Mountain Shadows Resort in Paradise Valley, Arizona is home to The Short Course— a 12-hole par-3 course that has become one of Scottsdale's most popular golf experiences since the resort's 2017 renovation. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Camelback Mountain with Mummy Mountain views, it's the most scenic executive course in the Phoenix metro and a legitimate bucket-list experience for visitors who want a memorable round without a full-day commitment.
Mountain Shadows Green Fees: 2026 Pricing
| Time | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Morning (Peak Season) | ~$99 | Dec–Apr, before noon |
| Afternoon / Twilight (Peak) | ~$69 | Dec–Apr, after 1pm |
| Summer Rate | ~$49 | Jun–Sep, all day |
The Short Course plays approximately 90 minutes for 12 holes. Walking only — no carts. Resort guests receive priority booking. Book through Mountain Shadows Resort directly.
Scottsdale Area Courses with Published Pricing
| Course | Weekday 18 | Weekend 18 | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paradise Valley Golf Course | $29 | $31 | 3.3 ★ |
| Ken McDonald Golf Course | $53 | $68 | 4.1 ★ |
| Apache Wells Country Club | $90 | $95 | 4.5 ★ |
| We-Ko-Pa Golf Club | $109 | — | 4.6 ★ |
| TPC Scottsdale Champions Course | $120 | $150 | 4.5 ★ |
| TPC Scottsdale PGA | $195 | $245 | 4.7 ★ |
Verified from course websites · Showing 6 courses with published pricing · Verify before booking
What Is The Short Course at Mountain Shadows?
The Short Course is a 12-hole par-3 layout designed by Tom Lehman and John Fought during the Mountain Shadows Resort renovation. Holes range from 50 to 165 yards, playing through manicured Bermuda grass fairways with direct sightlines to Camelback Mountain on nearly every hole. The signature 7th plays directly toward Camelback's red rock face.
It's a legitimate golf experience — not a mini golf course or pitch-and-putt. Proper golf attire is expected, real greens are maintained to resort standards, and the course plays to a par 36. Many Scottsdale regulars play it as a warm-up before a full round or as a standalone afternoon activity during multi-day golf trips.
Is Mountain Shadows Open to the Public?
Yes — The Short Course at Mountain Shadows is open to outside play when not fully committed to resort guests. Tee time availability is best on weekday afternoons. Weekend and morning slots during peak season tend to book out. Book directly through the Mountain Shadows Resort website or call the golf shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mountain Shadows golf green fees in 2026?
The Short Course at Mountain Shadows runs approximately $99 for peak-season morning rounds, $69 for afternoon/twilight during peak season, and $49 all-day during summer. Walking only — no carts.
How long does The Short Course at Mountain Shadows take to play?
Approximately 90 minutes for 12 holes walking. There are no carts on The Short Course. The compact layout makes it ideal for a half-day golf experience or warm-up session.
Is Mountain Shadows open to outside players?
Yes — The Short Course accepts outside play on a space-available basis. Resort guests receive priority. Book directly through the Mountain Shadows website. Best availability on weekday afternoons.
Where is Mountain Shadows in Scottsdale?
Mountain Shadows Resort is at 5445 E Lincoln Dr, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253 — at the base of Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley, about 10 minutes from Old Town Scottsdale and Arcadia.
Is The Short Course a real golf course?
Yes — it's a 12-hole par-3 course maintained to full resort standards with real greens, real turf, and proper golf etiquette required. Holes range from 50 to 165 yards. It's a legitimate golf experience, not a novelty pitch-and-putt.