8.9
92

Forest Highlands Golf Club (Canyon)

ARCHITECTS

Course info

ACCESS
Private
EST.
1986
GRASS
Bentgrass
SEASON
April–October
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
?
CADDIES
Available
Unknown
Type
Parkland
Unknown
Par
71
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10.5
City
Flagstaff

Score

8.9
Design
40%
9.0
Conditions
25%
9.1
Desirability
15%
8.8
Scenery
10%
8.7
Fun
5%
8.6
Uniqueness
5%
8.1

Difficulty

Overall
Hard

Slope 134

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10.5

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Low

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
$
$
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

The Canyon Course has regularly appeared on lists of America’s Top 100 Greatest Golf Courses and is ranked as Arizona’s top private course by Golf Magazine.

About

Forest Highlands Canyon Course, designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish in 1986, is a celebrated private course nestled in the world’s largest Ponderosa pine forest near Flagstaff. Widely regarded as one of Arizona’s premier golf experiences, the par-71 course stretches over 7,000 yards and is famed for its challenging design, mountain scenery, and exclusive club amenities.

Caddie Tip

Stay disciplined with club selection off the tee; elevation changes and swirling mountain winds can mask distances. Approach shots demand careful consideration of green contours and pin placements, especially on the back nine where undulating greens and well-placed hazards challenge even experienced players. Accurate drives are rewarded, but errant shots into the pines can quickly escalate your score.

The Main Challenge

The Canyon Course’s greatest challenge lies in its elevation changes and strategic bunkering among thick pines. Fast, undulating Bentgrass greens test putting skills, while narrow landing areas demand accuracy off the tee. The mountain setting also brings unpredictable winds that can complicate club selection on approach shots, especially on the finishing holes.

The Good

Golfers consistently praise the Canyon Course for its spectacular setting among towering Ponderosa pines, offering a true mountain golf experience. The variety and challenge of each hole, combined with serene vistas and a peaceful atmosphere away from city bustle, make every round here memorable and enjoyable for players of all skill levels.

The Not So Good

While the course is celebrated for its condition and layout, guests sometimes note that play can get slow during peak summer days. Additionally, the private nature means access is limited, and non-members cannot play unless invited, which can be frustrating for those eager to experience its reputation.

Signature Hole:

#

18

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The 18th hole, a par 4, is a memorable finishing hole framed by towering pines and dramatic elevation changes. Its strategic layout demands a precise tee shot to a narrowing fairway, followed by an approach that must negotiate bunkers and natural contours to find a challenging green set against the scenic backdrop of the high country.

Clubhouse

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Canyon Course features a spacious clubhouse with upscale dining, locker rooms, lounge areas, a pro shop, and event spaces. Additional amenities include a fitness center, swimming pools, tennis and pickleball courts, spa services, and extensive family recreation facilities, all set within a tranquil private community.

Practice Facilities

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The club offers comprehensive practice areas, including a full driving range, short-game greens, and putting greens. Instruction from PGA professionals is available. Members also enjoy access to additional practice holes and advanced training technology to enhance all aspects of their game.

Dress Code:

Standard

No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.

Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.

Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.

Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.

Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.

Arizona
U.S.A.