Arizona National Golf Club

If you want to experience true desert golf in Tucson with big mountain views and dramatic shot values, Arizona National Golf Club is one of those “must-play” rounds. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the course winds through the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, with natural washes, saguaro cacti and rugged desert slopes framing almost every hole. It is a classic risk reward layout: generous landing areas if you pick the right line, but plenty of trouble if you get greedy.

The course plays to a par 71 and offers a mix of elevated tees, uphill approaches and doglegs that reward smart strategy as much as pure distance. Many holes look out over Sabino Canyon and the Tucson skyline, especially in the golden light of early morning or late afternoon. It is a photogenic round – golfers often stop on tee boxes just to take pictures.

Arizona National is located on the northeast side of Tucson, about 25–30 minutes from downtown, in the Sabino Greens area. From central Tucson, you simply head east toward Sabino Canyon and follow the signs towards E Sabino Greens Drive; ride-shares and rental cars can reach the club easily.

Before your round you can loosen up on the driving range, putting green and short-game area, then check in at the fully stocked pro shop for balls, gear or rental clubs. Buggies (carts) are available and recommended in the desert heat, and there is on-site bar and restaurant service for snacks, lunch and post-round drinks on the terrace with mountain views. The club also offers lessons and coaching if you want to tune up your game while you are there.

Whether you are in Tucson for a golf trip, a winter escape or just passing through Arizona, Arizona National Golf Club gives you a proper desert championship experience – big scenery, bold architecture and the feeling of playing right up against the mountains.