Discovering a top-tier golf experience can be a delightful surprise, especially when it’s found in an unexpected location. Elephant Rocks Golf Course, nestled conveniently near the iconic Grand Canyon, offers just that – a fantastic golfing escape that rivals courses in more typically acclaimed golf destinations. For those venturing near the majestic landscapes of Arizona, a tee time at Elephant Rocks is an absolute must.
Course Layout and Design
Elephant Rocks Golf Course presents a unique and enjoyable layout, seamlessly blending woodland and links-style holes. The initial stretch of the front nine guides you through tree-lined fairways, demanding precision and strategic play. As you progress, the course opens up into meadow-style holes, offering wider fairways and breathtaking panoramic views. The course then transitions back into a forested environment, providing a diverse and visually stimulating round. Golfers are treated to spectacular vistas, with the distant mountains of Williams and Flagstaff adding to the scenic beauty. While many holes are straightforward in design, the varying widths of the fairways ensure that each hole presents a unique challenge and keeps golfers engaged. Notably, the par distribution is somewhat unconventional, with the front nine featuring only one par 5 and one par 3, while the back nine boasts three of each, ultimately balancing out to a par 72.
Exceptional Course Conditions
The commitment to maintaining excellent course conditions is evident throughout Elephant Rocks. The tee boxes are consistently level and well-covered, providing a solid starting point for each hole. While the yardage options are limited to 6600, 6000, and 5400 yards, they cater to a range of golfer preferences. The fairways are a standout feature, boasting a carpet-like texture and a vibrant light green hue. Although minor instances of overwatering were observed in a few areas, these were negligible and did not detract from the overall exceptional fairway quality. The rough presents a more significant challenge, with a 3-inch depth that can make ball retrieval tricky, especially near the towering pine trees where wild grasses further complicate matters. The greens are a highlight, running exceptionally fast and smooth, reportedly at a 12+ stimpmeter reading. Despite their speed, they remain receptive to well-executed shots, allowing for confident approach play. Interestingly, the sand traps feature a unique volcanic sand from nearby mines. While they were noted as being wet, they were surprisingly soft and playable.
Practice Facilities and Amenities
Elephant Rocks Golf Course provides adequate practice facilities to prepare for your round. The driving range, while not exceptionally long at 240 yards and playing downhill, serves its purpose. However, adjusting to the 6000+ feet elevation may require some initial adjustments to accurately gauge distances. Golf carts are available and in good condition, although they are not equipped with GPS navigation. A beverage cart service is available, with a friendly cart girl observed on the back nine.
Value and Overall Experience
Priced at $83 for a Sunday morning tee time, Elephant Rocks offers exceptional value, particularly when compared to comparable courses in California and Arizona’s valley regions. The pro shop staff are commended for their exceptionally welcoming and helpful demeanor. Their enthusiasm for the course and willingness to share tips and insights enhances the overall experience. The pace of play is also noteworthy, with a comfortable round completed in under 4 hours on a Sunday morning, ensuring an enjoyable and efficient golfing experience.
Conveniently Located Near the Grand Canyon
One of the most compelling aspects of Elephant Rocks Golf Course is its strategic location. Situated just one exit off I-40 from the main road leading to the Grand Canyon, it presents an ideal golfing opportunity for those visiting this natural wonder. Whether you’re planning a dedicated golf trip or seeking a memorable round during your Grand Canyon exploration, Elephant Rocks is easily accessible and highly recommended.
In conclusion, Elephant Rocks Golf Course is a true gem in Arizona’s golfing landscape. Its diverse layout, excellent conditions, friendly service, and convenient location near the Grand Canyon combine to create a truly memorable and highly recommended golfing experience. For golfers seeking a top-quality round in the Grand Canyon region, Elephant Rocks Golf is a must-play destination.
