The Petoskey and Harbor Springs area is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and for golf enthusiasts, it offers some of the finest courses in the Midwest. With rolling hills, breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, and expertly designed courses, this Northern Michigan region is a golfer’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual golfer looking to enjoy a scenic round, Petoskey and Harbor Springs provide unforgettable golfing experiences for players of all skill levels.
Bay Harbor Golf Club: World-Class Golf on the Shores of Lake Michigan
Bay Harbor Golf Club is one of the crown jewels of Northern Michigan golf. Designed by the legendary Arthur Hills, this world-class course offers 27 holes that are divided into three nine-hole courses: The Links, The Quarry, and The Preserve. Each course provides its own unique challenge and stunning vistas of Lake Michigan, making Bay Harbor a bucket-list destination for any golfer.
- The Links: This course runs along the dramatic bluffs of Lake Michigan, offering sweeping water views and the feel of a Scottish links course.
- The Quarry: Nestled within an abandoned shale quarry, this course provides a one-of-a-kind experience with its dramatic rock formations and challenging layout.
- The Preserve: This nine-hole course is surrounded by lush forests and wetlands, offering a serene and scenic round of golf
Bay Harbor Golf Club’s luxurious amenities, breathtaking scenery, and impeccably maintained courses make it a must-visit for golfers visiting the Petoskey area.
The Highlands at Harbor Springs: A Golfer’s Haven with Four Championship Courses
Just a short drive from Petoskey, The Highlands at Harbor Springs offers four championship golf courses, each with its own unique style and challenge. With a reputation for exceptional course design and spectacular views, The Highlands has become one of the premier golf destinations in Michigan.
- The Heather: Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., The Heather is a classic and highly regarded course known for its strategic layout, rolling fairways, and fast greens.
- The Arthur Hills Course: This course features dramatic elevation changes, with some of the best views of the surrounding countryside. The layout challenges golfers with its natural terrain and scenic vistas.
- The Donald Ross Memorial: This unique course recreates some of the most famous holes designed by Donald Ross from legendary courses around the world, offering a tour of iconic golf history.
- The Moor: A favorite for its more relaxed layout, The Moor provides a fun and challenging round with plenty of water hazards and scenic views.
With its variety of courses, The Highlands caters to golfers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned players, offering something for everyone.
Crooked Tree Golf Club: Golfing Amidst Northern Michigan’s Natural Beauty
Located just outside Petoskey, Crooked Tree Golf Club offers a picturesque golfing experience with sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding forests. The course, also designed by Arthur Hills, combines natural beauty with a challenging layout that rewards accuracy and strategy.
Crooked Tree’s front nine features tree-lined fairways, while the back nine opens up to stunning vistas of the bay. The elevated greens, rolling terrain, and panoramic views make for an unforgettable golfing experience.
Hidden River Golf & Casting Club: A Tranquil Escape
If you’re looking for a more secluded and tranquil golfing experience, Hidden River Golf & Casting Club in nearby Brutus is an excellent choice. This 18-hole championship course is nestled along the Maple River, surrounded by dense forests and wildlife. The serene setting provides a peaceful and scenic round of golf.
Known for its excellent course conditions and natural beauty, Hidden River offers a challenging layout with water hazards, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens. After your round, relax at the Albatross Grill, where you can enjoy farm-to-table dining in a rustic lodge setting.
Plan Your Golf Getaway
With its stunning courses, breathtaking views, and world-class amenities, the Petoskey and Harbor Springs area is a top destination for golfers looking to experience the best of Northern Michigan. Whether you're aiming to challenge yourself on championship courses or simply enjoy a relaxing round with friends, the region’s golf offerings provide something for everyone.