Elephant Rocks Golf Course
A visually stunning mountain golf course in Williams, AZ, famous for its unique rock formations and creative design.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Elephant Rocks Golf Course
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A visually stunning mountain golf course in Williams, AZ, famous for its unique rock formations and creative design.
"Amazing course and gorgeous view, I ended up going up to Flagstaff for a family vacation and business meetings."
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Popular course, especially in season. Secure your spot online or by phone well in advance!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The mountain terrain and natural landscape require good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Elephant Rocks
Throughout the course
Massive rock formations integrated into the landscape, offering unique challenges and stunning photo opportunities.
Scenic Mountain Layout
Entire course
A visually stunning course nestled in the mountains, providing breathtaking views with every swing.
Challenging Yet Fun Holes
Various holes
Creative course design that offers a fun and engaging experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Dress for Mountain Golf
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Popular course, especially in season. Secure your spot online or by phone well in advance!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The mountain terrain and natural landscape require good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Pack Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for temperature changes. :cloud:
🚗 Be Mindful of Dust
Cart paths can be dusty; consider your position in the group. :windblowingface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tee Times Early
Popular course, especially in season. Secure your spot online or by phone well in advance!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The mountain terrain and natural landscape require good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Pack Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for temperature changes. :cloud:
🚗 Be Mindful of Dust
Cart paths can be dusty; consider your position in the group. :windblowingface:
🐘 Admire the Rocks
The namesake elephant rocks are a unique feature; take time to appreciate them! :rock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Elephant Rocks Golf Course for its stunning natural beauty, unique rock formations, and creative course design. The friendly staff and well-maintained fairways and greens are frequently highlighted as positives. However, some guests have noted issues with dust from cart paths and a desire for more distance markers, as well as concerns about slow play management.
"Really nice Golf course located just off of I-40 in Williams arizona. Really like the location set back off the highway. Friendly staff inside the pro shop. Large driving range and putting green practice area. Courses laid out nicely. Very scenic. Fairways and putting greens or all in good shape. Definitely recommend playing this golf course"
Milton Hope
"The course was in good shape and the pro shop person was welcoming and friendly. However, it seems the course owners did not really want women playing the course as the women's tees on the par fives were very close to the white tees. The course could use more distance markers and a marshal to speed up slow play. We had a 3:10 tee time and a slow group in front of us. At 6:35pm the lone marshal came around and bellowed that we had 10 minutes. We were on hole 16. If the course is going to make everyone stop at 6:45pm, they should not have tee times past 2:45pm and there should be a marshal monitoring slower players. The elephant rocks were interesting."
Kim Swafford
"This is a wonderful little mountain course. It's a very short golf course, especially at this elevation, but the overall creativity and course design is very good. It's not a difficult golf course but it is very fun and highly recommended.
The staff was great and I will return to play again"
Don Webster
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elephant Rocks Golf Course is located in Williams, Arizona, about a 2.5-hour drive north of Phoenix. Take I-17 North to Flagstaff, then I-40 West towards Williams. The course is conveniently located just off I-40.
Public transport options directly to the golf course are limited. It's best to drive or arrange for a taxi/rideshare service from nearby towns like Williams or Flagstaff.
The drive from Flagstaff to Elephant Rocks Golf Course is approximately 30-40 minutes via I-40 West.
Yes, Williams, AZ, offers various hotels and motels. For more upscale options or different experiences, Flagstaff is also a good base, about 30-40 minutes away.
The closest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) is closer but has fewer flight options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Green fees vary depending on the season, day of the week, and time of day. It's recommended to check their official website or use booking platforms like GolfNow for current pricing and to book tee times.
Yes, booking a tee time in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season and weekends, as the course is very popular.
The course typically opens early in the morning and closes around sunset. Specific hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check their official website or call ahead.
Keep an eye on their website and booking platforms for potential deals, twilight rates, or package offers, especially during the shoulder seasons.
Yes, golf club rentals are typically available at the pro shop. It's advisable to inquire about availability and pricing when booking your tee time. :golf_cart:
🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience
Elephant Rocks is known for its creative design, integrating natural rock formations into the layout. It's a scenic mountain course that's challenging yet fun, with good fairways and greens.
While it's a fun course, some reviewers note it can be challenging due to its elevation and creative design. It's not considered overly difficult but offers a good test for golfers.
Some reviews suggest the course could benefit from more distance markers. It's a good idea to have a GPS device or app handy.
The course features a large driving range and a putting green, providing good areas for warm-up before your round.
Standard golf attire is expected. Collared shirts are generally required for men, and appropriate golf wear for women. Check with the pro shop for specific guidelines. :polo_shirt:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is typically a clubhouse with a restaurant or snack bar offering food and beverages. It's a convenient spot to grab a bite before or after your round.
Expect typical golf course fare, including sandwiches, burgers, salads, and snacks, along with a selection of drinks.
Policies on outside food and beverages can vary. It's best to check with the pro shop or clubhouse staff regarding their specific rules. :water_buffalo:
Williams, AZ, has several restaurants offering various cuisines, from casual diners to more established eateries, providing options if you prefer to eat off-site.
Some courses offer beverage cart service during peak times. Inquire at the pro shop about the availability of cart service during your visit. :ice_cream:
📸 📸 Photography
The most striking photo opportunities are with the namesake elephant rock formations. The scenic mountain vistas and well-maintained fairways also offer beautiful backdrops. 
Drone usage policies can vary and may require permits or prior approval. It's essential to check with the golf course management before flying a drone.
Access for non-golfers might be restricted. It's best to contact the course directly to inquire about photography access or if they offer specific visitor passes.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best light for landscape and golf course photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Many holes offer unique views, especially those featuring the large rock formations. Holes that incorporate the natural landscape and elevation changes are often highlighted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the duration of a round of golf when planning with children. If your family isn't avid golfers, a full 18 holes might be lengthy. You could opt for a shorter 9-hole round if available, or focus on using the driving range and putting green for a more casual family activity. Ensure everyone is dressed appropriately for the weather and has comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking involved.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food costs, consider packing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during your round, though always check the course's policy on outside food and beverages. If you're traveling from a distance, look for lodging deals in Williams or Flagstaff during the off-season or mid-week. The scenic beauty of the course itself is a major draw that doesn't cost extra, making it a worthwhile experience even on a tighter budget.
couples
Consider booking a twilight tee time for a more relaxed and intimate experience as the sun begins to set, casting a beautiful glow over the landscape. Afterwards, you can enjoy a meal at the clubhouse or explore the charming town of Williams for a romantic dinner. The combination of natural beauty and a shared activity makes it an ideal destination for couples looking for a unique Arizona experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geology of Elephant Rocks
These geological wonders are part of the Arizona batholith, a large body of igneous rock that has been exposed by erosion over time. The smooth, rounded appearance is due to exfoliation, a process where outer layers of rock peel away. Golfers often find themselves strategizing around these ancient giants, adding a layer of natural strategy to the game. The presence of these rocks also contributes to the course's high elevation, which can affect ball flight and club selection.
For visitors, the elephant rocks offer more than just a golfing challenge; they are a natural spectacle. Many visitors are captivated by how seamlessly the course designers incorporated these natural features. It’s a reminder of the powerful forces of nature and a unique aspect that sets Elephant Rocks apart from other golf destinations.
+1Navigating the Course: Layout and Conditions
The fairways and greens are generally reported to be in good shape, contributing to a pleasant playing experience. However, some visitors have noted that the cart paths can be dusty, particularly if you're following another cart. This is something to be aware of, especially on drier days. The course also benefits from its high elevation, which can lead to longer drives but also requires adjustments in club selection due to the thinner air.
While the course offers a fantastic visual experience, some players have pointed out a need for more distance markers on certain holes. Utilizing a GPS device or a golf app can be helpful for precise yardages. Despite these minor points, the consensus is that Elephant Rocks offers a memorable and engaging round of golf, with many players expressing a desire to return.
Golfing at Elevation: Tips for Elephant Rocks
Beyond the extra distance, the thinner air at high elevations can also affect your swing. Some golfers find it easier to swing more freely due to less resistance, while others might feel slightly winded. It's important to stay hydrated and take it easy, especially if you're not accustomed to high altitudes. The weather can also be more variable at this elevation, so packing layers is crucial, even during the summer months.
When planning your round at Elephant Rocks, consider that the course is also known for its natural beauty and unique rock formations. These elements, combined with the elevation, create a truly distinctive golfing experience. Embrace the altitude, enjoy the views, and be prepared for a game that might feel a little different – and potentially longer – than what you're used to.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit