How long is a typical round at these courses?

Under normal conditions, plan for about 4 to 4.5 hours. Peak weekends and holidays can add time, so aim for mid-morning or late-afternoon (twilight) starts for smoother flow.

What tee times are best to avoid slow play?

Mid-morning (8:30–10:30am) often threads the needle between early-rush congestion and midday backups. Twilight can also move quickly on pace-focused courses if daylight is sufficient.

Do these courses actually use marshals during busy periods?

Yes. These operations are known for visible starters and on-course marshals who check times, nudge slow groups, and maintain spacing—especially on weekends and during peak season.

Any tips for keeping our group on pace?

Play ready golf, watch each other’s shots to minimize searches, choose the right tees, and keep pre-shot routines tight. If a gap opens ahead, let faster groups through or pick up to the pace marker.

Are carts required, and does walking slow the group down?

Policies vary by course and season, but most allow carts and walkers. On flatter tracks like Talking Stick and Camelback – Padre, walking can maintain pace if players are ready and keep up with spacing.

Scottsdale

Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale with Course Marshals

Q: Which Scottsdale public courses have the best pace of play?

Standouts include TPC Scottsdale – Champions, Talking Stick (O’odham & Piipaash), Silverado, Grayhawk – Talon, and Camelback – Padre. They pair playable layouts with active marshals and clear pace standards.

Hate slow golf? These public courses in Scottsdale are known for active course marshals and reliable pace, keeping your trip stress-free from tee to green.

white and black golf cart on green grass field during daytime

August 31, 2025 · 6 min read

By Ryan at 18Away

One slow foursome can derail a whole day, especially on a golf trip where you're trying to maximize your time. Thankfully, several Scottsdale public courses take pace of play seriously with active course marshals, clear expectations, and well-run operations.

If you’re planning a Scottsdale golf trip for a group that wants to avoid marathon rounds, this guide will help you pick the right spots.

Quick Answer: Fast-Pace Public Courses in Scottsdale

Play TPC Scottsdale – Champions, Talking Stick (O’odham & Piipaash), Silverado, Grayhawk – Talon, and Camelback – Padre. These tracks are known for active marshals, clear pace policies, and playable layouts, expect ~4–4.5 hours when you book smart (mid-morning starts or non-peak twilight).

What Makes a Course Good for Pace of Play?

We looked for:

On-course marshals who actively manage pace
Course policies that emphasize keeping groups moving
Tee time spacing that avoids backups
Layouts that aren’t overly punishing (search party–style rough = bad news)

Here are the best public courses in Scottsdale that won’t waste your day.

1. TPC Scottsdale – Champions Course

While the Stadium Course gets most of the fame, the Champions Course is often praised for pace. It’s well-run, moderately challenging, and known for avoiding bottlenecks thanks to active marshals and good spacing.

Why it’s reliable:

Owned and operated by the PGA TOUR
Clearly enforced pace policies
Wide fairways = less time spent looking for balls

Also featured in:
Best Budget-Friendly Golf Courses in Scottsdale

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2. Talking Stick Golf Club

Talking Stick’s O’odham and Piipaash courses are both pace-friendly. The layouts are forgiving, and the resort-level staff keep things flowing, especially during peak season.

Why it makes the list:

Starter explains the expected round time
On-course marshals actually engage slow groups
Flat terrain helps walkers and carts alike move smoothly

Great add-on for:
Best Walkable Golf Courses in Scottsdale
Best Scottsdale Golf Trip Itinerary for Groups

3. Silverado Golf Club

A shorter course with a reputation for being quick and easygoing, Silverado does a great job keeping players on track without being overbearing.

Best features:

4-hour pace is the norm
Wide, straight holes make for faster play
Perfect warm-up course for your trip

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4. Grayhawk Golf Club – Talon Course

While Raptor is a bit more intense, Talon is the more forgiving, pace-friendly choice. Marshals are active and respectful, especially helpful during busy weekends.

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Excellent marshal coverage on weekends
Smart tee time spacing
Great post-round patio for your group to hang out after

5. Camelback Golf Club – Padre Course

The Padre Course at Camelback is a traditional parkland-style layout with excellent staff and a consistent pace standard. It's an underrated gem for groups looking for a smooth ride.

Why it qualifies:

Flat, well-groomed layout
Visible marshal presence on busy days
Good practice area for early arrivals

Also recommended in:
Best Scottsdale Golf Resorts for Guys Trips

Tips to Keep Your Group on Pace

Even the best courses need help from players. Here’s how to do your part:

Play ready golf — no one cares who’s away
Watch each other’s shots — minimize lost balls
Limit range sessions before twilight rounds
Plan replays wisely — don’t squeeze in 9 if sunset is looming

For more help, see our guide on Common Scottsdale Golf Trip Mistakes so you don’t burn time on trip-killers.

More Scottsdale Golf Planning Resources

Planning a Scottsdale Golf Trip?

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Written by Ryan from 18Away, your go-to golf trip planner.

Whether you're looking to avoid slow groups or maximize your afternoon, this guide helps you find the Scottsdale public courses that take pace seriously, so you can spend more time golfing and less time waiting.