Gainey Ranch Golf Club golf course
4.7

Gainey Ranch Golf Club

About This Course

With panoramic views of the McDowell Mountains and 27 holes designed by Michael Poellot and Bradford L. Benz, Gainey Ranch Golf Club ranks among Scottsdale's most prestigious private golf destinations. Three distinct nine-hole courses - Lakes, Dunes, and Arroyo - combine into three unique 18-hole experiences, each showcasing a different facet of Sonoran Desert golf.

Important: Gainey Ranch is a PRIVATE club. Access is limited to members and guests of the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort & Spa.

The Three Courses at Gainey Ranch

Lakes Nine: Parkland Elegance

Clubhouse with cascading waterfall feature and palm trees, Gainey Ranch Golf Club
Signature waterfall clubhouse at Gainey Ranch

The Lakes course delivers a resort-style golf experience with emerald fairways, sparkling water features, and the signature waterfall at hole nine. At 3,376 yards with a 125 slope rating, it's the most forgiving of the three nines.

Dunes Nine: Desert Challenge

Don't let the 3,238-yard distance fool you - the Dunes course packs a punch with its 130 slope rating, the highest of the three nines. Indigenous desert vegetation and strategic bunkering punish wayward shots.

Arroyo Nine: Power and Placement

At 3,424 yards, the Arroyo is the longest nine with a 128 slope rating. This course demands both power and precision, culminating in the infamous peninsular green at the ninth hole.

18-Hole Combinations

CombinationYardage (Gold)Slope (Men)Rating (Men)
Arroyo/Lakes6,80013072.3
Lakes/Dunes6,62912871.4
Dunes/Arroyo6,67713171.3

Pros

  • Three distinct nine-hole courses offer variety across 27 holes
  • top conditions maintained for private club members
  • McDowell Mountains backdrop
  • Access to Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort amenities
  • Extensive practice facilities with specialized instruction
  • Multiple dining venues including Crossroads, The Nest, and Barrel 41 Bar

Cons

  • Very limited public access (Grand Hyatt guests only)
  • High membership initiation fees ($100,001-$150,000)
  • Strict 48-hour cancellation policy
  • Green fees not publicly listed
  • Summer heat can be challenging

Access and Booking

For Grand Hyatt Guests

Island green with multi-level water features and palm-lined clubhouse, Gainey Ranch
Multi-tiered water features frame challenging island green
  • Contact Golf Concierge: (480) 444-1234 ext 5700
  • Tee times subject to availability
  • Guest rates not publicly listed - inquire when booking

For Membership Inquiries

  • Contact: (480) 951-0022
  • Managed by Invited (formerly ClubCorp)
  • Annual dues exceed $15,001

Club Amenities Beyond Golf

  • Practice Facilities: Full-length driving range, multiple chipping areas, several putting greens
Aerial view of clubhouse pool area surrounded by palm trees and golf holes, Gainey Ranch
Resort-style amenities integrate seamlessly with golf course
  • Dining: Crossroads Dining Room, The Nest, Barrel 41 Bar, Member's Grill
  • Additional: Tennis courts, fitness center, swimming pools, full-service pro shop

Best Time to Play

October-April (Peak Season): Ideal weather 60-80°F, highest green fees, book well in advance.

Palm tree grove courtyard with building entrance, Gainey Ranch Golf Club Scottsdale
Lush palm-lined entrance creates tropical oasis feel

May-September (Summer): Hot temperatures 95-115°F, significantly reduced rates, morning tee times essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gainey Ranch Golf Club open to the public?
No, Gainey Ranch is a private club. Public access is limited exclusively to guests staying at the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort & Spa.
How much does it cost to play Gainey Ranch Golf Club?
Guest green fees are not publicly listed. Membership initiation ranges from $100,001-$150,000 with annual dues exceeding $15,001.
What are the three courses at Gainey Ranch?
The three nine-hole courses are Lakes (3,376 yards, parkland style), Dunes (3,238 yards, desert style), and Arroyo (3,424 yards, longest nine).
Does Gainey Ranch Golf Club have a dress code?
Yes. No tank tops or cutoffs are permitted. Collared shirts, golf shorts or slacks, and appropriate golf shoes are expected.
Can you book tee times at Gainey Ranch Golf Club?
Yes, through phone (480) 951-0022 or Golf Concierge for Grand Hyatt guests (480) 444-1234 ext 5700. Note the strict 48-hour cancellation policy.

Nearby Courses & Guides

Course History

Built in 1985 on land that was once Daniel C. Gainey's Arabian horse ranch, Gainey Ranch Golf Club transformed this historic Scottsdale property into one of Arizona's most exclusive golf destinations. Designed by Michael Poellot (former chief architect for Robert Trent Jones Jr.) and Bradford L. Benz, the 27-hole layout showcases three distinct nine-hole courses - Lakes, Dunes, and Arroyo - each offering unique challenges amid the Sonoran Desert. Now managed by Invited (formerly ClubCorp), the club maintains its reputation for impeccable conditions.

Signature Holes

The Arroyo #9 features an infamous peninsular green demanding both courage and precision. The Lakes #9 provides a dramatic finish with a spectacular waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The Dunes course, with its challenging 130 slope rating despite being the shortest nine at 3,238 yards, requires accuracy off the tee and a gentle touch on undulating greens.

Pro Tips

Book tee times well in advance and note the strict 48-hour cancellation policy. The Arroyo/Lakes combination (6,800 yards, 130 slope) offers the most full 18-hole experience. If staying at the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale, contact the Golf Concierge at (480) 444-1234 ext 5700 to arrange your tee time. Summer rates across Scottsdale can be extremely low - consider pay-per-round options during hot months.