Wigwam Golf Club (Gold)

The Gold Course at Wigwam Golf Club in Litchfield Park, Arizona is widely regarded as the resort’s crown jewel and one of the best public golf experiences in the Phoenix area. Originally designed by Robert “Red” Lawrence in 1965 and later updated by Forrest Richardson, the course blends classic desert golf with a traditional parkland feel. Located just west of downtown Phoenix, Wigwam offers a laid-back resort atmosphere that makes it popular with both traveling golfers and local weekend players looking for a polished but fair test.

Unlike many target-style desert layouts in Arizona, the Gold Course gives you room off the tee — but it still demands accuracy. Fairways are generous in spots, yet smart bunkering and strategic angles reward thoughtful positioning over simply swinging hard. The greens are typically in excellent shape and roll smooth, but subtle slopes can make two-putting more challenging than it first appears. Weekend golfers will appreciate that while the course can stretch past 7,400 yards from the tips, there are multiple tee boxes that make it very manageable and enjoyable for average players.

The front nine offers a comfortable rhythm with a mix of reachable par 5s and mid-length par 4s that allow you to build confidence early. As the round progresses, the course shows more of its teeth. The back nine features stronger finishing holes, including long par 4s that require two well-struck shots to reach in regulation. Water hazards and deep bunkers come into play at key moments, especially when you’re trying to protect a good score. The finishing stretch feels every bit like a championship layout, but it never feels unfair.

What sets the Gold Course apart is how balanced the experience feels. It’s challenging without being punishing, scenic without being gimmicky, and polished without feeling stuffy. For the typical weekend golfer visiting Arizona — or locals wanting a dependable, high-quality round — the Gold Course at Wigwam delivers a classic desert golf experience that you’ll want to play more than once.