Raven Golf Club Phoenix

Overview

When over 6,000 mature pine trees line the fairways of a Phoenix golf course, you know you're experiencing something different. Raven Golf Club Phoenix defies the typical desert golf stereotype, offering a lush, tree-lined experience that feels transported from the Carolinas.

Designed by PGA Tour player David Graham and acclaimed architect Gary Panks, The Raven opened in 1995 after a massive earth-moving project that transformed the South Mountain landscape into rolling fairways carpeted with pine needles—a genuine anomaly among Arizona courses.

Value Proposition: Peak season rates ($200+) position this as a special-occasion course, but savvy golfers target summer months when the same championship layout costs $55-$65. Despite summer heat, course conditions remain excellent year-round, and the included range balls sweeten the deal. The Arcis Players Card offers 20%+ off posted rates across eight Phoenix-area courses, making it a smart investment for regular players.

What Makes Raven Golf Club Unique

Carolina Golf in the Desert

The moment you step onto the course, you'll notice The Raven doesn't look like typical Arizona golf. Instead of saguaros and desert scrub, you're surrounded by towering Georgia pines creating tree-lined corridors reminiscent of East Coast courses.

This wasn't natural—designers moved 800,000 cubic yards of earth and brought in truckloads of pine needles to create authentic Carolina-style conditions. The result is a course that offers both the aesthetic appeal of traditional parkland golf and the dramatic elevation changes of desert mountain courses.

The Championship Layout

Course Details

Measuring 7,078 yards from the championship tees with a 73.2 course rating and 132 slope, The Raven provides a stern test for accomplished players while remaining enjoyable from the forward tees. The Bermuda fairways are well-maintained, and the TiffDwarf greens are consistently praised for their speed and trueness.

The course features dramatic elevation changes that create both visual interest and strategic challenges. Several holes offer panoramic views of South Mountain and the Phoenix skyline—scenic distractions that can affect club selection if you're not careful.

Playing Conditions by Season

Peak Season (January-April): Course is in tournament condition with firm fairways and fast greens. Expect rates of $180-$229, but conditions justify the premium. Tee times book weeks in advance.

Summer (May-September): The same championship layout at $55-$65. Morning tee times (starting at 6:00 AM) beat the heat, and course conditions remain excellent despite lower rates. This is where The Raven truly shines from a value perspective.

Shoulder Season (October-December): Pleasant temperatures with moderate pricing ($90-$140). Often overlooked by visitors but a favorite among locals who know the weather is ideal.

World-Class Practice Facilities

The Raven's practice center rivals any in the Phoenix area. The driving range features grass hitting areas and distance markers that help you dial in yardages. Dedicated short game areas include bunker practice, pitching zones, and chipping greens that mirror on-course conditions.

PGA teaching professionals are available for private and group lessons, and the golf academy offers programs for players of all skill levels. If you're working on your game, arriving early for a practice session is time well spent.

Awards & Recognition

The Raven has earned impressive accolades since opening:

• Golf Digest: 4.5 stars
• Arizona Magazine: #5 Golf Course in the State
• Guest Service: #1 in North America
• Golf Advisor: #9 Top Courses in Arizona (2024 Golfers' Choice)

These aren't marketing claims—they reflect consistent quality in course conditions, guest experience, and overall value.

Amenities & Services

Pro Shop & Equipment

The fully-stocked pro shop offers premium golf apparel, equipment, and accessories. Club rentals are available for travelers, and all golf carts come equipped with GPS for accurate yardage information.

Grill 36 Restaurant

The on-site restaurant serves breakfast and lunch daily, with happy hour Monday-Friday from 3:00-6:00 PM. The patio offers views of the course and South Mountain—an ideal spot to decompress after your round. Call (602) 243-9172 for restaurant reservations.

Event Facilities

The air-conditioned wedding and event pavilion overlooks the 18th hole, making The Raven a popular venue for corporate tournaments, weddings, and special events. Banquet facilities accommodate groups of various sizes.

Dress Code

Collared shirts and Bermuda shorts are required. No denim permitted on the course. This is standard for upscale public courses and helps maintain the premium atmosphere.

Planning Your Visit to Raven Golf Club

Getting There

Located at 3636 E Baseline Rd in Phoenix, The Raven sits just five miles south of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in the shadows of South Mountain. This convenient location makes it an excellent option for golf travelers flying into Phoenix.

From Scottsdale, expect a 30-35 minute drive via AZ-101 Loop and I-10. The course provides ample parking.

Best Times to Play

For Value: Summer mornings (May-September) offer the same championship layout at fraction of peak prices. The 6:00 AM opening time lets you finish before extreme heat.

For Conditions: January through March delivers perfect weather and tournament-quality course conditions, though you'll pay premium rates.

For Crowds: Weekday mornings during shoulder season (October-December) offer the best combination of weather, value, and pace of play.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Raven Golf Club a public course?

Yes, Raven Golf Club Phoenix is a public course open to all golfers. Tee times can be booked online or by calling (602) 243-3636. No membership required, though the Arcis Players Card offers discounts for frequent players.

How much does it cost to play at Raven Golf Club?

Green fees range from $55-$229 depending on season and day of week. Summer rates (May-September) start around $55-$65, while peak season (January-April) can reach $229. Twilight rates and special packages are available. Some packages include pro shop and dining credits. Call the clubhouse for current pricing.

What are the hours for Raven Golf Club?

The course operates 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, though hours may vary seasonally. The Grill 36 restaurant serves breakfast and lunch daily, with happy hour Monday-Friday 3:00-6:00 PM. Call ahead to confirm specific hours, especially during holiday periods.

Can you walk at Raven Golf Club Phoenix?

Yes, walking is permitted at Raven Golf Club Phoenix. The mountain-slope setting creates elevation changes that make it a challenging walk, but the pine-shaded fairways offer relief from direct sun. Most players opt for GPS-equipped carts, which are included in the green fee.

Where is Raven Golf Club located in Phoenix?

Raven Golf Club is located at 3636 E Baseline Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85042, in the shadows of South Mountain. It's approximately five miles south of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and about 30 minutes from Scottsdale's resort corridor.

What makes Raven Golf Club unique compared to other Phoenix courses?

The Raven's defining characteristic is its tree-lined, Carolina-style layout—a complete departure from traditional desert golf. Over 6,000 mature pine trees line the fairways, creating a lush, parkland atmosphere unusual for Phoenix. Designers moved 800,000 cubic yards of earth to create rolling terrain and imported truckloads of pine needles for authentic East Coast aesthetics.

Final Thoughts

Raven Golf Club Phoenix proves that desert golf doesn't have to mean saguaros and rocky carries. The unique pine-lined layout offers a refreshing alternative to traditional Arizona courses, while maintaining the dramatic mountain views and elevation changes that make Phoenix golf special.

Whether you're seeking a bucket-list experience during peak season or hunting for exceptional value during summer months, The Raven delivers championship golf with award-winning service. The #1 Guest Service ranking isn't just talk—you'll notice the difference from check-in to your final putt.

Book your tee time at (602) 243-3636 or visit ravenphx.com to experience Carolina golf in the Arizona desert.

Research Sources

• Official Website: ravenphx.com - Verified course details, amenities, designer information
• GolfPass: Course Profile - Verified specifications, awards, historical details
• Yelp: Business Listing - Verified contact information and hours
• GolfNow: Tee Time Booking - Verified pricing and availability
• Local Green Fees: Course pricing verification and seasonal rate ranges

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