Which Scottsdale public courses are the most walkable?

Top walkable choices include Silverado, McDowell Mountain, Papago, Starfire, and Troon North for bucket-list walks in cooler months. They offer scenic views, manageable elevation, and logical green-to-tee transitions.

When is the best time of day and year to walk in Scottsdale?

Sunrise and late afternoon are most comfortable. October through April is the prime walking season. In summer, aim for first light or twilight to avoid heat.

Do Scottsdale courses allow or rent pushcarts?

Many public courses allow and rent pushcarts, but inventory can be limited on busy days. Call ahead to reserve or bring a compact foldable cart if you prefer to guarantee one.

Are Troon North courses realistic for walkers?

Yes for fit golfers in cooler weather. Expect longer green-to-tee walks and some elevation. Plan extra time and consider a lighter bag or pushcart.

What should I bring for a comfortable walking round in the desert?

Carry water and electrolytes, sunscreen, hat, light breathable clothing, and a small towel. Use a lightweight carry bag or pushcart and choose supportive spikeless shoes.

Scottsdale

Best Scottsdale Golf Courses for Scenic Walking Rounds

These walkable public golf courses in Scottsdale combine stunning views with flat routing, perfect for golfers who enjoy playing on foot.

green grass field with trees during daytime

August 11, 2025 · 6 min read

Some golfers prefer a power cart. Others prefer a peaceful walk.

In Scottsdale, you don’t have to sacrifice scenery or playability to enjoy a round on foot. While some desert courses are too hilly or spread out for walking, others offer flat terrain, manageable yardages, and incredible views, making them perfect for golfers who want to soak in the moment with every step.

Here are the top public golf courses in Scottsdale for a scenic, walkable round.

Quick Answer: Which Scottsdale Courses Are Best for Scenic Walking?

Top picks: Silverado, McDowell Mountain, Troon North Monument or Pinnacle, Papago, Starfire

Why these: mostly flat routing or gentle grades, pretty views, logical green to tee flow, friendly yardages

Pro tips: book sunrise or late afternoon, rent a pushcart or bring a lightweight carry bag, pack water and sun protection, check overseed schedules in late September and October

1. Silverado Golf Club

Silverado remains one of the most walkable layouts in all of Scottsdale. Located just minutes from Old Town, it’s flat, friendly, and full of palm-lined views that feel more lush than desert.

Why it’s a great walk:

Easy routing with minimal elevation changes
Scenic water features and mature trees
Fast pace of play and affordable green fees

Also featured in: Best Walkable Golf Courses in Scottsdale

See the courses, hotels, and nightlife we recommend for the perfect 3-day getaway.

Get the free sample itinerary

2. McDowell Mountain Golf Club

Built into a gentle valley with sweeping views of the McDowell Mountains, this course is not only photogenic, but it’s also very walkable for most players.

Why walkers love it:

Front 9 is especially walk-friendly
Natural desert scenery and mountain views
Friendly layout with wide landing zones

Also featured in: Scottsdale’s Most Forgiving Golf Courses

3. Troon North (Monument or Pinnacle)

While more demanding, both Troon North courses are walkable in the cooler months and offer some of the best desert views in the region.

What to expect:

Dramatic boulders and saguaro backdrops
Excellent walking paths
Ideal for bucket-list walkers

Also featured in: Best Desert-Style Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale

Looking for a Scottsdale stay and play? Get matched with a curated course lineup plus the perfect hotel or golf house in seconds.

View Scottsdale Stay and Plays

4. Papago Golf Course (Phoenix Bonus Pick)

Technically outside Scottsdale, but close enough to count, Papago is a favorite among walkers for its rolling but manageable terrain and wide-open layout with views of Papago Buttes.

Why it’s worth the drive:

No forced carries
Affordable walk-on tee times
Great warm-up or twilight option

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

5. Starfire Golf Club

With three 9-hole loops, you can tailor your walk here to match your energy level. The flat layout and compact design make it perfect for an easy stroll.

Why walkers choose Starfire:

Designed by Arnold Palmer
Short yardages and mellow greens
Fun and social vibe

Not sure which destination fits your crew? Take our 30-second Golf Trip Quiz and get matched instantly.

Take Quiz Now

More Scottsdale Golf Tips for Walkers

Want more resources for planning a low-key, scenic golf trip? Don’t miss these guides:

Planning a Scottsdale Golf Trip?

Still deciding? Take the Golf Trip Quiz to get matched with your perfect trip plan.

Whether you're walking 9 or strolling 18, these scenic Scottsdale courses offer the perfect mix of nature, playability, and fresh desert air.

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.

Top Scottsdale Hotels & Resorts Unlock 3-Day Scottsdale Itinerary Explore the Scottsdale Content Hub Get a Free 1-Day Sample Itinerary

Other destinations

Unlock the ultimate 3-day itinerary that blends championship golf, dayclub debauchery, and iconic Vegas nightlife.

View Las Vegas Trip

Discover a 3-day itinerary that combines iconic Lowcountry golf, beach bar crawls, and a nightlife scene that punches way above its weight.

View Myrtle Beach Trip

This 3-day itinerary blends legendary championship courses with oceanfront views, fresh coastal cuisine, and California wine country vibes.

View Pebble Beach Trip

This 3-day itinerary delivers legendary Donald Ross designs, longleaf pines, rolling fairways, and an atmosphere that is historic and laid-back.

View Pinehurst Trip

This 3-day itinerary blends iconic desert courses with stylish eats, vintage-chic nightlife, and enough sunshine for everyone.

View Palm Springs Trip