Top 10 Golf Courses in New Mexico: Discovering the Best Fairways in the Land of Enchantment
New Mexico, known for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse terrain, offers a unique golf course collection that blends challenging play with stunning views. From the high desert terrain to the lush fairways in the valleys, New Mexico’s golf courses provide a memorable experience for avid and new golfers. Here’s a look at the top 10 golf courses in New Mexico, each offering a distinctive blend of challenge, beauty, and unforgettable golfing experiences.
1. Paa-Ko Ridge Golf Club (Sandia Park)
Paa-Ko Ridge Golf Club in Sandia Park is widely regarded as the best golf course in New Mexico and one of the top courses in the country. Designed by Ken Dye and opened in 2000, Paa-Ko Ridge features 27 holes set amidst the stunning backdrop of the Sandia Mountains.
The course offers a challenging layout with dramatic elevation changes, wide fairways, and fast, undulating greens. Each hole is designed to take full advantage of the natural terrain, providing a unique and scenic golfing experience. Paa-Ko Ridge has hosted numerous state championships and consistently ranked among the top public courses in the United States.
2. Black Mesa Golf Club (La Mesilla)
Black Mesa Golf Club in La Mesilla is a public course designed by Baxter Spann and opened in 2003. Known for its unique and challenging layout, Black Mesa offers a desert-style golfing experience with dramatic elevation changes, natural rock formations, and rugged terrain.
The course features wide fairways, large greens, and numerous natural hazards that require strategic shot-making. Black Mesa has received numerous accolades, including being ranked among the best public courses in the country. The course’s combination of challenge, beauty, and natural surroundings makes it a must-play for golfers visiting New Mexico.
3. Twin Warriors Golf Club (Santa Ana Pueblo)
Twin Warriors Golf Club in Santa Ana Pueblo is a public course designed by Gary Panks and opened in 2001. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Sandia Mountains, the course offers a challenging layout with wide fairways, large greens, and numerous bunkers.
Twin Warriors is known for its excellent conditioning and stunning views, particularly on the back nine, where several holes offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and desert. The course has hosted several notable tournaments, including the PGA Professional National Championship, further solidifying its reputation as one of the top golf courses in New Mexico.
4. UNM Championship Golf Course (Albuquerque)
UNM Championship Golf Course in Albuquerque is a public course designed by Red Lawrence and opened in 1967. It is set on the campus of the University of New Mexico and offers a challenging layout with tree-lined fairways, large greens, and numerous bunkers.
UNM Championship is known for its excellent conditioning and challenging layout, making it a favorite among local golfers and visitors. The course has hosted numerous state and regional tournaments, including the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Golf Championships. The history, challenge, and location make it a standout in New Mexico’s golf scene.
5. TPC New Mexico at Zia Park (Hobbs)
TPC New Mexico at Zia Park is a private course designed by Tom Weiskopf and opened in 2005. The course offers a challenging and enjoyable round of golf with wide fairways, large greens, and numerous natural hazards.
TPC New Mexico is known for its excellent conditioning and stunning views, particularly on the back nine, where several holes offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The course’s combination of challenge, beauty, and top-notch facilities makes it a favorite among serious golfers in the Hobbs area.
6. Pinon Hills Golf Course (Farmington)
Pinon Hills Golf Course in Farmington is a public course designed by Ken Dye and opened in 1989. It is set in the scenic high desert of northwestern New Mexico and offers a challenging layout with wide fairways, large greens, and numerous natural hazards.
Pinon Hills is known for its excellent conditioning and stunning views, particularly on the back nine, where several holes offer panoramic views of the surrounding desert and mountains. The course has been consistently ranked among the top public courses in the United States, making it a must-play for golfers visiting New Mexico.
7. Inn of the Mountain Gods Golf Course (Mescalero)
Inn of the Mountain Gods Golf Course in Mescalero is a public course designed by Ted Robinson and opened in 1975. The course is set in the beautiful Sierra Blanca Mountains, offering a unique golfing experience with rolling terrain, lush forests, and natural water hazards.
The course features narrow fairways, large greens, and numerous bunkers that require strategic shot-making. The stunning mountain views, challenging layout, and resort-style amenities make Inn of the Mountain Gods a favorite among golfers visiting southern New Mexico.
8. Red Hawk Golf Club (Las Cruces)
Red Hawk Golf Club in Las Cruces is a public course designed by Ken Dye and opened in 2011. The course offers a challenging and enjoyable round of golf with wide fairways, large greens, and numerous natural hazards.
Red Hawk is known for its excellent conditioning and stunning views, particularly on the back nine, where several holes offer panoramic views of the Organ Mountains. The course’s combination of challenge, beauty, and affordability makes it a popular choice among golfers in southern New Mexico.
9. Rockwind Community Links (Hobbs)
Rockwind Community Links in Hobbs is a public course designed by Andy Staples and opened in 2015. The course offers a unique links-style golfing experience with wide fairways, large greens, and numerous natural hazards.
Rockwind is known for its excellent conditioning and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among local golfers and visitors. The course’s combination of challenge, beauty, and community focus makes it a standout in New Mexico’s golf scene.
10. Santa Fe Country Club (Santa Fe)
Santa Fe Country Club is a semi-private course designed by Steve Butler and opened in 1946. It offers a classic parkland-style layout with tree-lined fairways, large greens, and numerous bunkers.
Santa Fe Country Club is known for its excellent conditioning and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among local golfers and visitors. The course’s combination of history, challenge, and affordability makes it a must-play for golfers visiting the capital of New Mexico.
Conclusion
New Mexico’s top golf courses offer diverse experiences, from the high-desert beauty of Paa-Ko Ridge to the mountain serenity of Inn of the Mountain Gods. Each course on this list provides a unique blend of challenge, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences, reflecting the state’s rich golfing heritage and commitment to excellence. Whether you’re playing in the shadow of the Sandia Mountains or amidst the rugged terrain of the high desert, New Mexico’s golf courses promise an unforgettable experience.
References
- Paa-Ko Ridge Golf Club: Official Website
- Black Mesa Golf Club: Official Website
- Twin Warriors Golf Club: Official Website
- UNM Championship Golf Course: Official Website
- TPC New Mexico at Zia Park: Official Website
- Pinon Hills Golf Course: Official Website
- Inn of the Mountain Gods Golf Course: Official Website
- Red Hawk Golf Club: Official Website
- Rockwind Community Links: Official Website
- Santa Fe Country Club: Official Website
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