The Boulders
34631 N. Tom Darlington Dr., Carefree, Arizona, 85377
The Boulders Scorecard
| Front 9 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | OUT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Par | 5 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 36 |
| Black | 513 | 195 | 548 | 404 | 425 | 142 | 347 | 356 | 417 | 3,347 |
| White | 381 | 135 | 360 | 384 | 525 | 345 | 155 | 435 | 384 | 3,104 |
| Handicap | 5 | 18 | 4 | 10 | 2 | 16 | 12 | 8 | 14 | — |
| Back 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | IN | TOT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Par | 4 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 36 | 72 |
| Black | 451 | 445 | 525 | 457 | 183 | 483 | 424 | 220 | 424 | 3,612 | 6,959 |
| White | 481 | 150 | 517 | 375 | 400 | 133 | 338 | 350 | 347 | 3,091 | 6,195 |
| Handicap | 1 | 9 | 5 | 3 | 15 | 13 | 7 | 17 | 11 | — | — |
Tees, Slope & Course Rating
| Tee | Slope | Course Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Black | 138 | 73.3 |
| White | 134 | 70 |
The Boulders by the Numbers
The Boulders plays to a par of 72 and measures 6,959 yards from the black tees (6,195 yards from the white tees). The layout features 4 par-3s, 10 par-4s and 4 par-5s. The number-one handicap hole is the par-4 10th — statistically the toughest hole on the course, while the 2nd rates as the most forgiving. The longest test is the 3rd, stretching 548 yards from the tips, and the shortest is the 2nd at 195 yards.
About The Boulders
The Boulders is a challenging 18-hole course that stretches from 6,195 yards from the forward tees to 6,959 yards from the back. It's designed as a par 72, providing a varied experience that tends to favor strategic shot-making over sheer power. Players can choose between black and white tees, each offering a different feel and challenge. With desert grass types lining the fairways and greens, players will find both firmness and roll, making careful club selection essential throughout the round.
What to Expect
When you tackle The Boulders, expect a course that blends beauty with difficulty; a mid-handicap golfer will find it both manageable and rewarding, but lower handicappers will appreciate the nuances. The sloped terrain offers some tricky lies, so be prepared for uneven footing that can test your skills, especially on approach shots. Pay attention to hazard placement; these can catch the unwary, and be mindful of how the desert flora can affect your ball flight. Overall, remember to enjoy the scenery as you navigate this stunning layout.
Fun Fact
Did you know that The Boulders was once a favorite practice ground for professional golfers? It has hosted various tournaments and has been a training stop for those honing their skills in the beautiful Arizona sun.
About Carefree
Carefree, Arizona, is known for its striking desert landscapes and small-town charm. With a population just shy of 4,000, this peaceful community offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. From art galleries to unique shopping experiences, Carefree captures the essence of Arizona's rich cultural spirit.
Nearby Attractions
After your round, consider stopping by the Carefree Desert Gardens, a lovely spot to explore unique desert flora and enjoy a leisurely stroll. For dining, try the popular Café Boulud, which offers a refined menu featuring both local and seasonal ingredients. If you’re looking for a place to stay, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is just a short drive away and provides a luxurious retreat with excellent amenities.