STONY CREEK METROPARK GOLF COURSE (586-781-9166)
Michigan Golf Course Review 6/09/07
If you have not played Stony Creek Metropark Golf Course in the past couple of years - it may be worth your
while to check it out! This property has undergone considerable renovation, including the sculpting of bunkers
and tee boxes and in the general landscaping throughout the property. On my early June visit, the course was in great shape from tee to green.
The opening holes on both nines begin from slightly elevated tees and dogleg to the left. There are a
considerable amount of doglegs in this design, which also features a surprising degree of elevation changes.
The terrain is quite rolling, and there are no residential properties anywhere to be found, which gives this
course a very secluded feel. Strategic bunkering, tightly tree lined fairways, plus beautiful ponds and lakes that add to the allure and challenge.
There are four sets of tees that play to distances and slopes measuring 6928 yards/118 slope, 6485 yards/113
slope, 5595 yards (unrated) and 5015 yards with a slope of 108 from the red tees. I do not completely
understand the slope rating system - but this layout does not seem particularly easy from the blue or white tee
boxes. Length is required off the tee on many holes - including 7 par fours that play to 400 plus yards. The par
five 13th reaches 597 yards from the tips, while the par four 15th plays to 444 yards. More importantly, there are few straight forward holes so accuracy in placement in also required.
Water comes into play on six holes on the front and three on the backside, while approximately 30 sand bunkers
are positioned near the landing zones or greenside. The four par threes are all score-able golf holes, as they
range from 196 to 163 yards from the blues (and as short as 98 yards from the reds). Of this group, only the 163 yard 17th, with a pond resting precariously in front, presents a daunting challenge.
On course there are 100, 150 and 200 yard stakes on the fairways and the cart paths also provide these
measurements. Color coded flags indicate front, middle or back hole locations on these small to medium, mildly
sloping putting surfaces. Number 14 has one of the smallest putting surfaces I have ever seen - it is easy to
airmail this "postage stamp"! On property there is a pro shop plus snack area serving breakfast sandwiches and
hot & cold lunch items. A grass driving range is adjacent, as well as a putting/chipping green.
The Stony Creek course is one of the gems of the Metropark system. It is situated in a peaceful golf environment
, and the superintendent is obviously working hard to keep this layout in pristine condition. The design is
interesting and contrary to the advertised slope ratings, will provide a challenging and enjoyable experience for
most levels of players. For more info, visit our page for the course, with direct link to their website by clicking
here.
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