Del Lago Golf Club

Vail, Arizona

Tucson golfers greatly appreciate the natural beauty of a high course that rests at an elevation of 3,400 feet - five degrees cooler than Tucson during the summer. del Lago Golf Club serves as the centerpiece of Rancho del Lago, a master-planned community located about 20 minutes from downtown Tucson off Interstate 10.With 120 feet of elevation change, the club`s 1st hole begins at the highest point, then plays down into the valley, coming to the back nine, which runs along the Pantano Wash. The course winds its way through the hills and valleys of the high desert, with spectacular and unique views of the backside of the Rincon Mountains and the Santa Catalinas. Except for the 1st hole, which has the course`s only forced carry, del Lago is golfer-friendly off the tees. Let the more skilled players play the back tees, which at 7,206 yards, carry a rating of 73.9 and a slope of 135. Par is 72.The greens are Tif Eagle, a Bermuda hybrid, while the fairways are Bermuda in the summer and overseeded rye in the winter. Seven lakes at del Lago come into play on six holes, affecting a variety of shots: some drives, several approaches - just enough to put a little spice into the round. Strong bunkering around the greens adds to the challenge. It all ends with a tough uphill par-4, 421-yard finishing hole that has water in play for two shots.The clubhouse includes a full-service pro shop and bar & grill, and green fees are also golfer-friendly, considering the quality of the course. del Lago has one of the biggest - if not the biggest - practice facilities in the area, including a driving range, a practice bunker, and a 12,000 square foot practice green.