Course Overview

Inspired by legendary designer Donald Ross’ insight that the opening hole should ease players into their round, the course at El Rio Golf Club begins with a reasonably easy first hole that affords opportunity to begin your round with a
birdie.

Hole 2 is El Rio’s number one handicap for a reason. A 467-yard par 4 from the tips, your tee shot must negotiate a right dogleg over trees while avoiding a large bunker on the left. A lengthy approach to an undulating green awaits you should you escape trouble off the tee.

This par 3 is another good chance for a birdie if winds are calm. A straight-forward hole, the large green is defended by two bunkers that are spaced generously away from the green.

The longest hole at El Rio, this par 5 hole is protected by several bunkers as well as desert intrusions at several spots along its length.

A short par 3, this hole plays very differently depending on the wind. If you miss the green with your tee shot, you still have opportunity to save par with a good chip.

Don’t let the mountain views distract you at this par 5. A misplaced drive can send your ball into trouble with desert flora. A generous landing area for your second shot can set you up for a comfortable wedge approach.

Be careful with your tee shot set-up. The tee box alignment at hole 7 favors your drive to head in the direction of bunkers to the right of the fairway.

Hole 8 is the first hole at El Rio where you will encounter a water hazard. With bunkers left of the green and water nestled closely on the right and behind, the approach shot will challenge your nerves and ability.

Your drive will take you over water off the tee to a narrow fairway landing that is protected on the right by another water hazard that parallels the fairway the entire way to the green.

After two demanding holes to finish the front nine, hole 10 offers you a bit of respite. Late afternoon views of the sun-drenched Black Mountains will add excitement to your approach shot.

Hole 11 is a long and straight par 4 that is protected by sand traps on the left and right. A two-tiered green will test your putting touch.

A long hitter can reach this par 5 in two if you avoid bunkers with your drive. The green is not trapped so you can let your second shot rip for a chance at an eagle.

At 477 yards from the tips, this par 4 is a monster. Add a little wind and this hole can play like a par 5. Only one sand trap protects the green making a long-approach shot more manageable.

With spectacular views of the Spirit Mountains located directly behind the green, this par 3 sets up differently from each tee location. Hole 14 might be your last birdie opportunity of the round.

Hole 15 demands a perfect drive to avoid bunkers on the left and right. Your approach shot doesn’t get any easier as the green is well protected by sand traps on two sides.

Hole 16 is a long par 3 with an undulated green similar to that of Augusta Nationals’ famed 16th hole.

A 554-yard par 5 from the tips, hole 17 will challenge your ability to negotiate around an expansive waste bunker and a waterfall-fed lake along the entire left side of the fairway.

The course at El Rio Golf Club finishes with a lengthy par 4 hole. A well-bunkered fairway will penalize stray shots, and your approach will require great precision to avoid the lake on the left side of the green.

Discover the ultimate practice paradise at El Rio Golf Club’s driving range. Hone your swing on our complimentary targeted range, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas and vibrant sunsets that inspire every shot. Elevate your game in a serene desert oasis where relaxation meets precision.