What is a desert-style golf course?

Desert-style golf courses use Arizona's natural terrain — including sand, rocks, cacti, and elevation changes — to create scenic, challenging layouts.

What are the best desert-style public golf courses in Scottsdale?

Top public desert-style courses in Scottsdale include Troon North, We-Ko-Pa, Quintero, and McDowell Mountain.

Is desert golf harder than traditional golf?

Desert golf can be more challenging due to firmer fairways, narrow landing areas, and penal terrain off the fairway.

Scottsdale

Best Desert-Style Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale

Want the true Arizona desert golf experience? These public courses in Scottsdale offer dramatic views, cacti-lined fairways, and epic elevation changes.

July 21, 2025 · 6 min read

Looking to soak up the full Arizona experience on your next golf trip? Desert-style golf is what Scottsdale does best, with rocky terrain, cactus-lined fairways, and dramatic elevation changes that make every shot memorable.

Here’s your expert guide to the best public desert-style golf courses in Scottsdale, all of which you can book without needing a private membership.

Quick Answer: Top Desert-Style Public Courses

For pure desert golf, Troon North, We-Ko-Pa, and Quintero top the list. These courses deliver towering saguaros, elevated tee boxes, and unforgettable scenery, making them essential additions to any Scottsdale golf trip.

Need a full itinerary already planned out? Unlock the 3-Day Scottsdale Golf Trip Template for a stress-free, Arizona-style weekend.

What is Desert-Style Golf?

Desert golf is defined by its use of the natural Arizona landscape. Instead of tree-lined fairways and soft green rough, you get:

Firm turf with fast runouts
Native vegetation like cacti, creosote, and desert brush
Expansive waste areas and arroyos
Strategic elevation changes
Stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys

If you're coming from the East Coast or Midwest, this style of golf feels like playing on another planet, in the best way.

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Top Desert-Style Public Courses in Scottsdale

1. Troon North – Pinnacle & Monument

North Scottsdale | $$$

Troon North is the crown jewel of desert golf. Both the Pinnacle and Monument courses are carved through boulder formations, ravines, and cactus-dotted hillsides, offering a fair but dramatic test of skill.

Highlights:

Elevated tee shots with sweeping views
Massive granite formations throughout
Consistently ranked among the top public courses in the U.S.

Looking for other group-friendly courses? Check out our guide to the Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups.

2. We-Ko-Pa – Saguaro & Cholla

Fort McDowell | $$$

We-Ko-Pa offers uninterrupted desert golf with no homes, no traffic, and no distractions. The Saguaro course, designed by Coore & Crenshaw, emphasizes walkability and natural movement through the land.

Highlights:

Remote setting in the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation
360-degree mountain views
Pure golf vibe for serious players

Also featured in our guide to the Best Time of Year to Golf in Scottsdale if you're curious about course conditions across the seasons.

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3. Quintero Golf Club

Peoria (worth the drive) | $$$

Technically outside Scottsdale, Quintero is a must-play if your group is up for a 60-minute drive. Its remote desert setting, towering saguaros, and elevation changes make it one of the most visually stunning courses in Arizona.

Highlights:

Epic elevation shifts
Tight fairways framed by desert terrain
High shot value and great conditioning year-round

4. Boulders Golf Club – North Course

Carefree | $$$

Set among iconic rock formations, Boulders offers a blend of desert target golf and rugged natural beauty. It's semi-private, but public tee times are available, especially in summer.

Highlights:

Unique rock landscape, including 12-million-year-old boulders
Quiet, exclusive desert ambience
Great pairing with a spa or resort stay

Planning a Scottsdale golf trip? Get the 3-day golf trip itinerary, which includes hotels, courses, nightlife, and more.

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5. McDowell Mountain Golf Club

North Scottsdale | $$

For a more budget-friendly option, McDowell Mountain offers a solid desert-style design without the resort pricing. Wide landing areas and mountain vistas make it great for mid- to high-handicap groups.

Highlights:

Great value for desert golf
Walkable layout
Consistent conditions and friendly pace of play

Tips for Playing Desert Golf in Scottsdale

Club selection matters: Firm fairways mean more roll, don't be afraid to club down.
Stay hydrated: The dry air can sneak up quickly, especially in warmer months.
Watch for wildlife: Coyotes, roadrunners, and even javelinas are common sights.
Early tee times are gold: You’ll beat the heat and get crisper visuals.

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For groups chasing the full Arizona vibe, this guide makes it easy to find public-access desert golf that brings the drama without the stress.

Author

Ryan from 18Away Golf trip designer and editor

I help groups plan unforgettable itineraries across the top golf destinations in the U.S., blending real-golfer feedback with first-hand course research.

About the author · [email protected]

About This Scottsdale Guide

Every 18Away guide is independently written and updated by real golfers. We evaluate public access, group-friendly value, and proximity to top courses, referencing thousands of verified reviews, rate data, and on-site experience. Guides are refreshed regularly as conditions & pricing change over time.

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