One of the coolest golf experiences in the world is the Mena House Oberoi Golf Club in Egypt, because you actually get to play a round with the Great Pyramids as a backdrop. It might not get any cooler than that, but it also makes a creative golfer think about what other wonders would look cool from the course. The Grand Canyon would certainly make for an amazing viewing experience, so long as you can avoid slicing your ProV1 balls into the depths of this natural marvel.
Obviously, that will never happen (we hope), and the good news is there are so many phenomenal courses throughout Arizona, so you won’t have to put too many miles on your rental car to get to and from the Grand Canyon and the best golf options in the Copper State. The question, of course, is how far are you willing to travel to play, without sacrificing time for unbridled adventure and exploring the vast natural beauty — not to mention the amazing food and exceptional culture found throughout the various cities.
Fortunately, for both convenience and enjoyment of the game, some of the closest courses are also among the best choices anywhere in the region, including options in both Arizona and Utah. With ease of travel and time limitations in mind, let’s consider this trio the “must-play” of the pack, and all the rest can simply fill in the itineraries for your second and third visits.
Elephant Rocks Golf Course
Located less than an hour from the Grand Canyon, in the town of Williams, Elephant Rocks Golf Course is a great choice for players of all experience levels — and history buffs as well, as it has existed since the 1920s. A 9-hole design for decades, it was first redesigned by Gary Panks in 1990, and then again in 2000 when he was brought back to expand it into a championship 18-hole course. He certainly had his work cut out for him, as the thrilling setting is what makes this destination so special.
At 7,000-feet above sea level, the experience will feel downright breathtaking, and it is also greener than anything you’d expect to find in Arizona. Elephant Rocks is framed by the mountains and pines, making it one of the most naturally rewarding golf choices in the state, and the management’s devotion to upholding the reputation means the condition is never a question, rewarding every level of player that visits.
Lake Powell National Golf Course
Just under two hours away from the Grand Canyon, located in Page, Arizona, Lake Powell National Golf Course might be the best choice for anyone whose travel focus is heavier on outdoor adventure, with a little golf sprinkled between. Not only do you have the most popular natural wonder to visit, but this region is also home to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend — aka the “east rim” of the Grand Canyon — another natural marvel that boasts one of the most incredible lookout spots you can imagine.
Opened in 1995, this William Phillips design is as fun as the views are scenic, which is why the social calendar here is jam-packed. Don’t be shocked to find locals competing in weekly events like charity scrambles and night games, but also don’t worry about crowded tee boxes. Between the friendly design and stunning views, this is as casual and mentally rewarding an experience as any golfer could want.
Continental Country Club
At just over an hour, the trip from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon is a breeze, especially if you’re racing back from a morning of enjoying inspirational views to get to your tee time at Flagstaff’s only public course. As challenging as it is lush, this Bob Baldock design boasts tranquility you’d typically expect to find in a remote resort setting, which is a remarkable feat for a community setting.
And that’s also the aspect that comes with a warning: You might not ever want to leave Continental Country Club and its surroundings. Between the Diamond Point Spa, multiple pools, and pickleball courts, there’s no wonder why this is a thriving destination for both visitors and people who’d like to stay a long, long time.
