INDIAN RIVER GOLF CLUB ( 800-305-4742)
Review 6/29/04
Indian River Golf Club in Northern Michigan near Petoskey is a 3-1/2 star championship layout (Golf Digest) that
often has been referred to as the "best kept secret in the north". Nestled between Burt and Mullet lakes, this
Warner Bowen design features nicely conditioned fairways and greens and plays along a mildly undulating
terrain that includes a variety of level and raised putting complexes. Most fairways provide ample landing areas
between the rows of virgin pine that often define the layout. Though understated, 30 manicured sand bunkers and
4 pretty water hazards add to the beauty and challenge. Two of the most beautiful holes are the 8th and 18th -
which feature greens that are fronted by the same lake, as pictured in the photographs below.
The facilities on property include a magnificent clubhouse with a pro shop and a spacious and well appointed
restaurant/lounge that is open from 7 AM to 10 PM. Lunch is served daily, breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays,
and dinner Thursday, Friday and Saturday. A putting green is located just beyond the outdoor patio, and a
driving range is also available. The seating at the restaurant and patio combined can accommodate large
groups for outings and special events. From the terrace golfers are afforded a nice view of the 9th green, and of
the first hole in the distance which plays along one of the most sloped fairways on the course.
On course players will find the layout well marked with 100, 150 and 200 yardage blocks in the fairways, plus red
100 yard and white 150 yard stakes on the sides of cart paths. Some sprinkler heads are also measured to the
center of the green, and small flags indicate front, middle and back pin placements. Hole diagrams are provided
at each tee area. Four sets of tees measure 6692 yards/ 125 slope, 6143 yards/122 slope, 5380 yards/114
slope and 5167 yards with a 118 slope rating for women. With rates topping out at under $60 during prime time
in 2004, this is a good bargain for Northern Michigan. Twilight prices begin at 1 PM ($39) with super rates at
$25 including cart after 4 PM. The property is easy to get to - just north of the town of Indian River, minutes of I-75
and a 30 minute drive from Gaylord, Petoskey and Mackinaw City. For more information, visit our page for Indian River with a link to their website by clicking here.
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