McDowell Mountain Golf Course Review Chandler AZ

Nestled in the majestic foothills of the McDowell Mountains in Scottsdale, Arizona, Sanctuary Golf Course at Westworld provides a spectacular golf setting. The course’s eco-sensitive layout takes advantage of the natural terrain and vegetation, mixing native wetlands and cattails with saguaro cacti, ironwood and mesquite trees. Built in 1999 on the western slope of Scottsdale’s McDowell Mountains and adjacent to the nationally recognized Westworld equestrian center, Sanctuary is more than a stunning golf course.

Acclaimed golf course architect Randy Heckenkemper transformed the Bureau of Reclamation’s storm water retention area into a 6,624-yard, par-71 layout that provides a haven for native plants and wildlife. Sanctuary at Westworld is the first golf course in Arizona, and the 17th course in the world, to attain the coveted Audubon Signature Status. While friendly to the environment, Sanctuary is an entertaining challenge that demands intelligent course management at every hole. Although total yardage from each tee, at first glance, appears short, the course offers many challenges.

The Sonoran desert’s native quails, roadrunners and jackrabbits watch quietly as you play on the rolling terrain of the Sanctuary Golf Course. After the sun sets brilliantly to the west, deer and wild coyote come out to play on Sanctuary’s 6,650-yard, par-71 layout that features nearly 80 acres of turf and 65 sand bunkers. Bordered by naturally protected areas, holes 2, 3, 4 and 5, demand precision and smart golf management.

Designer: Randy Heckenkemper

Year Opened: 1999

Awards: Want to be known as “Phil Mickelson Golf Property”

Practice Facilities: Driving range, putting green, practice bunker

Range Balls Included: No – $5 for 20 balls, $15 for 60 balls, or $20 for 90 balls

19th Hole: Mesquite Grill on site for food and beverage.

1 -10 Course Rating by Meridian’s Golf Specialists: 7

The Drive: About a 5 – 10 minute drive