your spirit.
Picture this: you're teeing off surrounded by box canyons and mountain peaks. The Sonoran Desert sprawls below, and the Valley unfolds in the distance. But don't let the views distract you - Eagle Mountain's natural terrain keeps you on your toes.
Here's the lowdown on the course:
| Tee | Par | Yardage | Slope | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold | 71 | 6,800 | 136 | 71.2 |
| Green | 71 | 6,269 | 129 | 69.0 |
| White | 71 | 5,900 | 121 | 66.5 |
| Purple | 71 | 5,065 | 118 | 68.2 |
With four tee options, everyone from beginners to pros can find their sweet spot. The green tees (6,191 yards) are perfect for average golfers, featuring four par fours over 400 yards.
Want a real challenge? Try the 17th hole, "Sunset Point." It's all about precision - one wrong move and your ball's taking a desert vacation.
The course is smart but fair. Watch out for those sloped greens, though. They can turn a chip shot into a head-scratcher if you're not careful.
Eagle Mountain's got more than just great golf. There's a pro shop, practice areas, and a restaurant with killer views. Plus, you get free range balls and access to practice greens.
No wonder it's racked up awards like:
- "Top 50 Public Course's In The Country" - Golf World 2009 Readers Poll
- "#1 Public Golf Course" - Ranking Arizona, 2006 – 2007
- "Best of Phoenix Public Golf Courses" - Phoenix New Times, 2006
Want to make a weekend of it? The Inn at Eagle Mountain's got you covered with suite accommodations and free club rentals.
Pro tip: Show up early, warm up, and grab a yardage booklet. It's like having a local caddie in your pocket.
3. SunRidge Canyon Golf Club
SunRidge Canyon Golf Club in Fountain Hills is a Keith Foster-designed course that'll test your skills. Set in the McDowell Mountains, this 6,823-yard, par-71 layout makes the most of its rugged terrain.
The course has a unique flow. You'll descend on the front nine, then climb back up on the back. It's a workout for your game and your legs.
| Tees | Yardage | Rating | Slope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Back | 6,823 | 72.0 | 138 |
| Middle | 6,403 | 69.8 | 131 |
| Front | 6,004 | 67.6 | 124 |
| Ladies | 4,989 | 69.9 | 124 |
The "Wicked 6" is what SunRidge is famous for. These last six holes play uphill and into the wind. They're tough, but they're also some of the best finishing holes you'll find anywhere.
Take the 17th hole. It's a par-3 that gives you options: a 152-yard shot from up high, or a 209-yard carry over a canyon. It's golf at its finest - beautiful and challenging.
Joel Schafer, the Director of Golf, puts it this way:
"It's a great test of golf. It's definitely a shot makers course. You have to hit every club in the bag."
The course uses natural washes in its design. Nine fairways cross these untouched areas, adding difficulty while keeping the environment intact.
What else can you expect?
- Bermuda grass throughout
- 4 to 4.5 hour rounds (90-degree rule)
- A ranger to help you out at tee time
- Pin placement sheets for newcomers
After your round, hit the Wicked Six Bar & Grill in the Spanish-style clubhouse. Grab a steak or pizza and soak in the desert views.
Want to up your game? SunRidge has you covered with a driving range, short-game area, and a high-tech performance center for club fitting and lessons.
Summer rates run $40 to $65 - a steal for a top 25 course in Arizona. SunRidge Canyon delivers on all fronts: challenge, scenery, and facilities. It's golf as it should be.
4. FireRock Country Club
Just 20 minutes from Scottsdale, FireRock Country Club in Fountain Hills, Arizona, is a golfer's paradise. This Gary Panks-designed course opened in 2000 and has quickly become a local favorite.
The 18-hole championship course makes the most of its desert setting:
- Rolling fairways along canyon washes
- Elevated tees
- Tricky greens
- Minimal housing for that true desert vibe
FireRock caters to all skill levels with five tee options. It's challenging but fair - slightly off-target shots won't ruin your round.
One golfer, Allowishious, raves about the views:
"It's a high desert course that winds through the foothills of terrain that includes tons of different varieties of cactus and shrubbery. It has spectacular views of surrounding mountain ranges."
Beyond golf, FireRock offers:
- Practice facilities
- Clubhouse with dining
- Fitness center
- Tennis and pickleball
- Swimming pool
The course stays in top shape year-round, even during scorching summers.
While it's a private club, some public play is allowed. The $180 green fee might make you think twice, but many say it's worth it for the quality and amenities.
FireRock Country Club is a standout in Fountain Hills. It's a must-play for anyone after a premium desert golf experience.
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5. We-Ko-Pa Golf Club
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club in Fountain Hills is a golfer's paradise. With two killer courses - Cholla and Saguaro - it's pure desert golf without any pesky houses in sight.
The Cholla Course? It's a Scott Miller masterpiece:
- Desert landscapes that'll make your jaw drop
- Greens tucked away like hidden gems
- Tough as nails with a 130 slope rating from the tips
- Four tee options (5,289 to 7,225 yards)
Then there's the Saguaro Course, courtesy of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw:
- Built for walking (ditch the cart!)
- Wide fairways that play fast and firm
- A mix of short and long holes to keep you on your toes
- 6,966 yards, par 71
These courses aren't just good - they're GREAT. Golfweek's been raving about Saguaro for years, ranking it Arizona's #1 public course 14 out of 15 times. Cholla's no slouch either, hanging in the Top 10 for nearly two decades.
What else does We-Ko-Pa offer?
- Big ol' clubhouse (21,000 sq ft) with food and drinks
- Smaller clubhouse for Saguaro
- Practice areas to fine-tune your game
In 2023, they dropped $1.8 million on Cholla upgrades. Matt Barr, the big boss, says:
"Although the turf reduction and enhancements to No. 8 will be the most obvious features, the new greens, bunkers, irrigation infrastructure will positively impact playability and overall golfer satisfaction for years to come."
What can you expect at We-Ko-Pa?
- Views that'll make you forget to swing
- Courses in tip-top shape all year
- Holes that'll challenge you (in a good way)
- Green fees from $95 to $325 (AZ locals get a break)
Bottom line: We-Ko-Pa Golf Club is the real deal. It's desert golf at its finest, and it's waiting for you in Fountain Hills.
6. Tonto Verde Golf Club
Tonto Verde Golf Club sits between the McDowell Mountains and Verde River, offering two championship courses that show off Arizona's desert beauty.
The club has two courses:
- The Ranch Course (Gary Panks design)
- The Peaks Course (Gary Panks and David Graham collaboration)
Let's look at the Peaks Course. It's a par 72 stretching 6,744 yards over gentle hills. This course tests your skills with:
- 43 sand traps
- 3 water hazards
- Five tee sets for all skill levels
Here's a quick look at the tees:
| Tee Color | Yardage | Slope (Men) | Slope (Women) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 6,737 | 133 | - |
| Blue | 6,342 | 126 | - |
| White | 5,952 | 122 | 128 |
| Gold | 5,379 | 119 | - |
| Red | 4,791 | - | 106 |
The Peaks Course is known for being fun and accessible, with greens that challenge but don't overwhelm.
Tonto Verde's amenities include:
- 26,000 sq ft clubhouse
- Pro shop
- Dining area with outdoor patio
- Driving range and short game area
- Putting green
- 18-hole putting course (free for members and those with tee times)
The views at Tonto Verde are stunning. You'll see Four Peaks, Granite Mountain, the Mazatzals, McDowell Mountains, Superstition Mountains, and Weaver's Needle.
Want to live here? Tonto Verde offers luxury townhomes and custom single-family homes.
After golf, try the Mesquite Grill. It serves up modern dishes with a southwest twist.
Tonto Verde is member-owned but welcomes outside players daily. So, locals and visitors alike can enjoy this golf gem in Fountain Hills.
Course Features Comparison
Let's break down the top golf courses in Fountain Hills, Arizona:
| Course | Difficulty | Views | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Desert Canyon | Tough | Mountains & valleys | High tees, wavy fairways | $$ |
| Eagle Mountain | Medium | McDowell Mountains | 6,800 yards, family-friendly | $$$ |
| SunRidge Canyon | Hard | Desert landscape | "Wicked 6" finish | $$$$ |
| FireRock | Mixed | Mountain scenery | Private, water hazards | $$$$$ |
| We-Ko-Pa | Tough | Sonoran Desert | Two distinct courses | $$$$ |
| Tonto Verde | Medium | Four Peaks & McDowells | Two courses: Peaks and Ranch | $$$ |
Desert Canyon? It's all about those high tees and rolling fairways. Great for skilled players who love a view.
Eagle Mountain is your go-to for a family day out. It's 6,800 yards of natural desert beauty, and it won't beat you up like some other courses.
Now, SunRidge Canyon? That's where you go to test your mettle. Those last six holes - the "Wicked 6" - they're no joke. This course even hosted a USGA championship back in '97.
Want to feel fancy? FireRock's your private paradise. Lots of ups and downs, water to dodge, and sand to escape.
We-Ko-Pa gives you two courses and a ton of Sonoran Desert to gawk at. It's on Native American land, so you're in for something special.
Tonto Verde's got two courses too: Peaks and Ranch. The Peaks Course is a par 72 stretching 6,744 yards. It's got 43 sand traps and 3 water hazards, but it won't make you tear your hair out.
So, what's your pick? Want a real challenge? Head to SunRidge Canyon or We-Ko-Pa. Looking for a chill round with killer views? Eagle Mountain or Tonto Verde might be more your speed.
When to Play
Timing can make or break your Fountain Hills golf trip. Here's the scoop:
Prime Time: November to March. Why? While others shiver, you'll golf in 70-degree bliss.
Peak Season: February and March. Courses shine, but your wallet might not.
| Season | Pros | Cons | Rates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak (Feb-Mar) | Top conditions, big events | Pricey, crowded | $100-$300 |
| Winter (Dec-Jan) | Escape the cold, decent rates | Cooler temps | $80-$250 |
| Summer (May-Aug) | Cheapest rates, early tees | Scorching heat | $60-$70 |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | Nice weather, lower rates | Some maintenance | 25% off peak |
Booking Smart:
- Peak season? Book 90 days out.
- Check for dynamic pricing at Eagle Mountain.
- Consider stay-and-play deals at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort.
Summer Golf: Brave the heat for deals, but:
- Tee off early
- Dress light
- Hydrate and slather on sunscreen
Pro Tip: Check aerification schedules. Multi-layout courses like We-Ko-Pa can save you during overseeding in late September or early October.
Wrap-up
Fountain Hills, Arizona is a golfer's paradise. With six stellar courses, each offering a unique desert golf experience, you're in for a treat.
What makes Fountain Hills golf special?
- Variety: From family-friendly Desert Canyon to exclusive FireRock, there's a course for everyone.
- Scenery: Tee off with McDowell Mountains and Tonto National Forest views.
- Challenge: Each course tests different skills, keeping you on your toes.
| Course | Standout Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Desert Canyon | Family-friendly | Casual players |
| Eagle Mountain | Dynamic pricing | Deal hunters |
| SunRidge Canyon | Tough finish | Skilled golfers |
| We-Ko-Pa | Two distinct layouts | Course variety |
Pro tip: Hunt for summer deals. We-Ko-Pa offers rates as low as $69 for Arizona residents in May or June.
Timing matters. Book early for peak season (February-March) or brave the heat for summer savings.
Pro or weekend warrior, Fountain Hills' courses promise an epic round. Pack your clubs and hit this desert golfing haven – your next great game is waiting!
