LAKESIDE LINKS (231-843-3660)
Michigan Golf Course Review 9/09/06
Lakeside Links near Ludington is a 27-hole championship links style design that presents one of the most
affordable golf experiences in NW Michigan. Weekend rates including cart in 2006 topped out at under $40! The
West, South and East nines feature wonderful conditioning on bent grass greens, tees and fairways, along a surprisingly rolling terrain.
The photo images in this review are of the West and South layouts, both of which play along tree-lined fairways
with generous landing areas, that lead to some rather demanding green complexes. The putting surfaces are
medium in size but are undulating and raised, and are frequently tucked into mounding or tightly forested areas.
The West Course plays to 2882, 2709, and 2274 yards while the East - which is a bit more open than the other
two layouts, plays to 2884, 2657 and 2634 yards. The South is the longer and the most challenging of the three
nines, as the three sets of tees measure 3556, 3376 and 2634 yards. Slope ratings vary from 111 to 126, affording a fun yet challenging experience for all levels of players.
On property is a clubhouse with pro shop and snack area/lounge serving hot & cold sandwiches and beverages.
There is a large practice green, and we were told a driving range is in the plans for the 2007 season. On course
there are 100 and 150 yard blocks and 150 yard stakes in the fairways on all par fours and fives. Color coded flags indicate front middle and back pin placements.
The West/South design features numerous doglegs bending in either direction, and water comes into play on 4
holes of the West and 4 on the south, with only the short par four 6th providing the only water hazard on the east
nine. Bunkering is understated at Lakeside Links, with about 3 dozen sand traps strategically located greenside
or along the fairways. This is a pretty layout, with significant natural areas and abundant wildlife. We highly
recommend a round here...perfect for the initial round on a trip up north. For more info, visit our page for Lakeside Links, with direct link to their website by clicking here.
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