Troon North - Monument Course

Troon North's Monument Course opened in 1990, designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish at the base of Pinnacle Peak in North Scottsdale. It was the first of two courses (the Pinnacle followed in 1996) and helped establish the standard for upscale desert golf.

The course was built around massive granite boulder formations millions of years old. Weiskopf and Morrish routed the layout to incorporate these natural features, creating holes framed by ancient rock, towering saguaro cacti, and native desert washes.

Troon North became one of the first courses managed by Troon Golf, which grew into the largest golf management firm in the world. The Monument Course ranks consistently among the top public courses in Arizona.

The Monument Course is the definitive desert golf experience, weaving through massive granite boulders, towering saguaros, and native desert washes beneath Pinnacle Peak. At 7,070 yards with a slope of 145, it is a serious test. Desert terrain means target golf — balls missing the fairway find hardpan, rocks, and cacti making recovery difficult.

Greens are well-conditioned with subtle desert contours. The visual drama is extraordinary, with nearly every hole framed by the Sonoran Desert landscape.

Stay on the fairway. Desert golf is target golf and balls in native areas are often unplayable. Take one less club off the tee if needed. Desert washes crossing several fairways require careful distance calculation.

Morning tee times are recommended to avoid afternoon desert heat. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.