McDowell Mountain Course
Scottsdale, AZ, USA

Embedded in the foothills of its namesake mountain in Scottsdale, McDowell Mountain Golf Club offers a contemporary desert golf experience rooted in Southwestern hospitality. The course's original design, crafted in the late 1990s, unfolds across the arid landscape, presenting generous fairways framed by indigenous flora. Strategically placed bunkers and subtly contoured greens reward thoughtful play, while the natural undulations of the terrain contribute to a challenging, yet fair test. Its openness favors golfers who can shape shots in the desert winds. Architects Randy Heckenkemper and Mike Poellot collaborated to shape the original routing, and later renovations refined the course's character. While McDowell Mountain has not hosted major championships, it has quietly become a favorite among locals and visiting golfers seeking an unpretentious and accessible experience. The club atmosphere reflects its surroundings: relaxed and welcoming. Post-round, members and guests gather at the clubhouse, known for its panoramic views and casual dining, creating a vibrant social hub. It is also known to be a club where many business deals get brokered. McDowell Mountain doesn’t court the spotlight, content to offer a solid, enjoyable golf experience within a community that appreciates its laid-back style and the stunning desert scenery.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Unranked
Best in USA
Unranked
Best in AZ
Public: #51
7.3
60 players
Was very fun and easy but had some of the coolest views that I have seen in Scottsdale
Nothing special. The 10th hole and 18th hole the entire hole is filled with balls from the range. So you can imagine how that goes
Public courses closest to McDowell Mountain.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
McDowell Mountain has a Course Vaults score of 7.3 out of 10 based on 23 explicit golfer ratings.
McDowell Mountain was designed by Randy Heckenkemper.
Yes. McDowell Mountain is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at McDowell Mountain is 71.
McDowell Mountain plays 7,072 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at McDowell Mountain is 137.