With spectacular views of Four Peaks and 7,031 championship yards stretching across Sonoran Desert terrain, Verde River Golf & Social Club stands as one of Arizona's most impressive course transformations. When 1996 British Open Champion Tom Lehman redesigned this Rio Verde layout in 2016, he created a championship test that rewards strategic play while remaining accessible through seven tee box options.
Located just 20 minutes northeast of Scottsdale near Fountain Hills in the Trilogy at Verde River resort community, this par-72 course offers public tee times alongside resort amenities that rival private country clubs. The 30,000-square-foot clubhouse, multiple dining venues, and mountain vistas create an upscale golf experience at semi-private rates.
Tom Lehman's Award-Winning Redesign
Verde River Golf & Social Club's modern identity began with Tom Lehman's "wholesale re-envisioning" during summer 2016. Originally designed by Ken Kavanaugh in 2006 as Vista Verde Golf Course, the property operated under different names before Shea Homes acquired it for their Trilogy brand.
Lehman's renovation focused on strategic enhancements rather than cosmetic changes. He recaptured natural arroyos that had been filled in, redesigned every green complex for more interesting pin positions, and added bunkers that frame fairways and protect greens. Perhaps most importantly, he rerouted several holes to showcase sight lines toward Four Peaks, Superstition Mountains, and Weaver's Needle.
Course Details: Seven Tee Box Options
| Tee | Yardage | Men's Rating/Slope | Women's Rating/Slope |
|-----|---------|-------------------|---------------------| | Gold | 7,031 | 73.1 / 139 | — | | Players Combo | 6,730 | 71.6 / 133 | — | | Silver | 6,516 | 70.4 / 129 | 77.2 / 136 | | Silver-Copper | 6,294 | 69.2 / 125 | 75.7 / 134 | | Copper | 6,001 | 68.0 / 119 | 74.3 / 130 | | Forward Combo | 5,573 | 65.8 / 113 | 72.1 / 125 | | Teal | 5,077 | 63.2 / 109 | 69.1 / 121 |
Pros
- Tom Lehman championship design with spectacular views
- Seven tee options accommodate all skill levels
- 30,000-square-foot clubhouse with multiple dining venues
- Full resort amenities: spa, fitness, pools, racquet sports
- Public access while transitioning to private
- GPS-equipped carts included in green fees
Cons
- Semi-private transitioning to private (public access may become limited)
- 20 miles northeast of central Scottsdale
- Green fees not published online - call for rates
- 48-hour cancellation policy enforced
- Walking not permitted
The Social Club Experience
Verde River Golf & Social Club embraces the "social club" concept rather than traditional country club exclusivity. The 30,000-square-foot clubhouse opened in 2017 as the hub of the Trilogy at Verde River community.
Dining Options
- Needle Rock Kitchen & Tap: Full-service restaurant with views overlooking the course and Four Peaks
- Eddy's Poolside: Casual bar and grill adjacent to the resort pool
Resort Amenities
- Alvea Spa - Full-service spa treatments
- Afturburn Fitness - State-of-the-art fitness facilities
- Resort Pool and Lap Pool
- 3 Tennis Courts and 8 Pickleball Courts
- Culinary Studio and Art Loft
- The Outfitter - Rental hub for kayaks, paddleboards, bikes
Booking Tee Times and Access
Verde River operates as a semi-private course currently transitioning toward private status. Public golfers can book tee times up to 60 days in advance while membership goals are being met.
- Advance Booking: 60 days for public players
- Reservation Requirements: Credit card required; 48-hour cancellation policy
- Peak Season: January through March sees highest demand
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (January - March)
Winter offers ideal golf weather with daytime temperatures in the 60s-70s°F. Book the full 60 days in advance for preferred times.
Shoulder Season (October - December, April - May)
Excellent conditions with lighter crowds and potentially lower rates.
Summer (June - September)
Lowest rates and most open tee sheets, though you'll be playing in extreme heat. Early morning tee times essential.