Hole 17 at Desert Willow Golf Resort (Firecliff)

Par 3 • 204 Yards • Palm Desert, California

Enhanced Content

Brutal

Desert Willow Golf Resort (Firecliff) hole 17 presents a classic desert par 3 that demands precision over power at 204 yards. This straight-forward test features a small, well-protected green nestled against the dramatic backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Without major hazards to intimidate, the challenge lies in club selection and execution, as the compact target leaves little margin for error. The elevated tee provides stunning panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, but golfers must resist distraction and focus on the task at hand. Wind conditions can significantly impact play, making this seemingly straightforward hole a true test of accuracy and course management that often determines scoring momentum heading into the final hole.

Tees:

204y192y170y152y129y

Green:18y × 28y

2 BunkersWater dogleg

Loading map...

Desert Willow Golf Resort (Firecliff)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Play This Course at Home

Practice Desert Willow Golf Resort (Firecliff) Year-Round

Launch monitors from $600 and simulators from $2,500 include real course data. Play every hole without leaving home.

Browse Launch Monitors & Simulators

Amazon · Top brands compared · Free returns on most items

We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.

Hole Stats

Par: 3
Yardage: 204 yds
Green: 3146 sq ft
Bunkers: 2
Water: Yes
Course Slope: 138
Course Rating: 73.6

Navigate

Back to Desert Willow Golf Resort (Firecliff)View Full Scorecard

Recommended Gear

A hybrid or long iron makes this long par 3 far more manageable off the tee.

Shop Hybrids →

Strategy Tips

tee shot

Club selection is critical on this 204-yard par 3 - take one extra club to ensure you clear the bunkers positioned at 191.8 yards and reach the putting surface with confidence.

approach

Aim for the center of the compact 3,146 square foot green (18x28 yards) rather than hunting pins - the relatively small target rewards conservative play over aggressive pin-seeking.

tee shot

With the fairway narrowing to just 24 yards at the 200-yard mark, accuracy becomes paramount - focus on a smooth, controlled swing rather than maximum distance.

train this shot at home

This par 3 is ideal for working on your long iron or hybrid. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.

See launch monitors & simulators

Scoring Tip

On long par 3s, hitting the green is a win — don't be afraid to take one extra club and aim center.

Play Desert Willow Golf Resort (Firecliff) from Your Living Room

Launch monitors and simulators now include real course data. Practice your strategy on every hole before your round — or just for fun.

Compare Systems

Frequently Asked Questions

What club should I use on this par 3?

At 204 yards, most golfers will need a long iron or hybrid (5-iron to 6-iron) to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.

How difficult is hole 17?

This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 3, water in play, small green.

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 17?

Key hazards include: water at 172.2 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 17?

The green is small and requires precision. The green is deeper than wide, so club selection is crucial. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.

What's a good score on hole 17?

This hole is a challenging par where bogey is acceptable. This longer par 3 will test your long iron or hybrid game. Par is a good score.

Can I practice hole 17 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Desert Willow Golf Resort (Firecliff). You can play this exact par 3 shot-by-shot at home. Entry-level options like the SkyTrak+ (around $2,500) and Garmin Approach R10 (around $600) support course play, while premium systems from Trackman and Foresight offer tour-level accuracy. Most systems pay for themselves in a season or two versus green fees and range balls. Shop home golf simulators →