Which Scottsdale golf course has the most challenging 18th hole?

Troon North’s Pinnacle Course has one of the toughest and most scenic finishing holes in Scottsdale, requiring an accurate tee shot and precise approach.

What makes a good finishing hole on a golf course?

A great finishing hole combines strategy, beauty, and pressure — with features like water hazards, elevation changes, and tight landing zones.

Are these Scottsdale finishing holes on public courses?

Yes, all the finishing holes featured are at public or semi-public courses that can be booked by visiting golfers.

Scottsdale

Scottsdale Golf Courses with the Most Challenging Finishing Holes

These Scottsdale courses serve up the most exciting, scenic, and punishing closing holes to test your game and end your round in style.

a cactus on a hill with a view of a town in the distance

August 31, 2025 · 6 min read

Not all 18th holes are created equal. In Scottsdale, some public courses finish with a bang, scenic, strategic, or flat-out brutal. If your group loves a high-stakes finish (or just wants a good story for the bar afterward), this is your guide.

We’re diving into the most exciting and challenging finishing holes on Scottsdale’s public-access courses, the ones where your trip bets, side games, or pride get decided.

Quick Answer: Scottsdale's Toughest Finishing Holes

For memorable closers, head to:

Troon North (Pinnacle No. 18) – elevated tee, forced carry, epic desert views
We-Ko-Pa Saguaro (No. 18) – tough uphill finish framed by mountains
TPC Scottsdale (Stadium No. 18) – water left, stadium pressure feels
Talking Stick O’odham (No. 18) – strategic dogleg finish
Eagle Mountain (No. 18) – downhill beauty with club selection drama

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What Makes a Great Finishing Hole?

Scottsdale’s top closers tend to share a few traits:

Visual drama: Elevation, water, mountain views
Strategic complexity: Doglegs, bunkers, forced carries
Pressure moments: Narrow landing zones or intimidating approach shots
Memorability: You’ll talk about it over dinner — or drinks

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Best Public Course Finishing Holes in Scottsdale

1. Troon North – Pinnacle Course No. 18

North Scottsdale | $$$

A signature finish on one of Scottsdale’s top public tracks. You’re teeing off from an elevated box to a fairway guarded by desert and bunkers, then facing a tricky green complex.

Epic desert views
Forced carry off the tee
Strategic green location

Also featured in our Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Groups roundup.

2. We-Ko-Pa – Saguaro Course No. 18

Fort McDowell | $$$

A long, uphill par-4 that requires two pure shots to reach the green in regulation. No homes, just pure desert and pressure.

One of the best closing visuals in the Valley
Tough tee shot alignment
No bailout around the green

This course is also one of our picks in Best Desert-Style Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale.

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3. TPC Scottsdale – Stadium Course No. 18

North Scottsdale | $$$

You’ve seen it on TV — now it’s your turn. The 18th is a par-4 with water hugging the left side and plenty of pressure from the open layout.

Famous finish with TOUR pedigree
Water, bunkers, and wind factor in
Great place for match-ending drama

More insight into Scottsdale Golf Courses with the Best Greens.

4. Talking Stick – O’odham Course No. 18

Scottsdale | $$

A wide but deceiving fairway lures big drives, but a misjudged approach can leave a tricky up-and-down. Flat terrain, but smartly designed.

Long par-4 with subtle challenges
Great for match play strategy
Walkable finish near the clubhouse

Also mentioned in our guide to Best Walkable Golf Courses in Scottsdale.

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5. Eagle Mountain Golf Club No. 18

Fountain Hills | $$

A downhill finisher with elevation and a sloping fairway that makes club choice critical. The approach is into a green protected by bunkers and a natural slope.

Picture-perfect desert surroundings
Strategy over brute strength
Twilight rounds = unforgettable finish

Featured in Scottsdale Golf Courses with the Best Views.

Tips for Playing Scottsdale’s Toughest Final Holes

Club down off the tee: Accuracy matters more than distance on desert closers
Respect the wind: It often shifts in the afternoon
Don’t force hero shots: Especially with hazards or tight targets
Know your carry distances: Critical on forced-carry holes like Troon North

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Want a dramatic finish to your round and your trip? These closing holes bring the heat and a story to tell over post-round beers.

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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