LAKES OF THE NORTH (231-585-6800)
Michigan Golf Course Review
Lakes of the North is one of the best golfing deals in the state. Upon checking out their rates we - probably like most golfers, were inclined to think that this must be "mom and
pop" golf. We found out differently! First of all the course features 5 sets of tees that measure 7004 yards. 6458 yard, 6002 yards, 5683 yards and 5004 yards. Those playing from
the white tee areas have nearly 6002 yards to navigate - though only 2 par fours measure 400 + yards.
So in the Gaylord area, one of the country's golf hotbeds, why such a value? Can't be the clubhouse... while simple in nature this facility provides a pro shop plus one of the area's
more popular restaurants, which serves lunch and dinner 7 days a week! There is an outdoor terrace - great for outings and special events, and a breakfast buffet is offered on
weekends during the season. A practice green and targeted grass range are also on property. Club rental, club repair and golf lessons are available. In fact the golf facilities cater
to the Lakes of the North Residential community, with a wide range of amenities available.
Okay so it is not the facilities that make golf here so "reasonable"... must be the course. The layout begins with a fairly level section on holes one through three, and in fact the
same is true of the initial holes on the back side. In-between however, golfers will find a mildly rolling terrain with a nice variety in design. There are some gradual elevation
changes from tee to green, and water comes into play on four holes. I was pleasantly surprised on my review round to encounter these undulations, and found this course to be a
lot of fun to play. It is set in a beautiful, secluded environment, and the conditioning from tee to green was quite good in early June.
The course is well marked with sprinkler heads measured to the center of the green, and with 150 yard stakes plus 100, 150 and 200 yard blocks in the fairways. Walking is
allowed at all times - and the layout is certainly conducive to that experience. The putting surfaces - while not fast, are well cared for and feature medium to large playing areas with
mild undulations. There are only 33 sand bunkers on the course - with many positioned greenside. In fact, only the sixth hole has a fairway bunker, and on the back side each
green complex features a sand trap strategically located on either side of the green. Most fronts are open, and mounding is understated - allowing for easy recovery and up and
down opportunities.
While the course can present a challenge in the form of distance and tree lined fairways, we found it to be player friendly - and a good confidence builder. There are some easy
holes mixed in with more challenging ones, making a round here enjoyable for all levels of players. So why the reasonable rate - all we can surmise is that the property is located
about 20 minutes from downtown Gaylord... off the beaten path. It is easy enough to get to however, just call the clubhouse or visit our page for Lakes of the North for a map &
directions, plus a link to their website. Click here.
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