I have been playing Papago Golf Course recently, mostly because a good friend and plus handicap golfer got a great deal on an annual pass. ($1900 for unlimited practice, unlimited golf after 12:00) I also purchased the Phoenix Golfer Card which has allowed me to play cheap even though the weather is cooling down.
The course is very unique. It sits in the middle of Phoenix surrounded by Papago Park with no houses except for a few condominiums on the back 9 that do not come into play. The course is not exceptional aesthically pleasing, but it is well maintained and provides a good challenge for any level of golfer.
Course: Papago Golf Course
Location: 5595 E Moreland St. Phoenix, Arizona
Course: Municipal Public Course, 18 Holes
Designer:William Francis Bell (same designer of Torrey Pines in San Diego)
Website: www.papagogolfcourse.net
Tees: 4 sets of tees from 5777 yarsd to 7333 yards
Practice Facility: Large practice facility with putting green, chipping green, full driving range. The facility is in a beautiful setting as you hit balls back up into Papago Butte. It is really a remarkable setting for a practice range.
Review:
Positives: The course provides a strong variety of holes including shots into greens uphill and downhill. The greens have been smooth and true, except for the couple times I have caught them being seeded. The bunkers are well kept with the right amount of sand. They both 9 hole and walking rates, which is a real novelty in the Valley. The golf facility overall is well-kept and the people are genuine and friendly.
For me, the best part of the course is the challenge it brings. There are really long par 3's on both sides which require hitting fairway woods with accuracy.
Negatives: For as nice and challenging the golf course is, it is does not present itself strong. The clubhouse is a modular trailer which does not have much for food or merchandise. Although the course is on the mountain, it sometimes feels like it could be more green and lush. It is a municipal course in a city that is struggling finnacially, but this can take away from the overall experience.
Favorite Hole: No 5, 383 yard par-4
The uphill, dogleg-left, tee shot requires a medium to long shot to have a short iron into the green. The second shot is the gem of the hole. The elevated green is protected by bunkers and a tree that shades the green. The green slops from back to front, so if you can get a little spin on it, you should add 3-4 yards on your shot to put it cl0se.
Recommended For: Golfers who want a secluded, reasonably priced mountain golf course in the middle of the City. It may not be for all visitors who desire a total package golf experience, but it is definitely worth a shot if you are looking for some desert golf.
