Desert Highlands
The original 'target' desert golf course — legendary status in Arizona golf
About the Course
Desert Highlands holds a sacred place in golf history as the course that launched desert golf as we know it. When Jack Nicklaus designed this groundbreaking layout in 1983, he pioneered the concept of 'target golf'—where players aim for specific landing areas amid the natural desert landscape rather than playing along continuous fairways. The course winds through pristine Sonoran Desert at the base of Pinnacle Peak, with each hole framed by towering saguaros, ancient boulders, and native vegetation. The routing is strategic and demanding, but fair, and the views are simply spectacular. This is where the legends of desert golf began, and it remains one of the most respected private clubs in Arizona.
Designer
Jack Nicklaus
Yardage
7,099
Slope
147
Par
72
Course Gallery
Key Highlights
- Where desert golf began
- Jack Nicklaus' 1983 masterpiece
- Original target golf concept
- Legendary status in AZ golf
- Stunning Pinnacle Peak setting
Club Features
- Pioneered target golf concept
- Pristine desert preservation
- Pinnacle Peak backdrop
- Historic significance
- Challenging strategic layout
- Exclusive membership
Course Statistics
Year Opened
1983
Holes
18
Course Rating
74.3
Guest Policy
Member Accompanied
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