Course Review - Desert Canyon Golf Club

Desert Canyon, formerly known as Fountain Hills Golf Club, opened in 1971 and remains a hidden treasure. It plays to a backdrop of a pristine sky and views of some of Arizona's most beautiful scenic mountains. The greens are immaculate, lightning quick, and can be very deceptive. When putting, remember everything slopes towards the valley. Desert Canyon features elevated tees coupled with a variety of extreme elevation changes and strategically placed doglegs. Playability is at a premium at this forgiving, traditionally styled course in Fountain Hills. Many female golfers have picked Desert Canyon as their favorite course in the valley of the sun. Recently new tee boxes were added, raising the yardage from the tips by a few hundred yards and making Desert Canyon more challenging for the low handicap golfer. From most of the holes, especially the elevated areas, there are spectacular views of the world's tallest fountain - over 500 feet! For men with handicaps under 18, we recommend playing from the tips. Desert Canyon is playable, fun, and you will leave with a smile on your face and a few extra dollars in your pocket.

The 16th hole, par 3 is the signature hole it is a spectacular par 3 that drops hundreds of feet to the green. Watching the tee shot float in the air for what seems like an eternity, with the incredible mountains backdrop, makes it a very memorable golf shot.

Other Information - Desert Canyon Golf Club

Practice Facilities: There is a very nice driving range, putting and chipping green with a practice bunker. Range balls are included.

19th Hole: Located in the clubhouse is the DC Bar & Grill with its golf lounge, where you can relax before and after golf and enjoy breathtaking mountain views. DC Bar & Grill is well known for its fabulous Sunday brunch and outstanding lunch menu.

Clubhouse: Enjoy the full service clubhouse. There is also a snack bar, and drink cart.

The Players:

• Designer: John Allen
• Director of Golf: Jason Looman

Grass type: Bermuda with rye grass overseeding during the winter months.

Cart Path Only: No, 90 degree rule.

Spikes shoes allowed: No

Recommended handicap: All players from a 1 handicap to 100 handicap will enjoy Desert Canyon. It is very woman friendly, playable, fun and yet still challenging.

1 -10 Course Rating by Meridian’s Golf Specialists: 8 ½

Comments by Meridian Guests:

• “It is peaceful and quiet with breathtaking views”.
• “The greens are so true.” “My wife and I play Desert Canyon every time we stay at Meridian.”
• “Wow, I couldn’t believe how many million dollar homes overlook the course.” “I had so much fun playing Desert Canyon, I played it again the next day.”

The Drive: Only 25 minutes away in Fountain Hills. You drive up the mountain to the course. It is a scenic drive.