Golf the Upper Peninsula
Where Natural Beauty and National Acclaim Meet
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has officially claimed its place among America’s elite golf destinations, landing #5 on USA TODAY’s 10Best Golf Destinations list for 2025. And it’s easy to see why. With more than 50 public courses scattered across a landscape of wild forests, inland lakes and Great Lakes shorelines, the U.P. offers a golf experience that’s as pure and challenging as the terrain it inhabits. It’s where you trade traffic noise for the call of a loon — where every round feels like an escape.
What sets U.P. golf apart from other American courses
It isn’t just the quantity of courses — it’s the quality of the experience. The region’s golf is defined by elevation changes, pristine greens and courses designed to flow with the natural environment. Expect wide-open fairways carved between giant pines, greens flanked by ancient rock formations and panoramic views that make it hard to keep your eye on the ball. Unlike overbooked resorts in other parts of the country, tee times in the U.P. are flexible, affordable and often available on short notice. Golfers who visit the U.P. are consistently surprised by the value of the experience. The green fees are modest, often under $50 for 18 holes!
When is the best time to play golf in the U.P.
The seasons here add to the magic. Golf typically begins in late May and stretches into early October. Spring brings waves of bright wildflowers and peaceful, crowd-free mornings. Summer offers warm temperatures, long daylight hours and lush fairways under bluebird skies. And fall? Fall is when the U.P. transforms into a painting — brilliant red, orange and gold treetops surround your every swing, creating an absolutely stunning golf experience. The U.P. is not only among USA TODAY’s 10Best Golf Destinations, but it’s USA TODAY’s top fall foliage destination. You will know why when you bring your clubs between September and October.
What are the most celebrated golf courses in the U.P.
Timberstone Golf Course | Pine Mountain Resort | Iron Mountain
Designed by Jerry Matthews, this course has been recognized by Golfweek and GolfMichigan.com for its strategic layout and breathtaking landscape. The course stretches over 7,000 yards of rolling hills, pine stands and Northwoods tranquility.
Greywalls | Marquette Golf Club | Marquette
The course’s granite outcroppings, elevation drops and panoramic views make it one of Michigan’s most visually arresting courses. Golfweek ranks it as the second-best course in the entire state.
Sweetgrass Golf Club | Island Resort & Casino | Harris
Sweetgrass consistently ranks among the best courses in the Midwest. It is a championship-level experience with a parkland layout, water hazards and green complexes that both reward and challenge. It also tells the cultural story of the Hannahville Indian Community, with each hole representing Potawatomi clans and legends.
Sage Run | Island Resort & Casino | Harris
This newer course threads through ridges and hardwoods. Designed by Paul Albanese, it’s quickly earning praise from national publications like Golf Digest.
Keep the game fun with these U.P. golfing experiences
You don’t have to be a scratch golfer to have a great time in the Upper Peninsula. Most of our courses are designed to match your skill level — and your desire for adventure. Whether you plan to chase waterfalls, hike forest trails, explore old mines or soak in mountaintop views, you will find the perfect fit. Consider adding these courses to your itinerary or the dozens of others listed further below:
The Jewel | Mackinac Island
This course will rank at the top of your unforgettable experiences chart. It starts by connecting to some sections of the course riding in a horse-drawn carriage! You’ll start your round near the Grand Hotel, wind your way to elevated views of the Mackinac Bridge, and pass through dense forests and open meadows.
Wild Bluff | Bay Mills Resort & Casino | Brimley
Play 18-holes with incredible views of Lake Superior along the way. Five tee boxes per hole keep everyone on your team in the game.
Ontonagon Golf Club | Ontonagon
This nine-hole course welcomes veteran golfers to those just learning to swing a club. It’s the perfect place to work on your game and make new friends.
L’Anse Golf Club | L’Anse
This is a great course to bring your kids or grandkids to help them fall in love with the game. Its nine holes offer terrific views, three tee boxes at each hole match everyone’s level and the staff happily offers tips for playing your best round.
Calumet Golf Club | Calumet
This nine-hole course provides beautiful views of Lake Superior and delicious food before or after play.
Plan Your Golfing Getaway
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple or part of a larger group, you’ll find nearby lodging options that fit your travel preferences and budget. Several courses, such as Timberstone, Sweetgrass, Sage Run and others, offer stay-and-play packages that simplify planning and maximize your time on the course. And when your round is done, you’re not far from a craft brewery, whitefish dinner or trailhead into the woods.
As you make plans, check individual course websites listed below for tournament dates, events and available tee times. No matter your handicap, your swing speed or your preference for riding versus walking, the Upper Peninsula offers a kind of golf you won’t find anywhere else. So, pack your clubs and head to the U.P. There’s a tee box waiting.