Scottsdale Guys trip April/May '18

[Scooter McGavine]

Next year will be year eight for a guys trip I plan every year. This year we had 16 but we're looking to plan for 20 next year. We know wee going to go in the April/May timeframe and I'm looking fire guidance from anybody spoiling to give it. In that timeframe when should we go based on course conditions, weather, costs, etc.

 

And are there any specific courses that we absolutely must play (4 or 5 rounds in 4 days)? We have handicaps ranging from 5 to 28.

 

Cheers!!!

[az2au]

Mid April is pretty safe for perfect around here most years but that also means it is expensive. On the bright side it is less crowded than March as we lose the Spring Training crowds. May is warmer and the course conditions won't be quite as good but also brings occasional deals for a group like years and we start to move into the 0% chance of rain days (in April it may be more like 5% :) ). If money is less of a concern then you go with April IMO.

 

Course advice is all over this subforum but if you want a quick view I'd look at page 1 here: http://www.golfwrx.com/forums/topic/179150-traveling-to-phoenixsome-course-info-for-you/

 

We all debate it a bit but OPB does a good enough job that any differences are personal preference and thus not something you'd alter yourself without experience.

[txeconomist]

The later you go the cheaper and hotter it will be (both could be significant). Im not a native, but Ive played 50+ rounds in PHX in the last 2 years and generally agree with OPB's list above. If you play any of the top 9 courses he lists you'll be happy with them. I personally like Grayhawk the best in general as it has two really good golf courses (maybe not the best) but everything else (service, atmosphere, food, facilities, etc) is awesome IMO. Best place for a 36 hole day.

[teejaywhy]

Early May would bring somewhat lower rates and still decent weather especially with morning tee times.

[One_Putt_Blunder]

The later you go the cheaper and hotter it will be (both could be significant). Im not a native, but Ive played 50+ rounds in PHX in the last 2 years and generally agree with OPB's list above. If you play any of the top 9 courses he lists you'll be happy with them. I personally like Grayhawk the best in general as it has two really good golf courses (maybe not the best) but everything else (service, atmosphere, food, facilities, etc) is awesome IMO. Best place for a 36 hole day.

 

While I ranked courses strictly on the merit of the design itself. It would be hard to beat Grayhawk if you include all the amenities, service and vibe. Grayhawk is the only golf course wife and I go hang out at for dinner and drinks. Helps that it is 5 min from home but still a great place to hang out. Raptor would be higher but the new 15-17 are not great mostly because 16