Northern Michigan Golf Guide – Michigan Golf Courses and Resorts

Pine Cone Accommodations – Custom Gaylord Golf Packages

Signature - Rick Smith - Treetops

Come Stay & Play with us in Gaylord

Choose Your Lodging & Golf

6, 8, 12, 16 individual beds
17 Area Golf Courses
Customized to your needs

What Are You Waiting For?

Book your golf outing today by calling: 1 (866) 731 -1887

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Stay & Play – Choose Your Lodging & Golf
 6, 8, 12, 16 individual beds
17 Area Golf Courses
Customized to your needs

3 – Round Of Golf + 2 Nights Stay + 1 Dinner* = Your Own Custom Stay & Play

GOLF:
Gaylord Golf “MECCA” 17 Area Golf Courses**

NIGHTS LODGING: DINNER:
– On the Golf Course – Big Buck
– In the Woods – Inn The Woods at Michaywe
– On the Lake – The Loon
– Behind the Golf Course

Book your golf outing today by calling: 1 (866) 731 -1887

Visit Pine Cone Accommodations Website >>>>

• Custom Stay and Play Golf Packages

• Let’s Talk Golf – Book Your Stay and Play Golf Package

 
 

The Tribute – Otsego Club & Resort – Gaylord

By Jim Barnes

When The Tribute opened in 2002, it turned Otsego Club & Resort from one of northern Michigan’s oldest golf resorts into one of its most exciting. The thousand-acre property the course is built on is the same rugged Sturgeon River Valley terrain that flows away from the resort, beginning with downhill ski slopes, and continuing north through what has to be some of the most dramatic golfing ground this side of Arcadia Bluffs or Whistling Straits. In a word, The Tribute is stunning.

With terrain like this, you get big elevation changes, ravine crossings, blind shots – to use another word: excitement. Dramatic, but fair, also comes to mind. As with many great courses, the holes can sometimes look more intimidating than they really are, and this extreme terrain feeds that effect greatly. Breathe deep, think about each shot (the course guidebook comes in very handy), relax and enjoy yourself.

The dramatic No. 3, a 430 yard par-4 that drops over 100 feet from tee to green, is a prime example. It’s easy to get psyched out, but use all that downhill momentum to your advantage. Pick your spot…nice and easy…keep it in play…Challenging, yes, but never unfair. Fairways are generally wide and spacious, and greens are large and accepting, forgiving from at least one angle, so that short hitters can make their way around without frustration. Like the Otsego Resort itself, this course is designed for maximum enjoyment. You are out there to have a good time, reveling in nature, on a truly special golf course.

The course took eight years to build, and during that time Otsego’s owner Keith Gornick and course designer Gary Koch (of NBC-TV golf announcing fame) both lost their fathers. At that point, the course was christened “The Tribute” in honor of both men, and a plaque on the first tee describes how the course is a tribute to the fathers and to “the love of the land and the game of golf that they imparted to their sons.”

How cool is that? Reading the plaque gave me shivers, and it set the tone for revelatory day on the links, remembering how my own father started me out in golf, and about what a great sport it is, especially when played in a dramatic natural setting like this.

Looking for a challenge? There are four sets of tees to choose from, stretching to 7,347-yards at the tips. The par-3 ninth plays 240 yards from the back tees, and the carry over a big marshland makes it feel even longer. At this point you’re so far out in the wilderness that you feel eyes peering at you from the forest as you make the turn back towards civilization.

This is one of those courses you just have to see to believe. The Otsego ski hill is for club members only, so being able to golf the property gives you a sense of entitlement. It’s a place you really feel privileged to set foot on the first tee. 18 beautiful holes and seven miles of cart paths later, you may just have rediscovered your own love of the land, and how well it can be utilized to bring challenge and excitement to the game of golf.

The Tribute – Otsego Club Photos
(Click photos for slideshow view)
 

 
Related Articles

Visit Otsego Club & Resort Website >>>>

 
 

Treetops Resort – Spring Unlimited Golf – $99 (2011)

You asked for it and we’re bringing it back.  Unlimited Golf Packages include:

  • One night’s stay (Any available hotel room)
  • One breakfast (Any available restaurant)
  • Unlimited use of range
  • Unlimited golf from the moment you arrive until the moment you depart (Not like those other guys who only give you one day of unlimited golf).

    • Masterpiece course only
    April 29 – May 31 , 2011 – $99 per person/per night

    • Excludes May 20 – 22, 2011
    • Based on double occupancy
    • Subject to availability
    • Price does not include Taxes and Gratuities.

Did you already purchase a $99 certificate? Let reservations know and they’ll convert your package to unlimited if your dates match up to the above Unlimited Golf Special.

Visit Treetops Resort Website >>>>

 
 

Treetops Resort – Golf Academy

TreetopsAcademyweb.jpgBetter golf begins with better instruction. Treetops has been revered since the mid 1980’s for delivering the finest golf instruction in the state. Students have traveled from all over the United States and other countries with the goal of improving their games in mind. A goal that we take very seriously and have achieved results in most cases. Top notch instruction will continue to be a staple at Treetops well into the future with spectacular programs for all ages, genders and abilities. Not only do we provide a world class practice facility, but we provide 81 Spectacular holes to perfect your game.

Student Testimonial: “The quality of instruction was second to none.  The course content was perfect for my skill level.  I did not feel overwhelmed.  In fact, I left more excited about the game than ever, know I had some very doable improvements to work on.”

Whether you’re looking to enhance your full swing, hone your short game or get out on the course to put yourself in real golf situations, our instructors will help you maximize your skills, increase your confidence and lower your score.

Corporate/Group Outings

The Treetops Golf Academy offers a variety of options for corporate outings. We can customize a program for any size group and still provide the personal instruction we’re known for. Depending on daily agenda and objective of your meeting/outing, the Treetops Golf Academy can be a valued amenity to enhance your golfing experience.

For more information or to reserve your golf instruction through The Treetops Golf Academy, click here now or please call (866) 348-5249 prompt 7, or dial the Treetops Golf Academy at 989-731-8485.

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Visit Treetops Resort Website >>>>

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Treetops – Treetops Cup Matches – July 9 – 11, 2010

The Tournament

US vs. Canada in Ryder Cup style matches in which the US claimed a 9—7 victory in 2009.

The Schedule

Friday, July 9th through Sunday, July 11th

America vs. Canada

Fourball match
Foursome match
Singles match

Player Registration

ENTRY FEE
$325 per person (based on double occupancy)

The entry fee includes:
Two nights lodging
54 holes of match play
Two team shirts
One team hat
Pairings reception
One Group Dinner

Contact Us

For additional tournament information please contact Kevin McKinley at kmckinley@treetops.com or 989.731.8480

Visit Treetops Resort Website >>>>

 
 

Treetops – “We’re Open” Invitational – April 30, 2011

19th Annual “We’re Open” Invitational on April 30, 2011 at Treetops Resort

The Tournament
Four – Person scramble to kick off the season. Two events in one with a choice to play either the Rick Smith Signature or the Tom Fazio Premier. Entry fee includes 18 holes of golf, T-shirt, food, keg beer and prizes.

$65 per person

For more information or to sign up contact Alex Hughes at 989-732-6711 (extension 2824) or via email at ahughes@treetops.com

Visit Treetops Resort Website >>>>

 
 

Treetops – Jones Masterpiece

The final design of Robert Trent Jones, Sr. in Michigan is truly a masterpiece. In his own words, Jones claimed it his crowning glory. The course is located at the headwaters of the Pigeon River and takes full advantage of natural valleys, ravines and broad plains. The signature sixth hole features a 120’ vertical drop
and a panoramic view of the Pigeon River Valley.

Treetops – Jones Masterpiece
3962 Wilkinson Road
Gaylord, MI 49735
1-888-873-3867

Visit Treetops – Jones Masterpiece Website >>>

 

Jones Masterpiece – Hole #11

Jones Masterpiece – Hole #13

Jones Masterpiece – Hole #14



 

• See – Treetops Resort – Jones Masterpiece – Photos

• See – Treetops Resort – Jones Masterpiece – Ducker Golf Report

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Treetops – Fazio Premier

Premier is the only course in Michigan designed by famed architect Tom Fazio, making the most of the rolling terrain and striking the perfect balance between challenge and forgiveness. When asked to name a signature hole, Fazio replied, “All of them!”

Treetops – Fazio Premier
3962 Wilkinson Road
Gaylord, MI 49735
1-888-873-3867

Visit Treetops – Fazio Premier Website >>>

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Fazio Premier – Hole #7

Fazio Premier – Hole #11

Fazio Premier – Hole #18



 

• See – Treetops Resort – Fazio Premier – Photos

• See – Treetops Resort – Fazio Premier – Ducker Golf Report

 
 

Treetops – Rick Smith Signature

Rick Smith, renowned architect and golf instructor, set the bar high with Signature, his first 18-hole course. The course unfolds into high upland and features undulating greens and wide, forgiving fairways. Signature has been rated a Top 50 Course for Women.

Treetops – Rick Smith Signature
3962 Wilkinson Road
Gaylord, MI 49735
1-888-873-3867

Visit Treetops – Rick Smith Signature Website >>>

 
 

Treetops – Rick Smith Tradition

Tradition is Rick Smith’s walking course which pays homage to golf’s origin, and is well named as it features traditional wooden pins and pennant flags. The links-style layout takes advantage of high ridges and hilltops, providing some sloping while still being walkable. Holes one through nine wrap back around to the starter house, allowing for nine-hole play.

Treetops – Rick Smith Tradition
3962 Wilkinson Road
Gaylord, MI 49735
1-888-873-3867

Treetops – Rick Smith Tradition Website >>>

 
 

Treetops – Threetops Par 3

Rick Smith’s first par three course has received national recognition since it opened, consistently ranking as the #1 par three course in America by Golf Magazine, Golfweek, Golf & Travel and several others. It’s perhaps the most recognized par three course in America. For a number of years, Threetops hosted the ESPN Par 3 Shootout. Lee Trevino recorded an ace on #7 during the Shootout in 2001. The course itself features elevated greens and tees with noticeable slopes.

Treetops – Threetops Par 3
3962 Wilkinson Road
Gaylord, MI 49735
1-888-873-3867

Treetops – Threetops Par 3 Website >>>

 
 

Gaylord Country Club

Founded in 1924, Gaylord Country Club is one of northern Michigan’s oldest golf clubs. This semi-private club meanders through the hills and hardwoods just west of Gaylord and features private club conditions, strategic bunkering and arguably the best green complexes found in northern Michigan.

Unlike today’s modern golf courses, which can take more time to play, Gaylord Country Club is a classic parkland design reminiscent of the early 20th century courses featuring close proximity from greens to tees and a variety of designed holes allowing for a more enjoyable round in less time.

Gaylord Country Club is one of the few private clubs in northern Michigan allowing public play anytime. We invite you to become a member of our club for a day and experience the game of golf the way it was meant to be.

Gaylord Country Club
4893 M-32 West
Gaylord, MI 49735
231-546-3376

Visit Gaylord Country Club Website >>>

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Gaylord Country Club – Hole #8

Gaylord Country Club – Hole #11

Gaylord Country Club – Hole #18



 

• See – Gaylord Country Club – Photos

• See – Gaylord Country Club – Ducker Golf Report

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An Afternoon at the Jason Guss Golf Academy – A Revelatory Golf Experience

By Jim Barnes

“Forget about the ball,” said the golf instructor. “The last thing you want to think about right now is the golf ball.” And, he was right. The six of us in the clinic had just been filmed swinging at balls, and it wasn’t pretty. If we wanted to fix these ugly golf swings, we were going to have to start concentrating on our bodies, not the golf balls.

The instructor is Jason Guss, a young professional who spent 11 years working under swing guru Rick Smith at Treetops, with teaching stints in Florida and Australia. Golf Digest magazine is already featuring his lessons, and the buzz around the golf world is that he is one of the hottest, up-and-coming teachers in the game today. I’m here on a beautiful July day to preview the new Jason Guss Golf Academy at the Otsego Club in Gaylord, Michigan.

Jason is equipped not only with vast knowledge and experience, but with the best technology available today: the Trackman Pro swing and ball flight analysis machine is the technology all the pros are using, and V1 Pro video analysis software allows you to monitor improvements and even see your swing side-by-side with various PGA professionals.

Back indoors, watching our golf swings on the computer monitor, it was evident Guss would need great skill to fix them. But, after spending just five minutes filming each of us and reviewing the video, he now had core lessons and swing tips for everyone, which he succinctly explained to each of us. Now it was time to return to the practice tee and put Jason’s advice to work.

Amazingly, we all improved. His suggestions were spot-on, helping each one of us solve a key problem, be it weight shift, swing path, stance — he nailed them all. Starting us out with half swings, making us concentrate on our prescribed changes, we all began marveling about the solid contact we were making and how straight we were hitting. Now we could start concentrating on the ball. I pulled out my driver and hit the sweetest draw of my life.

I realized I was in the presence of a master teacher. Me hit a draw?!? Later that day, my new swing led to a tap-in birdie on a 180-yard par 3, after one of the sweetest 3 irons I’ve ever hit. Since then, I purchased a new oversized driver, and a week later carded my first eagle. I have a whole new attitude about my game and my swing. Do I owe it all to Jason Guss? Let’s just say I’m really glad I attended that afternoon clinic, and I’m totally convinced of Jason’s abilities. Yes, we are very lucky to have him here in Northern Michigan.

But wait, there’s more! Not only is Jason Guss an out-of-this-world golf instructor, the Jason Guss Golf Academy is located at an other-worldly resort, the Otsego Club, with its killer 25-acre practice facility, some of the most charming dining and overnight accommodations in the North, and also some of the best golf: The Classic course and The Tribute are both on site, and the affiliated, Tom Doak-designed Black Forest is a short drive away. (See a review of the Gary Koch-designed Tribute course HERE.)

A wide variety of Golf Academy programs and individual lessons are available, the most intriguing of which are the two and three day packages that allow you to getting totally immersed in improving your game, combining lessons, practice and playing, all day long. The room I stayed in was a totally charming, log cabin-themed room with a patio about 100 paces from the practice tee. Working on your golf game sure is fun when you’re in a beautiful setting with a relaxed atmosphere. With this great facility, Jason’s teaching skills, and the Trackman and video analysis there to record your progress, your game is sure to improve — and you’re bound to have one of the great golf adventures of your life!

Jason Guss Golf Academy Photos
(Click photos for slideshow view)

 
Visit Otsego Club & Resort Website >>>>

 
 

Treetops Resort

Designed by Masters, Played by Champions, Treetops is the name by which all other courses in Michigan are measured. It is on the short list of the nation’s finest golf facilities. Dramatic views, contours and rolling terrain provide a beautiful setting for world-class golf. Treetops is truly the Midwest’s must play resort. Treetops Resort features 238 guest rooms, including standard and deluxe hotel rooms and two and three-bedroom condominiums. Nearly every room takes advantage of our majestic setting and offers sweeping views of ski hills, golf courses, pristine woods or wetlands.

Treetops Golf
Five distinctly different courses by renowned designers Robert Trent Jones, Sr., Tom Fazio and Rick Smith offer arguably the best collection of golf anywhere in the country. Better golf begins with better instruction. And you won’t find more experienced, highly skilled instructors than those at Treetops. In fact, the Rick Smith Golf Academy is Michigan’s only three-time, Top 25 golf school. So whether you’re looking to enhance your full swing or hone your short game, our instructors will help you maximize your skills, increase your confidence and lower your score.

Jones Masterpiece
The final design of Robert Trent Jones, Sr. in Michigan is truly a masterpiece. In his own words, Jones claimed it his crowning glory. The course is located at the headwaters of the Pigeon River and takes full advantage of natural valleys, ravines and broad plains. The signature sixth hole […]

Fazio Premier
Premier is the only course in Michigan designed by famed architect Tom Fazio, making the most of the rolling terrain and striking the perfect balance between challenge and forgiveness. When asked to name a signature hole, Fazio replied, “All of them!” Treetops – Fazio Premier 3962 Wilkinson Road Gaylord, MI 49735 1-888-873-3867 Visit Treetops – Fazio […]

Rick Smith Signature
Rick Smith, renowned architect and golf instructor, set the bar high with Signature, his first 18-hole course. The course unfolds into high upland and features undulating greens and wide, forgiving fairways. Signature has been rated a Top 50 Course for Women. Treetops – Rick Smith Signature 3962 Wilkinson Road Gaylord, MI 49735 1-888-873-3867 Visit Treetops – […]

Rick Smith Tradition
Tradition is Rick Smith’s walking course which pays homage to golf’s origin, and is well named as it features traditional wooden pins and pennant flags. The links-style layout takes advantage of high ridges and hilltops, providing some sloping while still being walkable. Holes one through nine wrap back around to […]

Threetops Par 3
Rick Smith’s first par three course has received national recognition since it opened, consistently ranking as the #1 par three course in America by Golf Magazine, Golfweek, Golf & Travel and several others. It’s perhaps the most recognized par three course in America. For a number of years, Threetops hosted […]

Spa
Treetops Spa caters to both men and women who enjoy personal attention. We pride ourselves in our ability to make our clients feel comfortable and well cared for. We offer a range of Massage Therapies, Body Treatments, Skin Care, Facials, Manicures and Pedicures. All are designed to soothe, pamper, relax, and de-stress your body, mind and spirit.

Meetings & Conferences
Treetops has long been hailed as the finest resort in the Midwest for mixing business with pleasure. There are countless reasons why Treetops is the ultimate setting for your next meeting or event. Treetops’ expert conference staff can easily coordinate an unforgettable conference or banquet, including theme events for everything from a small office retreat to a large corporate gathering. At Treetops, our meeting rooms are equipped to handle audiovisual equipment and include high-speed Internet connections for your convenience. All meeting facilities and certain guest rooms are barrier-free for easy access by mobility-impaired individuals. Treetops provides over 20,000 square feet of meeting and banquet facilities.

Weddings
Breathtaking vistas and a wide variety of amenities make Treetops Resort a premier site for wedding receptions. You and your guests will be pleased with the vast array of lodging options, ranging from standard hotel rooms to luxurious condominium homes.

Summer Activities
Outdoor Adventures – Treetops offers a variety of activities to provide you with the ultimate summer vacation getaway.

SKIING AT TREETOPS
With our location in northern Michigan, Treetops offers some of the finest terrain in the Midwest. Take advantage of our 23 picturesque ski runs, complete with three chairlifts and two tow ropes. A guest seating area in the Warming Hut is located at the base of the slopes where parents have a clear view of their children learning to ski. To further ease the transition of the beginner skier, we have extended one of the tow ropes an additional 145 feet to a lower location. We also feature “The Yard” Terrain park that will be back by popular demand this year which is home to tabletops and rails for skiers and snowboarders in search of a challenge.

Visit Treetops Resort Website >>>>

 
 

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