What Scottsdale golf courses have the best greens?

Troon North, TPC Scottsdale, and We-Ko-Pa are known for the best public greens in the area, offering smooth, fast, and well-maintained putting surfaces.

Are there affordable Scottsdale courses with great greens?

Yes, Papago and McDowell Mountain both offer excellent greens at lower price points, with great conditioning and public access.

When are Scottsdale greens in the best shape?

Winter and spring (November through April) are the best months for firm, fast, and smooth greens due to ideal overseeding and weather conditions.

Scottsdale

Scottsdale Golf Courses with the Best Greens

Fast, true, and beautifully maintained, these Scottsdale public golf courses have the best greens for serious putting.

July 23, 2025 · 6 min read

If you're the guy who brings his putting mirror or just loves the roll of a pure green, you already know: not all putting surfaces are created equal. Scottsdale delivers some of the best-maintained public courses in the country, but a few stand out for next-level green conditions.

This guide breaks down the public-access courses in Scottsdale with the best greens, perfect for groups that take putting seriously.

Quick Answer: Best Greens in Scottsdale Golf

Troon North, TPC Scottsdale (Stadium), and We-Ko-Pa (Saguaro) are widely recognized for having the smoothest and most consistent public greens in the area. Add in Papago and McDowell Mountain for solid, affordable options that still roll great.

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What Makes a “Great” Putting Surface?

Here’s what sets elite greens apart:

Smooth, consistent roll (no bumps or patches)
Firm and fast but still receptive to approach shots
True breaks that reward good reads and pace
High-quality Bermuda or bentgrass management
Regular rolling and top-notch maintenance

Every course listed below offers public tee times and is playable for group trips, bachelor parties, or serious golf weekends.

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Scottsdale Public Golf Courses with the Best Greens

1. Troon North – Pinnacle & Monument

North Scottsdale | $$$

Troon North’s greens are tournament-quality year-round. Fast, firm, and exceptionally maintained, they reward precision, especially on the undulating back 9s.

Pristine surfaces with true roll
Excellent speed control in winter and spring
Elevation changes make for tricky reads

Related: Troon is also one of the Best Desert-Style Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale

2. TPC Scottsdale – Stadium Course

North Scottsdale | $$$

Home of the WM Phoenix Open, this PGA Tour stop features greens that are dialled in year-round. They're fast and firm; bring your best short game.

Tour-level maintenance
Pure Bermuda roll
Best greens in town, December–March

Related: Featured in our Best Scottsdale Golf Courses for Low Handicappers

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3. We-Ko-Pa – Saguaro Course

Fort McDowell | $$$

Known for wide fairways and untouched views, We-Ko-Pa also delivers some of the best-kept greens in Arizona. Smooth, subtle breaks and consistent pace make it a favorite among Scottsdale locals.

No homes or noise, just golf
Immaculate green complexes
Excellent pace of play, even on busy days

Related: Also appears in Scottsdale Golf Courses with the Best Views

4. McDowell Mountain Golf Club

North Scottsdale | $$

This one flies under the radar but deserves a spot on this list. The greens roll pure, especially early morning, and the layout is forgiving for most handicaps.

Medium-fast, true surfaces
Clean green surrounds for short-game work
Great blend of challenge and approachability

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5. Papago Golf Club

Phoenix / Tempe Border | $

Owned by the City of Phoenix but maintained like a private facility thanks to ASU's golf team partnership. The greens are legit, firm, fast, and surprisingly true for the price.

Budget-friendly, but with elite conditioning
Open fairways, strong finishing holes
Perfect if you're flying in or out the same day

Related: Also listed in our Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups

Tips for Groups That Love Good Greens

Book AM tee times: You’ll get the truest roll before afternoon wear sets in
Play early in the trip: Save your best putting days before the party takes over
Bring the right ball: Softer covers help on fast Bermuda surfaces

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Whether you’re teeing it up with beginners or keeping things casual, these Scottsdale picks make sure everyone in the group enjoys the round.

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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