Arizona Golf Authority AZGA Golf Course Buzz: This is basic golf on an executive course with few frills and some of the lowest green fees in the north Phoenix area. Paradise Valley Park, which was designed by Jeff Hardin and former PGA of America president Brian Whitcomb, opened in 1986 with a traditional design, relatively flat terrain and generally hard surfaces, which translates to lots of run-out on most shots.
The par-61 layout has three sets of tees at 4,145, 3,789 and 3,404 yards, with a rating of 52.9 and slope of 88 from the back tees. There is just one par-5 hole, the ninth, which plays at 475 yards. The course has five par-4s with the longest at 335 yards and the shortest at 288, and the par 3s range from 113 – 212 yards.
The finish is the most demanding part of the round as water comes into play on the last two holes. A lake guards the left side of the par-3 17th, which plays at 150 yards and the par-4 18th, at 327 yards, features a menacing pond along the left side of the fairway. The course has a handful of bunkers but they aren’t prominent obstacles.
Paradise Valley Park doesn’t serve up many challenges for the low-handicapper, but works great for less-experienced golfers, short hitters and those looking to work on short- and mid-iron play. Natural grass driving range facilities are provided, along with a putting green and chipping practice area, and a small grille with refreshments available.