Black Desert Golf Course: Luxury Meets Lava on a Tom Weiskopf Masterpiece

by | Jul 31, 2024 | Where to Play

Black Desert Resort emerges from the striking red rocks and ancient black lava fields of southern Utah, providing more than just a golf course—it offers an unparalleled experience. Picture your swing framed by breathtaking cliffs, with each hole meticulously crafted by esteemed architects Tom Weiskopf and Phil Smith. This extraordinary destination is a golfer’s dream, a lavish retreat, and your entry point to the untouched beauty of Greater Zion National Park, all beautifully woven together into one unforgettable adventure.

A Visionary Project

More than 20 years ago, a dedicated group of investors and visionaries recognized the limitless potential of the remarkable landscape and imagined the creation of Black Desert Resort. The journey truly commenced in 2021, with the swift development of the golf course and its related amenities.

In May 2023, the resort officially opened for play after overcoming numerous challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions. The launch of the golf course was met with widespread acclaim, receiving glowing reviews from golfers and industry experts.

This breathtaking course, carved from ancient lava fields and set against red rock mountains, stands as Tom Weiskopf’s crowning achievement—a renowned member of the World Golf Hall of Fame. Scheduled to host The Black Desert Championship this fall, it will be the first PGA TOUR event in Utah in over 60 years; with an LPGA Tour event planned for 2025, this destination is swiftly becoming a favorite in the golf world.

Black Desert Golf: An Unforgettable Experience

Black Desert Resort is a stunning oasis carved from the ancient lava fields of Southern Utah. It offers a golfing experience that is as distinctive and dramatic as its environment. The course is a masterpiece of contrasts, with vibrant emerald fairways meandering through rugged black volcanic rock, all set against the striking backdrop of fiery red sandstone cliffs.

This 19-hole, 7,200-yard championship course is a golfer’s dream, thoughtfully designed to balance playability with challenge. Generous fairways and strategically placed landing areas cater to all skill levels, ensuring an enjoyable round for both seasoned pros and weekend warriors. However, don’t be fooled by the forgiving fairways; the course presents plenty of strategic challenges. Elevation changes, cleverly placed bunkers, and the ever-present lava rock add an exciting twist to traditional golf strategy, demanding precision and creative shot-making.

The Holes You Won’t Soon Forget

Hole #1

Serves as a dramatic introduction to this unique course. It’s a medium-length par 4 that plays slightly downhill, offering stunning elevated views of the surrounding landscape and the black lava fields that define this unique golfing destination. Playing Hole #1 sets the tone for the rest of the round, showcasing the course’s dramatic scenery, challenging layout, and unique integration of the natural landscape.

Hole #5

A microcosm of the Black Desert Resort experience: a beautiful, challenging hole that rewards strategic play and punishes recklessness. It’s a hole that will leave a lasting impression on every golfer who takes it on. A drivable par 4 between 280 to 350 yards inviting players to go for the green in one shot. However, danger lurks on both sides. A large bunker guards the front left of the green, while lava rock and desert scrub await errant shots to the right. A well-placed tee shot is crucial to set up a birdie opportunity, but the risk of a bogey or worse is always present for those who miss the mark.

Hole #14

A thrilling risk-reward par 4 that presents a unique challenge and opportunity for golfers of all levels. A drivable par 4 measures between 297 to 326 yards and features a wide fairway that slopes downhill towards the green, tempting players to go for it in one shot. However, danger lurks in the form of a strategically placed bunker on the left side of the fairway and a lava field to the right. A well-placed tee shot is crucial to set up a birdie opportunity, but the risk of finding trouble off the tee is high.

Hole #17

This par 3 demands precision and a delicate touch. It measures between 83 and 151 yards, but don’t let the short distance fool you. The hole features a small, undulating green surrounded by treacherous lava rock. Any shot that misses the green will likely find trouble, making accuracy and club selection paramount. The green itself slopes from back to front and is protected by a bunker on the left side, further complicating matters.

Hole #18

Serves as a dramatic and challenging conclusion to your round. It’s a long par 5 that can be a real beast, especially when the wind picks up. The hole stretches from 511 to 573 yards and plays uphill towards the clubhouse. The fairway is relatively generous off the tee, but a creek that runs across the fairway about 275 yards out requires a well-placed layup shot. The second shot presents a decision: lay up again or go for the green in two. Those attempting to reach the green in two will have to carry their shot over a large bunker guarding the front right of the green. The green itself is large and undulating, with a false front that can easily repel short approaches.

Black Desert Forecaddies: Elevating Your Golf Experience

The complimentary forecaddie program enhances the golf experience. Each group is accompanied by a knowledgeable forecaddie who provides valuable insights and assistance throughout the round. They’ll track your ball flights, offer accurate yardages, read the greens, and help maintain a steady pace of play, allowing you to focus on your game and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

With their expert knowledge and friendly demeanor, Black Desert’s forecaddies are an integral part of the overall golfing experience, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable, and informative round for all players.

Black Desert Golf Resort: Managed by the Leaders in Golf Hospitality

Troon Golf, a renowned leader in golf and hospitality management, has been entrusted with the management of Black Desert Golf Resort in Utah. This partnership brings Troon’s expertise in golf course operations, hospitality, and guest services to this unique and challenging course, ensuring a world-class experience for all visitors.

Coda

Black Desert Resort, a breathtaking fusion of golfing challenge and luxurious desert escape, is redefining what it means to experience a golf getaway. With its championship course designed by the late Tom Weiskopf, stunning natural beauty, and commitment to world-class service through its partnership with Troon Golf, Black Desert has quickly cemented itself as a premier destination for golfers and luxury travelers alike.

Whether you’re drawn to the unique challenge of playing amidst lava fields and red rock canyons, seeking a luxurious retreat with unparalleled amenities, or simply eager to explore the natural wonders of southern Utah, Black Desert Resort offers an experience that transcends the ordinary.

It’s more than just golf—it’s an adventure, a test of skill, and an immersion into the heart of Utah’s dramatic landscape. With its future expansions promising even more luxurious amenities and living options, Black Desert is a destination worth keeping on your radar.

Photos courtesy of Briar Oar.

 

 

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OnCoreGolf

About the Author

<a href="https://golfonemedia.com/author/alan_darty/" target="_self">Alan Darty</a>

Alan Darty

Alan is the founder and publisher of Golf One Media and the former publisher of eSouthernGOLF—a second-generation Florida native who loves all things Florida. You can usually find him with his wife, watching their two daughters coaching volleyball at Oviedo (FL) High School or Mississippi State University when he's not golfing, hunting, or fishing.