CRYSTAL LAKE, MICHIGAN
Golfing in Northern Michigan
A GOLFER'S GUIDE IN AND MICHIGAN'S LAKE REGIONS
In Northern Michigan the charming town of Frankfort offers more than just stunning views of Crystal Lake and Lake Michigan. For golf enthusiasts, this region is a hidden gem, boasting some of the most challenging and beautiful golf courses in the state. Northern Michigan’s golf courses provide an unrivaled experience beyond comparison.
The Courses
There are an abundance of unique courses catering to just about every skill level. The area offers a mix of exclusive private courses for those wanting to join a club and accessible public courses for all golfers to enjoy.
Public Golf Courses
Arcadia Bluffs
Arcadia Bluffs is a must-play for any golf enthusiast visiting Northern Michigan. Located about an hour from Crystal Lake, this course is consistently ranked amongst the best in the state. Arcadia Bluffs also offers luxurious accommodations with four-bedroom cottages and hotel rooms, along with several incredible restaurants and bars.
Arcadia South Course
A sister course to Arcadia Bluffs, the South Course offers a different but equally impressive experience. With rolling terrain and strategically placed hazards, it provides a fun yet challenging round for golfers of all skill levels.
Crystal Lake Mountain
Crystal Mountain offers two exceptional courses: Mountain Ridge and Betsie Valley. Both courses provide challenging play amidst beautiful scenery. Beyond golf, Crystal Mountain features the only spa in the area, restaurants, bars, and additional activities like summer downhill mountain biking and a downhill luge. It is also an all-season resort with skiing, and winter activities for the entire family.
Forest Dunes Golf Course
Forest Dunes, located in Roscommon, is a top rated course offering a unique golfing experience with its Loop course, which can be played in two directions. This innovative design by Tom Doak is complemented by the original Forest Dunes course, known for its pristine conditions and challenging layout.
Wawashkamo Golf Club
Wawashkamo, located on Mackinac Island, is the oldest active golf course in Michigan. This nine-hole course offers a unique blend of history and charm.
Other notable public courses in the area include:
Private Golf Courses
Crystal Downs Country Club
Ranked as the number one course in Michigan, Crystal Downs is a private club located in Frankfort. Designed by Alister MacKenzie, this course is known for its challenging layout and stunning views thanks to its unrivaled location high on a bluff overlooking both Crystal Lake and Lake Michigan, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the world. It is also centrally located to all Terra’s vacation rental homes in Michigan.
Kingsley Club
Located in Kingsley, this private club is ranked as the third-best course in the area. Designed by a Traverse City local, Mike Devries. The Kingsley Club offers a minimalist design that emphasizes natural beauty and strategic play.
High Pointe Golf Club
Set to reopen this year, High Pointe has been making headlines as it was Tom Doak’s first golf course design. Now being revitalized by Doak, this private course is generating significant interest.
Hidden Gems
Belvedere Golf Club
Located in Charlevoix, Belvedere Golf Club is one of Michigan’s most historic courses. Established in 1925, this public course offers a classic layout that has hosted numerous championships.
Manitou Passage Golf Club
Manitou Passage, located near Glen Arbor, offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands. This Arnold Palmer-designed public course is known for its beautiful setting and well-crafted holes.
Black Lake Golf Club
Designed by Rees Jones, Black Lake Golf Club in Onaway is a hidden gem in Northern Michigan. This public course offers a mix of challenging holes and stunning natural beauty.
Pinecroft Golf Course
Pinecroft Golf Course offers a serene and picturesque setting. Its well-manicured fairways and challenging holes make it a popular choice for golfers in the area. It’s also in close proximity to our Sunkissed Cottages, making it a convenient course to play for those staying on the south side of Crystal Lake.
Planning your golf trip
Planning a golf trip in Northern Michigan is a breeze with the help of Terra Innovations. We have several vacation rental homes and cottages located on and around Crystal Lake, perfect for hosting your golf getaway. Bring the family and spend a few days exploring the area’s top courses while enjoying some relaxing time on the lake.
Get Golfing
Golfing in Northern Michigan, particularly around Crystal Lake in Frankfort, is an experience every golfer should have. The combination of beautiful landscapes, challenging courses, and the welcoming community of Frankfort makes it a top destination for golf enthusiasts.
Pack your clubs, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to tee off in one of the most scenic golfing destinations in the country. See you on the greens!
Where to Stay
