Vista Valencia Golf Course

Course History

Vista Valencia dates to the mid-1960s, when designer Terry E. Van Forder (whose surname also appears as "Van Gorder" in some course records) laid out an executive-length course on the rolling terrain of the Santa Clarita Valley, just south of today's Six Flags Magic Mountain and about 30 miles north of downtown Los Angeles. Golf databases list opening years of both 1963 and 1966 for the layout.

The privately owned, publicly accessible facility has grown into a 27-hole operation: the 18-hole, par-61 Vista course and the shorter par-3 Chica nine, backed by an expansive lighted practice range. The local Signal newspaper named Vista Valencia the "Best Golf Course in the SCV" in 2012, and the course keeps its park-like setting green with a combination of potable, well, and reclaimed water.

The Design & Architecture

Don't let the executive label fool you — the Vista course defends itself with nearly 50 bunkers, and water comes into play on ten holes across its 4,376 yards. Fairways are a Bermuda and kikuyu blend and the greens are bentgrass and Poa annua, the classic Southern California pairing. Three sets of tees let the par-61 card, a mix of short par 4s and a deep variety of par 3s, fit everyone from juniors to single-digit players sharpening their irons.

Signature Holes

The signature moment comes late in the round: the 17th is a 158-yard par 3 played to an island green surrounded by three bunkers and reached only by a bridge — the course's postcard hole and a genuine card-wrecker if the tee shot leaks. GolfPass reviewers regularly single out the island par-3 17th as the highlight of the round.

Playing the Course

With a course rating of 60.5 and a slope of 100, Vista Valencia is approachable for newer golfers yet still asks better players to hit precise short irons all day, with sand and water waiting for anything loose. Rounds move quickly — regulars report finishing in about three and a half hours — making this one of Santa Clarita's best options for a fast, fun 18 or evening short-game work under the lights.

Know Before You Go

• Public course at 24700 Trevino Drive, Valencia, CA 91355; call (661) 253-1870 for tee times and details.

• More info and booking at https://www.vistavalenciagc.com/.

• Amenities include a lighted driving range (typically 6 AM–9 PM), junior golf programs, custom club fitting, and a bar & grille.

• Tip: proper golf attire is required — no bare feet, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes on the course.