Don't let the first hole of Sunridge Canyon Golf Club fool you. This is a challenging golf course. Even the shortest holes on this golf course require thought. If you have never played here before, you will need to keep a close eye on the GPS system that is provided on each cart.

The starting hole is a short 318 yard par-4. Accuracy should be your main concern off of this tee. If youre a long hitter you might want to pull an iron out of the bag on this tee. It can be tempting to try and drive the green but the landing area is extremely narrow and might not be worth the risk. This hole can be a birdie with a well placed approach shot from the fairway. You will have another opportunity to drive a par-4 on the back nine.

This golf course is surrounded by Saguaro Cacti that grow in the desert areas around the golf course. These plants are distinctive to this area and create a unique atmosphere that cant be found in any other part of the country.

One of the amazing things about the golf courses in Arizona is the consistent golf course conditions you find. This golf course is no exception. In an area that has limited water resources, the grounds crew keeps this golf courses green, soft and in great shape. The greens at Sunridge Canyon were very smooth and, depending on where the grain was, they could be fast. I would compare these greens to those found in Florida.

The rest of the front nine is pretty straight forward. The holes are medium length and will provide some good scoring opportunities for the aggressive golfer. Take advantage of the par-5s as they are great for shooting a low score.

Most of the holes on the back nine will play uphill. This is where the golf course starts to get real tough. The 10th hole is one that the longer hitters can take advantage of. Depending on where the tee is located, if you go for the green the worst you can expect to have is a relatively easy bunker shot into a narrow green.

The back nine also requires a few more forced carries than the front nine. For me one of the hardest holes on the golf course was the par-3 14th hole. From the back tees this hole plays 181 yards. It doesnt seem like a very long hole but when you consider the water hazard that hugs the entire right side of the green, the shot becomes extremely difficult. If you miss the ball even slightly right, it will find the water. The left side of the green is guarded by a bunker and a severe slope that will propel balls into the desert. This could be the make-or-break hole on the back nine.

The finishing hole is a par-4 that goes uphill back toward the clubhouse. A solid tee shot is required to have a middle iron into this bunkered green. As you stand on the last green youll know that either you or the golf course will have won the day. Take in the breath-taking views of the Arizona landscape.

If you have time during your visit to Arizona go and play Sunridge Canyon Golf Club.