COYOTE LAKES GOLF CLUB ( 623-566-2323)
Arizona Golf Course Review 2/21/05 photos updated Nov, 2008
Short but Sweet! This is an appropriate description for the Coyote Lakes Golf Club, which is one of my
sentimental favorites in Arizona. This was the very first course I played in Arizona, on recommendation of a golf
director at a club in Michigan - some 15 years ago. It was beautiful then, and it is even better now!
At just 6159 yards from the tips, many golfers would consider this too short a course to play. At $55 including
cart prime time in 2005 however - I would call this one of the best golfing values in the state. Though not long, the
extremely rolling, sloping, undulating nature of this course is a drawing card. Beautiful mountain views, interesting
hole designs with consistent elevation changes from tee to green, plus good conditioning have created a loyal
following - which includes myself. The rock wall guarding the green complex (actually about 70 yards in front of
the green) on the par five 6th is an example of the creativity used to design this layout (pictured below). The back
nine, using the natural slope of the land, is extremely interesting, featuring frequent shots with the ball located above or below your feet.
Water plays a prominent role on some holes - particularly on the back side...though the hazard that rests to the
right of the sloping fairway on the par four second is devious in its best moments. Five holes on the finishing nine
have water in play - with the par five 13th the most memorable of the group. The fairway narrows as one
approaches the putting complex, with the hazard lurking on the second and third shots. There are only a few
dozen sand bunkers on the course, but these traps were recently renovated with soft sand that often rests below deep lips - making them formidable in nature.
On property at Coyote Lakes is a serviceable clubhouse which houses a pro shop and snack area that serves
great hot and cold sandwiches, soups, snacks and beverages. Practice facilities include three putting/chipping
greens, plus a short range in which Caymen golf balls are utilized - balls that fly controlled distances. There is no
room for a full range - but this method works, and is another example of the creativity used to make the most of the land here.
The four sets of tees play to yardages measuring 6159, 5742, 5286 and 4708 yards. Accuracy and finesse- not
power, are elements that need to be displayed if one is to shoot his/her handicap here. Keep it in play and good
scores can be had. There are some opportunities to grip it and rip it - for those that need to exercise their
gonads (or other parts). This is a fun - and highly recommended golf experience - and can be a confidence builder! For more info, visit our page for the course by clicking here.
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