The Horizon Park Guide: Mastering Scottsdale's Busiest Pickleball Courts
Last updated: January 2026
If you want to find a game in Scottsdale at 7:00 AM on a Tuesday, you go to Horizon Park. Located on 100th Street in North Scottsdale, this is the epicenter of the local pickleball scene. It is free, friendly, and ferociously busy.
1. The Court Setup (10 Dedicated)
Horizon Park features 10 permanent pickleball courts with dedicated lines and nets. This is not a tennis overlay situation. The courts are individually fenced to prevent stray balls from interrupting matches, which is a huge quality-of-life feature.
2. Mastering the "Paddle Saddle"
When you walk up to the courts, you will see a metal rack with paddles lined up. This is the Paddle Saddle, and it dictates who plays next. Do not bypass it.
- How it Works: Place your paddle in the next available slot on the rack (left to right).
- The Grouping: Paddles are typically grouped in sets of 4. When a court opens up, the next group of 4 paddles takes the court.
- Mixing In: If you are solo, put your paddle in a slot with 3 others. This is the beauty of Horizon—you don't need to bring a partner. The rack creates the games.
3. Best Times to Play
The culture at Horizon is dictated by the sun.
| Time Block | Crowd Level | Player Type |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Max Capacity | Serious / Advanced |
| 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM | High | Social / Recreational |
| Evenings (Lights) | Moderate | After-Work Crowd |
4. Local Etiquette
Because it is so busy, efficiency is key.
- Play to 11: Games are standard scoring to 11, win by 2.
- 4 On / 4 Off: If the rack is full, all four players leave the court after the game, and four new players rotate in. Winners do not stay on.
- Ball Etiquette: If a ball enters your court, stop play immediately, yell "Ball!", and return it. Safety first.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Is it free to play at Horizon Park?
Yes. Horizon Park is a public facility managed by the City of Scottsdale. There are no court fees for drop-in play.
Are there bathrooms nearby?
Yes. There are permanent restrooms located just a short walk from the pickleball courts, near the community center building.
Can I reserve a court at Horizon Park?
Generally, no. Horizon Park operates primarily on a first-come, first-served basis using the paddle rack system to ensure fair access for everyone.
Don't Just Rotate In, Win.
The competition at Horizon Park can be fierce, especially in the early morning. If you are tired of losing your spot on the court after one game, let us help. Golden Racket Academy offers private coaching to help you dominate the open play rotation.