One More Jewel in 7’s Crown! Our 18-Hole Par 3 Golf Course in Links magazine.

What’s green, packed with fun, and presents a challenge all within just a couple of acres? It’s the new wave of short courses cropping up in top golf communities across the country, and Desert Mountain is right at the forefront of this trend.

Recently, LINKS Magazine highlighted No. 7 at Desert Mountain in their article “Short Courses at Golf Communities Are on the Rise,” recognizing its significant role in the growing popularity of non-traditional golf courses across the nation.

Transforming Challenges into Opportunities

About six years ago, Desert Mountain found itself with a little dilemma—a little plot of land that didn’t seem to fit anywhere. John Lyberger, the Director of Golf at Desert Mountain, shares a bit of the backstory.

“The club owned this small, odd-shaped parcel and we really didn’t know what to do with it,” Lyberger explained. “Eventually, we followed our business model, which said the time and place was right for a par-54 championship course, a different option from our six Jack Nicklaus championship courses. When golf exploded in the pandemic, it did so here, and so did home sales. People are still clamoring to buy in the Seven community.”

This previously underutilized plot would soon be transformed into the pinnacle of golfing innovation with the introduction of No. 7 at Desert Mountain, a par-54 championship short course.

A New Jewel in the Golfing Crown

This 3,004-yard masterpiece, crafted by Desert Mountain members and seasoned designers Bill Brownlee and Wendell Pickett, opened its greens in 2019 and quickly ascended to become a crown jewel among golf enthusiasts. Its creation was influenced by the duo’s previous work on Li’l Wick at Wickenburg Ranch, another exceptional short course. No. 7 offers an exhilarating challenge for serious golfers while remaining accessible and enjoyable for beginners and families, blending the best of both worlds. It includes four holes over 200 yards, undulating greens, and sandy stretches, demanding precision and strategy.

A Course for All Golfers

Ranked sixth among America’s top short courses, No. 7 exemplifies the innovative shift in golf course design that prioritizes variety, accessibility, and enjoyment. It caters to a wide range of golfers, from scratch players to families looking for a casual and engaging game.

“There’s length, sand, mounds, and undulating greens for the scratch golfer,” says Lyberger. “Yet, if you want to bring your grandchildren out and play the No. 4 tees, there are 11 holes where you could literally putt off the tee and roll it right down the fairway and onto the green. It’s a mini version of a bigger course, but one that novices can enjoy. It’s a wonderful walk, too, which is encouraged by design. We have 98 different golf groups up here on the Mountain and a good number of them are requesting to play here, which is a validation of their enjoyment and their experience at No. 7.”

The Evolution of Short Courses 

Short courses like No. 7 at Desert Mountain are becoming essential components of golf communities, celebrated for their ability to offer quick, enjoyable rounds that respect both the player’s time and the environment. Architects like Beau Welling, collaborating with Tiger Woods Design, have championed this movement, creating spaces that are inclusive and challenging for all skill levels.

As golf communities like Desert Mountain continue to innovate, the appeal of short courses is set to grow. They not only meet financial and real estate needs but also enhance the golfing landscape, providing all players—from beginners to seasoned pros—an opportunity to enjoy the game in a new, refreshing format. No. 7 at Desert Mountain is a vibrant, community-centric activity that promises fun, challenges, and a unique golfing experience. As we look to the future, it’s clear that these engaging, versatile courses will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of golfers and golf communities.

Explore the Many Privileges of Membership at Desert Mountain

Dive into a world where premier golf, exceptional amenities, and a vibrant community lifestyle await you. Explore membership opportunities and discover the exclusive benefits of calling Desert Mountain home.

When you purchase a new home at Seven Desert Mountain and your application for membership is approved, you skip the waitlist to join the legendary Desert Mountain Club.