TPC Scottsdale Champions Course

The Vibe & Terrain

The TPC Scottsdale Champions Course is a stunning example of desert golf, set against the backdrop of the picturesque Arizona landscape. With its rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and lush greens, this course offers a mesmerizing contrast to the arid surroundings. The atmosphere here is inviting yet challenging, often drawing comparisons to a hidden gem in the heart of Scottsdale’s vibrant golf scene. Expect a layout that tests your skills, with plenty of elevation changes and undulating greens that can leave even seasoned golfers scratching their heads.

Local "Insider" Tips

• Pay close attention to the greens; they tend to break towards the nearby McDowell Mountains, making your reads critical.
• Early mornings are ideal for playing here, as the desert heat can become intense by midday. Arrive early to enjoy cooler temperatures.
• Be wary of the afternoon winds that can kick up unexpectedly, especially on the back nine; they can add a whole new dimension to your game.

Caddie's Bag Check (Weather & Gear)

Located at an elevation of around 2,400 feet, the climate at TPC Scottsdale is typically warm and dry, with temperatures often soaring above 90°F during the summer months. Even in cooler seasons, expect plenty of sunshine and low humidity. Since the sun can be relentless on the course, an essential item to pack is a cooling towel. This handy accessory will help keep you comfortable as you navigate the desert landscape. Don't forget to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen liberally!

Course Heritage & Design

Designed by Randy Heckenkemper and Tom Weiskopf (renovation) and established in 1990 as a Public facility.

The Champions Course serves as the desert complement to the famous Stadium Course, featuring a more traditional layout that winds through native Sonoran Desert terrain with saguaro cacti, mesquite trees, and natural desert washes providing both beauty and strategic challenge.

Tournament History

• Qualifying events
• Local Arizona tournaments

Signature Holes

Hole 5 (Par 3, 185 yards) — “Saguaro Sentinel”: A beautiful par-3 framed by towering saguaro cacti, playing to a well-bunkered green set against the McDowell Mountain backdrop.

Hole 17 (Par 4, 430 yards) — “Desert Canyon”: A strategic par-4 that plays through a natural desert wash, where the approach must carry over sandy terrain to a green protected by desert landscape.

Local Weather Intelligence

Sonoran Desert climate with extreme summer heat exceeding 110°F and mild, sunny winters. Very low humidity and over 300 days of sunshine.

Best months to play: October through April

Wind pattern: Generally calm mornings with afternoon thermal winds of 10-15 mph from the west-southwest.

Did You Know?

While overshadowed by its famous sibling the Stadium Course, the Champions Course offers a more serene desert golf experience without the stadium mounding. Located adjacent to the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess resort, it provides a quieter alternative during WM Phoenix Open week.

💰 Estimated Cost & Value

The green fees at TPC Scottsdale Champions Course typically fall into the $$$ category, ranging from $100 to $200. This makes it a premium golf experience, ideal for those seeking the best value golf in AZ.

Verdict: While the cost is on the higher side, the quality of the course and amenities justify the price, making it a good value for money for serious golfers.

⛳ Difficulty & Signature Features

The TPC Scottsdale Champions Course presents a challenging layout with tight fairways and strategically placed water hazards. Its slope rating indicates that it's more suited for experienced players than beginners.

For those looking to review their performance, the scorecard provides valuable insights into the course's challenges.

🤔 Is It Worth Playing?

Final Verdict: Play here if you enjoy a PGA-level challenge with stunning scenery and meticulously maintained greens. Skip if you prefer a more forgiving course, as beginners might find it punishing.