1.  Instagram vs. Reality – ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)

The photos don't lie, especially the panoramic views from the 10th tee and the back nine's cliffside drama. What you see online is very much what you get in person, though a few course condition blemishes keep it from being flawless.

2. Clubhouse/Pro Shop Vibes ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

The pro shop has been ranked among the Top 100 in the country, and the staff is top-tier in hospitality. The Pointe in Tyme restaurant is solid for post-round drinks and meals, though it does lack some polish compared to other upscale resort options.

3. Greens Personality  ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)

The large Bermuda greens can be smooth and true when in peak condition, but I have seen some spots where it was patchy or bumpy, particularly in off-seasons. Slope tends to be subtle but sneaky, often back-to-front.

4. Fairway Forgiveness  ⭐⭐⭐ (3.5/5)

The front nine offers wide fairways and a welcoming resort feel, but the back nine takes no prisoners. Once you hit the elevated canyon stretch, wayward shots are punished hard by desert brush and steep drop-offs.

5. Pace of Play Reality   ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)

One of the course’s standout strengths. Morning rounds especially flow beautifully, and staff keeps the tee sheet running smoothly. Sub-4.5 hour rounds are the norm here.

6. Snack Shack Score  ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)

Limited options mid-round mean you should come prepared with your own snacks or stock up before teeing off. This doesn’t match the resort-level expectations.  I did enjoy the Sea Salted Pretzel though.

7. Signature Hole Swagger ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)

The 10th hole, with a 175-foot drop from tee to fairway, is pure adrenaline. Add in a well-guarded green and sweeping mountain views, and this hole delivers, both as a visual masterpiece and a strategic test.

8. Scorecard Survivability    ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)

Breaking 90 here depends heavily on how you survive the back nine. The front lulls you into confidence, but the back strikes with elevation, blind shots, and canyon carries. High handicappers: bring balls and humility.

9. Best Par 3    ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)

Hole 11, known as The Snake Pit, is a dramatic one-shotter from a cliffside perch to a narrow target with desert on all sides. It’s beautiful, terrifying, and unforgettable. One of the best short holes in the Valley.

10. Wallet Worthy ⭐⭐⭐⭐(4.5/5)

With a Troon Card, this is a great value. But, even at full rack rate, you’re getting mountain golf with a side of resort treatment, and few other Phoenix options can offer that combo.

11. Brag-Ability Bucket List    ⭐⭐⭐(3/5)

Lookout is one of the few Phoenix-area tracks where you’ll pull out your phone just to film your tee shots. It’s not world-famous, but among locals and return visitors, it holds legit bragging rights.