Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage

This course used to be a favourite but shocked yesterday at conditions we found and unfriendly staff in pro shop. The fairways were in rough shape ams tee boxes worse. Sand traps were never raked and in terrible condition. Worst condition of any of the courses we have played in the area. Only thing saving the day was the view of the snowy mountains and the enjoyable couple we were partnered with. What a shame that it has fallen into a state of disrepair.

My wife’s opinion is she felt the course was not in good condition. and worth the green fee. A lot of unfilled divots, sparse fairway grass, bunkers overfilled especially fairway bunkers, a lot of pine (or like) needles. The overall layout is wonderful and challenging but sadly was negated by the conditions.

Enjoyed the round. Didn’t finish 18 because back 9 was all of a sudden very slow. Could use some tracking of slower groups. Last call for the drinks cart at 2:15 is quite early.

The bunkers had a lot of sand… almost too much. Otherwise/- all was good!

I've played this course a few times over the years. The fairways and greens have always been in great shape. This time, not so much. The greens are okay, but very dry and don't hold very well. I hit quite a few greens in regulation and never left a pitch mark.

Overall, the fairways were a disappointment. Compared to the Palm course, which I played the next day, the Valley course fairways are spotty with a few weeds here and there. Dry patches are prevalent. Most of the bunkers, which are currently being renovated, were just hard packed sand that you can't get your club under. You have to chip out or use your putter if there isn't a lip to contend with.

If you want to play the Marriott Desert Springs courses, I highly recommend the Palm course. Hopefully, they will get the Valley course back in the shape it needs to be, especially if they are going to charge $200+. Until then, I can't recommend it.

Regardless of course conditions, you can't go wrong with the views of the snow packed mountains. This is a beautiful place to play golf!