Pgt34

This course is a lot of fun to play. The only problem, it is desert target golf and you need to know where to hit the ball because it has a ton of blind shots and dog legs. The Palmer course can be tight in areas as well. I've played here twice and both times, I finished the round wondering why I hit driver. The Palmer course tempts you into taking risks which really penalize you if you don't execute. Being that I'm a 14 handicap, I execute the risky shot maybe 1 out of 4 times. I like courses that the par 5's can be reachable, the Palmer course has those type of holes. It also has par 4's in which you ask your partner "is this a par 5"? My main complaint is last time we played, they punched the greens. This wasn't told to us until the starter was giving us our direction. It made for a horrible round because the greens were so wet and sandy that it was impossible to putt. When I brought it up with the starter he just walked away. I get it, you have to punch the greens. Courses punch the greens at the same time every year. I would have stayed closer to home had I known. Also, lower the price during that week as it makes a huge difference.

This might be my favorite course in Phoenix. After the first round, I signed up for an Arcis card. The practice facility at the Raven is top notch. Huge range with a nice chipping area. The course is a blast to play and always seems to be in very good shape. Here's the catch, it's not a desert course. If you're traveling here and want to play an Arizona style course, this isn't it. The owner flew in a bunch of Georgia Pines. While you won't think you're in the desert, you can look up and see the mountains. The course is fun as it has a lot of risk reward holes. I also like the fact that if you're spraying the ball, there is a good chance you'll find your ball. I've played here a bunch and every time the pace of play has been good. For pure value, the Raven is tough to beat. If you're coming out for a golf trip, I'd suggest adding it to the list as a change of pace.