More than 10,000 voters from across the state weighed in on 101 things they love about Northern Michigan. Their votes determined over 300 Red Hot Best winners and 700 honorable mentions. Here you’ll find the top picks for most interesting Northern Michigan golf holes from Arcadia and Traverse City to Mackinac Island. Hit the links!

Red Hot Best Winner: Arcadia Bluff’s Lucky 13
If things don’t go well off the tee, it can be one of Northern Michigan’s most unforgiving golf holes. There is, after all, nothing but a ravine standing between you and the green. But we suspect that vexing hazard is why the 13th hole at Arcadia Bluffs won our readers’ affection for the region’s most interesting golf hole. We also suspect the beautiful backdrop drew votes, too. “It’s a pretty dramatic par 3 because you have this completely wide-open view of Lake Michigan off to your left,” says resident pro Zack Chapin. “It’s like golfing in Scotland, but without the flight and with better food.”

With the prevailing winds regularly coming off the lake in gusts of 30 m.p.h. or more, Chapin’s short on foolproof tips for conquering the 13th. “From the back tee, I’ve hit a driver before and not been able to make it. And I’ve hit a 7 or 8 iron and been just fine. My advice: Aim for the center of the green and be happy you made it.” Thanks, Zack. But no matter how your fortunes fair on the 13th, try to enjoy Chapin’s personal favorite—the par-4 14th. He says it still demands a good bit of accuracy, but at least this one has a fairway that won’t swallow a shanked tee shot whole.

Second Place: #15 The Bear, Grand Traverse Resort & Spa, Acme
You hit down from the trees and over the water. There isn’t another hole like it in Northern Michigan!

Third Place: #1 Little Traverse Bay Golf Course, Harbor Springs
Don’t get distracted by the incredible view of the bay!

The remaining Red Hot Best winners for most interesting golf hole in alphabetical order:

June cover 2017

 

Get your copy of the June 2017 issue of Traverse, Northern Michigan’s Magazine for the complete list of over 300 Red Hot Best winners! Subscribe and get the June issue plus 12 months of Traverse Magazine for year-round travel ideas and food recommendations!

 


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