Whether you live in the desert or you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway, golf will most definitely be on your “to-do” list. One such golf course we’ve recommended before and will do again is Desert Falls Country Club.
COURSE OVERVIEW
Desert Falls Country Club provides 360 degrees worth of spectacular views from snow capped mountain tops to the desert floor. This 18-hole championship golf course was designed by renowned international course designer Ron Fream to be a links-style course for every type of golfer. Whether walking or riding you’re sure to find an enjoyable round of golf with challenging and beautiful golf holes. Desert Falls Country Club is a semi-private club which allows the public to come and enjoy all 7,000 yards and aim at the par of 72. There are five tee placements on each hole so everyone in your group can enjoy!
SIGNATURE HOLES
There are three signature holes at the course that pull together the elements to create excellent golf. The par-3 No. 14 is among the toughest in the desert with its massive 18,000-square-foot green (the largest green west of the Rocky Mountains) and, in essence, three greens in one. The 9th is a tricky par 5 that can tempt longer hitters into going for the green in two over the lake. The 18th, with its shared lake to No. 9, is a demanding par-4. At 437 yards, more sand and water protect the green.
EXPERIENCE REVIEW
Getting to the club is relatively easy as it’s simply off of the I-10 freeway and Cook Street exit with only one quick left turn onto Country Club Drive. If you know the desert well it’s basically kitty corner to the Desert Springs JW Marriott. Upon entering the property you drive up a beautiful Palm Tree lined driveway with ample parking in front of the club house. Insiders tip – they have great coffee and excellent tuna sandwiches! You may think I’m crazy but something about golf course tuna sandwiches are unparalleled! The pro shop is downstairs in the building and they have a great variety of men’s and women’s gear and apparel. The staff is beyond courteous and helpful as well as the head professional, Jennifer Dammeyer. The driving range is down the path just north of the pro shop and it has ample space so you won’t be standing in line waiting for a slot. Between that and the club house is a very large putting green, chipping green, and practice sand trap. Not just a flat surface, the practice area gives you some good warm up opportunities. The club has recently adopted the use of plastic tees due to their durability and provides you with those, ball markers, score cards, and pencils of course. You’re free to use your own tees but it’s a nice touch to provide a great option! Each cart comes with a cooler and there’s a water/ice machine near the cart barn before hitting the course.
During your round you’ll be challenged by different styles of holes – from water hazards to be mindful of and tricky shots that will test your “should I lay up or not” mental thoughts. I found that there are some definite local knowledge pointers regarding laying up, where to target your shot, a false front on a green, and one hidden green from the fairway. One of the par 3’s is also surrounded by water which makes for a fun challenge. This golf course is perfect for all levels of skill and each tee location can create a totally different round each time played.
Other insider tips – bring a ball retriever for the water (you may need it or you may find it for someone who left one behind) and definitely bring a camera. The scenery is beautiful and there is even a spot on the course (between the 5th green and 6th tee box) that is consider the highest point on the desert floor.
THINGS TO KNOW
Desert Falls Country Club is a semi-private course so expect many of the players on course to be members. Dress code is enforced, so please keep that in mind when planning your round.
FOR TEE TIMES
Ready to play? Go ahead and call for a tee time at 760-340-5646. The driving range opens at 5:30 a.m. and the golf shop opens at 6:00 a.m. Have fun!
