Treetops Golf Resort in Gaylord Michigan – Some of Northern Michigan’s Best Golf.
Treetops Golf Resort is probably the most recognizable golf resort in Northern Michigan. With 81 spectacular holes of golf, over 238 hotel rooms and condos, a spa, salon and over 25,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, it’s no wonder Treetops Resort is a popular venue for business conferences, reunions and weddings. In the winter, it’s a fantastic ski resort, with 23 expertly groomed ski runs, exciting terrain and 20 kilometers of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. During the summer, it’s not all about golf, although there is plenty of it. There are plenty of other family activities include mountain biking, fly fishing, tennis, disc golf and horseback riding.
As a golf resort, Treetops Resort is not without its share of accolades from the golf world. Golf Magazine has awarded it their Silver Medal Award as one of the finest resorts in the United States, 7-times. In 2002, Treetops was ranked #32 in America’s Top 75 Golf Resorts by Golf Digest and in June 2000, Conde Nast Traveler recognized them as one of the Top 50 International Resorts. Only Pinehurst and Pebble Beach were ranked higher for 
Golf Design by Conde Nast that year. Each year, Treetops has been consistently awarded at least 4 stars by Golf Digest Places to Play. Three of the industry’s top golf architects – Tom Fazio (Premier), Robert Trent Jones Sr. (Masterpiece) and Rick Smith (Signature, Tradition and Threetops) have all put their names on courses at Treetops.
The Jones Masterpiece Course is the only course located on the main resort property and was the first course built at Treetops. The Masterpiece Course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and is the most scenic of the group, which is saying something. Many people believe that if there was one course that put Gaylord on the map as a golf destination, this is the one. At 147, Masterpiece has one of the highest slope ratings in all of Michigan, so it’s going to require your strict attention, but not so much that you can’t take in the beautiful scenery as you make your way around. In fact, it’s the scenery that makes the Masterpiece such a hit with the ladies. Ask any woman you see on the course what she remembers most about the course and it will most likely have nothing to do with pin placement or forced carries, it will be about the scenery, specifically the leaves changing color if the question is posed in the fall.
If you keep the ball under control and don’t try and bite off more than you can chew, you can score well here, especially on the par 5s. From the White tees, they play anywhere from 435 – 500 yards, so getting there isn’t the problem. The problem is keeping the ball in the fairway. Number 6 is a memorable par three that plays 162 yards from the Blue tees, but actually up to 4 clubs less because of the 120 ft. drop and the wind. This is the hole that put golf in Northern Michigan on the map. Practice facilities at the Jones Masterpiece Course include a grass driving range, short game area with practice bunker, and putting green. Regardless of how you play, it’s hard to not enjoy your round on the Jones Masterpiece Course.
The other three courses can be found at Treetops North, about a 7-minute drive up the road.
The Signature was the second 18-hole layout built on the resort property. It was also the first golf course design of Rick Smith who then went on to design the Tradition Course and Threetops. All three courses are located at Treetops North. Smith used insight and knowledge from his trips to Scotland and Ireland to help him shape the Signature Course, giving it the feel of some of the world’s best courses. The Signature has received several honors, including recognition by Golf Magazine as one of the Midwest’s best courses. As 
with the other courses at Treetops, you’ll find rolling hills, sand traps, and elevation changes, both up and down. With all of its magnificent views, The Signature Course may be the most photographed course at the resort. It is the overwhelming favorite of both locals and visitors. At 420 yards from the Blue Tees, Number 13 is one of the most challenging holes on the entire property. It plays uphill making it even longer than the stated yardage. Favor the left side off the tee for the best angle into the green. Take at least on extra club to get there and avoid the two bunkers on the right side.
The Premier Course at Treetops Resort is the only Tom Fazio-designed golf course in the state of Michigan and is as challenging as it is forgiving. When asked which hole on the course was his favorite, Fazio, who was handpicked by Rick Smith to design The Premier Course, replied, “All of them!” The Premier is very “player-friendly” with many wide open rolling fairways, some of which are bowl-shaped, which helps correct errant tee shots. Such is the case on the par 4, 7th hole that plays 333 yards from the Blue tees. The 
slopes on either side of the fairway funnel the ball back to the middle. Don’t let the short length fool you; it will take 1 – 3 extra clubs to get to the green. Make sure you take enough to get there; you don’t want to be short. Water rears its ugly head on only one hole – the par 3 11th. Keep it left off the tee and the slope should bring it back to the green. Fives sets of tees offer yardages from 4,945 to 6,832 making the course playable for golfers of all levels.
Threetops: If you’re looking to take the kids to a par 3 course where they can learn the game, this isn’t that place! Threetops is the former site of the ESPN Par 3 Shootout and has challenged the likes of Nicklaus, Palmer, Mickelson, Couples and Floyd. The 7th hole is where Lee Trevino had his $1,000,000 hole-in-one. Designed by renowned teacher Rick Smith, every hole is unique, and course conditions are the same as any of the championship 18-hole courses on the property. Seven of the nine holes play downhill – some extremely downhill – and water comes into play on one hole, the 6th. From the back tees the holes play between 140 and 219 yards although the latter is straight downhill and plays more in the 155 yard range. Getting on the greens is the easy part; making a one – or in many cases a two – putt can be quite the challenge. Some of the greens are severe, there’s a lot of undulation and break that you may not see at first glance. Threetops is a must play if you’re on a golf trip to Gaylord, whether you are staying at Treetops or somewhere else. Stop by, relax and enjoy the best that God’s Country has to offer. You can get around Threetops in about 90 minutes.
Two other qualities necessary to qualify as a great golf resort are good dining options – preferably with a good assortment of adult beverages – and amicable accommodations. On either point, Treetops does not disappoint. As for dining options, Treetops offers three restaurants, all located within steps of each other: Legends on the Hill, Hunter’s Grille and the Sports Bar. Between the three, they offer over 100 craft beers and are committed to introducing guests to Michigan craft beers and wines. The food is outstanding and, in many respects, unique. The Sports Bar serves Poutine, I’m sure to quell the appetites of their Canadian guests. Hunter’s Grille offers Irish Nachos, an appetizer that could be easily be considered a meal. Slices of crispy baked potato slices topped with corned beef, white cheddar, mozzarella, Thousand Island dressing and sour cream. Absolutely delicious.
As far as the rooms in the lodge go, I’ve never stayed in anything as large that wasn’t a suite. Rooms are equipped with a refrigerator, microwave and coffeemaker as well as a work area and large flat screen TV. Bathrooms are extra large and feature a large, walk-in shower. Also in the lodge is an indoor pool, hot tubs and a fitness center as well as the Treetops Spa. Bar 81 is located on the main floor and has a number of TVs, making it a perfect spot to relax with your favorite beverage and watch your favorite sports team after a round of golf.
Treetops is located about 5 miles east of Gaylord and only 10 minutes from I-75, making it an easy place to get to. For more information on this outstanding golf resort, visit their website at www.treetops.com.
evolved as well. For example, their Flat Front Plaid Pants are sewn from their Stay-Dri moisture wicking fabric that wicks moisture away from your body to keep you cool and dry throughout your round. The front pockets are cut on a diagonal to give easy access and the back pockets have flaps and are large enough for most scorecards. They are available in waist sizes 30 – 44 and in Little Boy Blue and Bright White. Retail price is $65.
keep cool, comfortable and well protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The two front and two back pockets are deep enough to keep all of your valuable golf tools safe and secure. These Heathered Plaid Stretch Golf Shorts are available in waist sizes 32 – 42 and in Crown Blue or Bright White. They too retail for $65.
to give you full range of motion, and Stay Screen, to keep protected from the sun. The self-collar, 3-button placket and trim on the collar and sleeves complete the classic golf look. The iconic Golden Bear logo on the chest tells everyone your favorite golf brand. The Driflow Classic-Fit Solid Performance Golf Polo comes in sizes S – XXL and in 10 different colors including Gogi Berry, Electric Blue Lemonade, and Pink Lady. Retail price is $60.
The all-over liquid print with contrasting waistband is as eye-catching as it is fun to look at and the convenient open pockets with stylish reflective piping can hold all your golf necessities. The Women’s Liquid Pink Printed Skort is available in sizes XS – XXL and in either Brilliant White or River Blue. Retail price is $80.
jacket into separate patterns and the seams split across in arching and straight lines. There’s a Chevron TPU logo on the back of the color. The Opti-Dri Heathered Panel Jacket is available in sizes XS – XXL and in either Highrise Heather or Blue Print Heather. Retail price is $75.
How about a mid-layer pullover that lasts longer than that inclement weather you teed off in? Callaway’s Outlast Premium Mid-Layer Pullover lets you tackle bad weather head on with style and comfort. The jacket features Outlast technology, which proactively manages the build-up of heat and moisture to keep you cool in warmer weather and warm in cold weather, keeping you comfortable all day long and into the night. Callaway’s Opti-Dri moisture wicking technology pulls sweat away from your body so you can cool down in the heat, and the extra bit of stretch in the fabric allows your arms freedom of motion to produce a fluid swing. Add in skin superior protection against the sun’s UV rays and you’ve got a garment that will Outlast any garment on the market. The Outlast Pullover features a mock collar and ¼ zip design with the Callaway
Tour logo on the left sleeve. It’s available in sizes S – XXXL and in Bright White, Caviar, Peacoat, Quiet Shade, Surf the Web, or Tango Red. It’s also available in big and tall sizes too.
For ladies who enjoy playing in the cool of the morning, The Pace Women’s Sun Shirt is worth checking out. It looks great on its own or paired with other pieces in the collection. Chase54’s COOLFUZE cooling technology is spun from Xylitol embedded cooling yarn and never washes out. Print power mesh panels provide added cooling and the UPF 50+ sun protection keeps the sun’s harmful rays at bay. The Pace Sun Shirt is available in sizes XS – XXL and retails for $85.
Chase54 will have the guys looking great on the course this spring too. The Rough short sleeve polo has great moisture wicking properties and added sun protection. The fabric has some extra stretch and you don’t have to worry about pooping a seam because they have been reinforced with topstitching. The Rough Polo features a self-collar with removable powder coated collar stays and a 3-button placket. The allover diamond print design is very subtle and adds to an already great looking design. It’s available in sizes S – XXL and in either Colony Blue or Raspberry with a retail price of $75.
Driflux is moisture wicking technology designed to keep you cool and dry and Sunflux is a finish that prohibits the sun’s harmful UV rays from penetrating the soft, lightweight fabric. Through in Airflux, a ventilated fabric that keeps you cool by allowing air to circulate through the garment, and you’ve got golf apparel worthy of the brand’s name!
Sleeveless Polo is available in sizes S – XL and pairs perfectly with Driflux Tropical Shades Print Golf Skort.
PGA TOUR has some great gear for the guys too. Men’s Heather Grid Flat Front Golf Short feature an active waistband that incorporates all-around stretch that optimizes range of motion and enhances comfort. Technologically it’s a hit too, with Motionflux and Sunflux. The two front pockets are deep and secure and the back pockets can accommodate most scorecards. The plaid grid pattern on the heathered fabric pops with a bold color running through the middle of each horizontal and vertical line. The quality and design of these shorts make them the perfect choice for thee links or a neighborhood barbecue. The Men’s Heather Grid Flat Front Golf Short are available in White, Grey, Caviar Black and Pacific blue in sizes 32 – 42.
and stay protected from the sun at the same time. The active waistband that moves with you for unbelievable comfort and the stylish seersucker design with a tropical print id sure to bring jealous stares from your playing partners. Two front pockets and two back welt pockets add style and ample room for all your golf necessities. The Tropical Print Seersucker Shorts are available in sizes 32 – 42 and in Pacific Blue, White and Grey.
PGA TOUR makes several great looking polos for men; everything from solid colors, stripes, prints and in some cases a combination! They are lightweight, breathable and will have you looking good on the course or late into the evening. Most are available in sizes S – XXL and make a great addition to any golf wardrobe.
Two years later, Chicago Bears quarterback Jim McMahon was often seen sporting his Revos and ever since it’s been “game on!” Sports stars and celebrities such as Bono, Danica Patrick and Tom Cruise have all become fans.
A few years ago, Revo developed a “golf specific” lens, which excels at separating colors down to minute levels of contrast and can help you identify the subtle break of a green. The new Descend N sunglasses are one of several models designed with golfers in mind. Its rimless design offers a wider field of vision and the lightweight frame makes them a breeze to wear the entire round. They feature a more curved profile, temple to temple and the MotionFit design ensures a secure fit without any pinching or slipping. In addition to Golf, Revo’s high-contrast polarized Serilium+ lenses are available in several other color options: Blue Water, Graphite, Terra, Green Water, or Champagne and Black, Crystal, Crystal Brown, or Blush frame colors. The Descend N sunglasses retail for $179.
Another pair of Revos worthy of your consideration for golf are the Baseliner sunglasses. Although they don’t offer a Golf lens, Revo’s Baseliner sunglasses have become my “go to” pair of shades for golf. They offer great coverage from the sun and the modern wrap style is designed to be ultra-lightweight and comfortable. Throw in Revo’s superior polarized lenses and elastomeric non-slip nose pads, and you’re good to go for at least 18 holes. Revo’s Light Management System filters out harmful UV, HEV, and blue light. The Baseliners are available in either a Crystal Gray or 
Matte Black frame with Blue Water, Green Water, or Graphite colored lenses. These glasses look and feel so good, you can have them on all day and forget you’re wearing them. Retail price is $199.
Southern Charm Collection, colors such as Serenity, Purple Passion and Harmony over top of Summer Navy and White. This is an old school collection for today’s modern man of style.
Egyptian cotton. A contrasting knit collar and 3-button placket complete the classic golf look. And in colors such as Harmony, Navy, Purple Passion, Serenity, and White, you’re not likely to go unnoticed. The Bliss Luxe Mercerized Polo is available in sizes S – 3X.
Another great looking cool weather piece is the Luxe Pima Raglan Sleeve Crew Sweater. It’s a solid sweater that will stand the test of time and please even the most fervent cotton purist. Crafted from soft and strong pure pima cotton with raglan sleeves for freedom of movement, this soft to the touch garment is available in soothing tones of Harmony and Serenity. It’s available in sizes S – 3X.
pockets are deep enough to keep valuables safe and secure and the back pockets can accommodate most score cards. The color selection is improved too with 8 to choose from. The St. Charles Shorts are available in sizes 30 -44 and have a 9-1/2″ inseam.
My lack of enthusiasm for Tom Doak-designed golf courses changed after I finished playing the first round of his latest creation – the reversible Loop Course at Forest Dunes Golf Club in Rosscommon Michigan. This is one – make that two – incredible golf courses!
ownership and there was an interest in adding a second course. Several months later a deal was struck and Doak and his Renaissance team got to work. Very little earth was moved in creating The Loop. Doak did a great job of using the subtilties in the natural topography of the land to shape the holes and arrange them in a clockwise/counterclockwise direction.
The Loop is as close to Scotland as you can get without using a passport and is reminiscent of some of the great courses in the home of golf. It’s a walking only course, no motorized carts are allowed on the course. Guests may carry their own bag or use a push cart. A third option is to take a caddie. If you’re out to shoot your best score or take money from your buddies, this is a wise move, as their knowledge of the golf course and green complexes may prove a valuable resource.
The Red Course plays counterclockwise around The Loop. Your round starts to the right of the 18th green and plays to the red flag in the distance. You play to the red flags on the front nine and the white flags on the back. If all else fails and you lose your way, just keep to the right.
The Black Course plays clockwise around the property. The round starts left of the 18th green and plays to the white flag in the distance. With this routing, you play to white flags on the front nine, and the red flags on the back, just like you were playing The Old Course at St. Andrews. If you ever get to the point where you’re not sure of which way to go, just keep to the left!
Last Word: The Loop takes golfers back to the simple origins of golf. Hazards typically found in the US are limited; there is no water on the course and only a few man-made bunkers. And, although the course is situated within a state forest, very few trees come into play. There is no first or second cut of rough; if you don’t see your ball when you get up to it, you’re in trouble. That said, there is still an unbelievable amount of trouble in the form of natural wastelands formed over a long period of time and areas of native fescue grasses.
The fairways on The Loop are wide open, especially off the tee, giving you the opportunity to just swing away and hit it as far as you can. This can be both good and bad because The Loop has some of the most intriguing green complexes you will ever encounter. Often there a huge advantage to approaching the green from one side of the fairway and the green complexes require you to hit a variety of shots and be creative if you want to get your ball close to the hole. It really does require a lot of mental acuity to get around the course successfully.
In this age of customization and have it your way, you can share in the design and build of your new Yamaha PTV. Simply go to their website listed below and click on Build Your Own. This will allow you to select gas or electric, the car color, seat color, sun top color and the wheels and any accessories you want to include. Members of the LPGA Amateur Golf Association – formerly the EWGA – are urged to go on the 
