EMERALD VALE GOLF CLUB (231-824-3631)
Michigan Golf Course Review 7/19/05
Emerald Vale in Manton, just north of Cadillac and 35 minutes south of Traverse City is a Bruce Matthews
championship design featuring wide fairways along a rolling, tree lined terrain with ample, mature pines and
hardwoods.. The course plays from 6785 to 5219 yards with 120 yards of elevation changes. On a rainy, hazy
morning on our review date we found the course to be in very good condition, with sculpted tees and large, undulating bent grass putting surfaces.
Water comes into play in the shape of crossing creeks or ponds on nine of the holes, and 37 sand bunkers
(some quite large as indicated in the photos above) are strategically positioned along the fairways or greenside,
creating the need for some accurate iron play. With the generally wide landing areas, this course is player
friendly for all levels of golfers. Four sets of tees play to distances and slopes measuring 6785 yards/130 slope,
6425 yards/124 slope, 5971 yards122 slope, and 5219 yards with a slope of 122 for ladies playing from the forward sets.
On property is a grass range with bentgrass tees and target areas and two large practice greens. The
clubhouse features a pro shop plus restaurant/bar that serves lunch items and beverages - with outing facilities
that can accommodate small and large groups. On course golfers will find sprinkler heads that are measured to
the center of the green plus stakes on the fairways to indicate 100, 150 and 200 yard areas. Small markers on the flag sticks provide info on front, middle or back pin placements.
There are some beautiful par threes on this layout, including the two featured on the photos above - each playing
from tee areas that provide significant drops. Some of the par fours and fives are tightly tree lined near the tee
areas, but usually open up through the landing zones. Many of the putting surfaces are protected by mounding or
greenside sand traps. Accommodations are nearby in Cadillac or Traverse City, and golfers also have an option
of staying at the Monroe Archers Farm Co. Bed & Breakfast which is a short countryside drive away. Golf
packages are available. For more info, call Emerald Vale or visit our page for the course, with direct link to their website by clicking here.
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