fairway

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes playing the fairways here different from other desert courses in the Southwest?

We've played our share of desert tracks, and what sets this one apart is the dramatic elevation changes coupled with surprisingly lush, yet firm, fairways. You'll find yourself hitting off elevated tees into wide landing areas, but don't get complacent-the desert washes are always lurking just off the edges, ready to swallow an errant shot. The course demands precision, especially on the back nine where the views are as distracting as the tight doglegs.

How well-maintained are the fairways, and when is the best time to experience them at their peak?

The grounds crew here does an exceptional job; the fairways are consistently immaculate, offering a fantastic lie every time. We highly recommend visiting in late fall or early spring-think October through November or March through April-when the temperatures are perfect and the overseeded rye grass is vibrant green. Avoid summer if you can, as the heat can make the course play much firmer and faster than you might prefer.

Are there any specific fairway challenges or unique features we should be prepared for on this course?

Absolutely, be ready for some serious undulation, especially on holes 7 and 14. These fairways aren't just sloped; they feature subtle swales that can kick a perfectly struck ball into an awkward lie or even a bunker. We also love the unique "split fairway" on the par-5 12th-it forces a strategic decision off the tee that can make or break your birdie attempt.

Is this course's fairways forgiving for higher handicappers, or is it strictly for low-handicap players?

While it presents a good challenge, this course is surprisingly playable for all skill levels, provided you choose the right tees. The fairways are generally wide enough to accommodate a slight miss, but stray too far and you'll be in the desert scrub or one of the many well-placed bunkers. We suggest playing up a tee box if you're not consistently hitting a long, straight ball-it makes the experience much more enjoyable.

Given its popularity, how does the course manage pace of play on the fairways, especially during peak season?

We've found they do a commendable job managing pace of play, even when the tee sheet is packed. Marshals are visible and proactive, encouraging groups to keep moving without being overly intrusive. Expect a round to take around 4.5 hours during peak times, which is reasonable for a course of this caliber and popularity.