The Black Desert Resort golf course in Ivins, Utah, officially opened 18 holes for play later this month. In addition to its opening it was also named the future host of the 2025 LPGA Tour competition.
The layout is a design by Phil Smith and the late architect Tom Weiskopf, the fairways of the golf course are situated in former fields of black lava. This property's black lava rock, basalt, originated from lava that flowed intermittently from ancient volcanoes. The magnificent red rock mountains of southern Utah surround these fairways.
Last November, Black Desert Resort opened nine holes for limited preview play while the other nine holes were being finished. An additional 19th hole is planned, an 85-yard par 3 located by the lake and terrace on the black lava, which will be opened later this year.
Playability was a priority for architects and designers, with most fairways in Black Desert being 70 to 100 yards wide. The course also features two drivable par fours namely the fifth and fourteenth holes, considering both strategy and risk/reward elements.
Black Desert Resort was developed by Reef Capital Partners and the project includes a 150-room hotel, walking trails, a spa, restaurants, 32 real estate lots, and retail stores. Golf and agronomy operations at Black Desert Resort will be managed by Troon Golf. The golfing experience and service at the resort will be remarkable due to Weiskopf's functional design and natural surroundings. Amenities include a snack bar, on-course food and drink delivery service and GPS-enabled trolleys.
Jared Lucero, CEO of Reef Capital highlighted; “The Black Desert Resort is located at the convergence of three unique landscapes, black lava beds, high red rock cliffs of Zion National Park and Utah's beautiful Mohave Desert. The emerald fairways and greens between the lava fields are set against the backdrop of red rock, creating an awe-inspiring golfing backdrop”.
