Lakes ~ Golf ~ Hiking

Horseshoe Reservoir (also known as Horseshoe Lake) is located inside the Tonto National Forest and one of the most remote lakes in the region. The lake is known for recreation opportunities and is ideal for anglers looking for a quiet lake with one of the best fish nurseries in Arizona. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are strongly recommended for travel in this area. Horseshoe Lake feeds its water to Bartlett Lake just below it to the south.

In 1962, architect Robert “Red” Lawrence carved the course from existing desert landscape, and this environmentally “all natural” setting remains today the hallmark of the course, with desert characteristics proudly and beautifully displayed for the discerning eye to see and the dedicated golfer to appreciate. From virtually everywhere on the golf course, the Sonoran Desert vistas are breathtaking.

Desert Forest is passionate about the condition of its golf course, the talent of its staff and the experiences of its members. Amenities include a wide range of exceptional golf services; a delightful patio; a dining room and bar and some of the best views in the region.

Offering members the world’s largest collection of private Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses, Desert Mountain defines unparalleled championship desert golf like no other.

Each course provides an individual playing experience at all skill levels. Dramatic elevation changes–from the 2,700-foot Renegade course to 3,400-foot Outlaw–rolling fairways, impeccable course conditions and far-reaching views of metro Phoenix-Scottsdale distinguish Desert Mountain’s 108 holes from other desert courses. Nowhere can you find a collection of courses that will keep players uniquely challenged in each round.

When architect Rees Jones created the golf course at the Legend Trail Golf Club, he created a course that brings out the Old West-style air of Scottsdale and a fun and testing course with greens made of bent grass. Panoramas include local sites such as Pinnacle Peak and the McDowell Mountain range.

Legend Trail features broad fairways, diminutive bunkering and tees placed on islands, and has been called one of the Top 100 golf courses by Golf Magazine. The magazine also gives Legend Trail 4.5 stars out of five among its Best Places to Play and has one of the Top 100 Woman-Friendly fairways, according to Golf for Women magazine.

Rancho Manana Golf Club is located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert in historic Cave Creek, Arizona. Featuring a Scottsdale area par 70, this championship course boasts dramatic elevation changes and unspoiled desert terrain. This stunning, high desert course invites you to match your skills against nature while enjoying the unparalleled and unforgettable surrounding desert. It’s an experience that truly represents golf in the Arizona desert.

The Club’s amenities include an 18-hole, championship golf course, a full-length driving range, practice chipping and putting greens, fully stocked golf shop, locker rooms, and a full-service restaurant.

Situated in North Scottsdale just minutes away from Carefree, members have unlimited year-round access to this private, member-owned golf club.

The facility offers a complete practice facility, including a two-sided driving range, two short game areas and three putting greens. On-site PGA professionals provide a variety of instruction options and custom club fittings. The Clubhouse features multiple dining venues, spectacular views, and culinary delights. A walker-friendly golf course and guest rates are available as well. Membership includes access to more than 200 Troon golf courses worldwide, including other private clubs through the Troon Prive’ and Troon Advantage programs.

Whisper Rock Golf Club is a 36-hole private facility in north Scottsdale. The mission of the Club is to provide the finest traditional golf experience possible. The Lower Course opened in February 2001, and was designed by PGA Tour player Phil Mickelson and architect Gary Stephenson. The course sits down in the desert amid lush natural washes and rolling desert topography, placing an emphasis on precise approach shots into intimate green complexes.

The Upper Course opened in January 2005, and was designed by renowned golf course architect Tom Fazio. This course sits on the north side of the property and is highlighted by the numerous rock outcroppings and dramatic mountain vistas. With a blend of national, seasonal and local memberships, Whisper Rock is committed to providing an outstanding golf experience.

The newest addition to Maricopa County’s Regional Parks System, the conservation area encompasses 2,154 acres of diverse, rugged upper Sonoran Desert and is located approximately 35 miles north of central Phoenix. The area offers over seven miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Designated for hikers and equestrians, some trails lead visitors to the adjacent Tonto National Forest.

The scenic conservation area encompasses 2,154 acres of diverse, rugged upland desert. It contains numerous archaeology sites and the remnants of early mining and ranching occupation. Several floral communities present in the conservation area provide a rich habitat for a diverse assemblage of wildlife.