Bahle Farms Golf Course

Champion Hill Golf Course in Benzie County delivers challenging golf with authentic Northern Michigan character. The course winds through rolling terrain dotted with mature hardwoods and evergreens, creating natural obstacles that test your shot-making skills. Each hole presents unique elevation changes and strategic decisions that keep rounds interesting for golfers of all abilities. The well-maintained greens roll true, while fairways reward accurate drives. Located just a short drive from Traverse City, this course combines affordable golf with scenic beauty that captures the essence of Up North golf without the pretension of resort courses.

Carved through the rolling hills of Benzie County, Mistwood Golf Course tells the story of Northern Michigan's natural beauty translated into challenging fairways. This family-owned course opened in the 1990s when local golf enthusiasts decided their community deserved something special. The signature holes wind through dense hardwood forests where morning mist clings to ancient oaks and maples. What started as a dream between friends has become a golfer's sanctuary, where deer often graze near the greens and the pace stays refreshingly unhurried compared to busier Traverse City courses.

The Dunes Golf Club sits on some of the most stunning terrain you'll find on the Leelanau Peninsula. This championship course winds through rolling dunes and mature hardwoods, with several holes giving you glimpses of Lake Michigan in the distance. The layout challenges golfers at every skill level without being punishing - you'll find strategic bunkering and elevation changes that keep things interesting. After your round, grab a cold beer on the clubhouse deck and soak in those Northern Michigan views. It's the kind of place where you'll want to book another tee time before you even finish.

Sugar Loaf Golf Course on the Leelanau Peninsula delivers golf with a side of Michigan magic. This course winds through rolling terrain where cherry orchards meet fairways, creating views that'll have you reaching for your camera between shots. The layout challenges golfers of all skill levels without being punishing, making it a favorite among locals and Traverse City visitors alike. What sets Sugar Loaf apart is its authentic Northern Michigan character – you're playing through genuine farmland and forest, not some manufactured golf paradise. The clubhouse maintains that unpretentious charm that makes Northern Michigan special.

Jack Nicklaus designed this championship course back in 1985, and Golf Digest still ranks it the 18th toughest in America — plan on bringing your A-game and a few extra sleeves of balls.

The resort's original course started as the humble Acme Public Golf Course and grew into a 6,741-yard William Newcomb design that locals still prefer for its walkability and charm.