The Tom Weiskopf/Jay Morrish designed Pinnacle Course at Troon North Golf Club is the top-ranked course in all of Arizona, and #25 in the US according to GOLF Magazine’s 2016/2017 ranking. It is one of the key treasures of the Scottsdale golf scene. Natural desert foliage and cactus enclose a beautifully conditioned golf course. Boulders are a severe impediment just off the fairway. The Pinnacle Course is the second course at Troon North Golf Club. A separate article illustrates the Monument Course designed in 1990. We applaud the rerouting changes made in 2007 since you can now walk both courses. The Monument Course is forgiving with wide fairways, few tee shot carries and sloping green-side areas. The Pinnacle Course is more challenging.
One gets the immediate sensation you’re in for something special when you arrive at Troon North Golf Club is the enormous well-appointed practice range. The turf is lush. There are significant elevation changes. Many teeing areas are elevated providing magnificent desert vistas including the spectacular Pinnacle Peak. Unfortunately, some transmission power lines sometimes spoil the view. They narrow the fairways compared to Monument Course. It’s easy to lose balls in the desert.
The Par3’s are robust on the Pinnacle Course. Hole #8 is one of the coolest Par3’s you’ll find. At 182 yards from the center tees, it requires a shot over a ravine and a sizable boulder to a green with a large bunker and another stone guarding the right side. It’s a great visual.
The Signature Hole – The Pinnacle – Par4 Hole #10
You begin the back nine with a challenging Par4. The course gets its name from the pinnacle-shaped peak prominent in the distance behind the green. Hole #10 also illustrates some forced carries for tee shots. Even the forward tees may require tee shots of over 100 yards. It’s wise to select the proper tees for your ability for a satisfying experience. The Par3 Hole #16 is one of the prettiest holes on the course. Troon North Golf patterns this “Post Card” after the “Postage Stamp” Hole#3 at Royal Troon in the UK. With water in front, an elevated green and bunkers on all sides, an accurate shot is essential. Beautiful homes provide a picturesque backdrop.
The Pinnacle Course at Troon North Golf Club is a must play when you visit the desert. Golfers are always impressed.
See our other Southwest course profiles here.
