For 40 years golfers everywhere have agreed that Treetops Resort in northern Michigan is one of the very best golf destinations in the country. Here are a few reasons you should put Treetops at the top of your must-visit bucket list.
First, the temperate summer climate is perfect for golf from April through September. Being near the 45th parallel means long days filled with abundant sunshine, plus those 70 degree days give way to pleasant evenings.
The average high temperature for the Gaylord, Michigan area in June, July and August is slightly above 67 degrees. When the balance of the country is sweltering in August, temperatures at Treetops barely reach over 77 degrees with a low of 60 degrees.
When asked about his the state of his game, Hall of Fame Cincinnati Reds catcher, turned professional golfer, Johnny Bench would answer,
“I play in the 60’s and 70’s. If it gets any hotter, or colder, I don’t play.”
Johnny would certainly enjoy Treetops in the summertime.
Second, the Threetops course at Treetops was one of the first par three courses at a golf resort and it is one of the most enjoyable short courses in the world.
After a trip to the Masters Tournament in 1990, Rick Smith, at the time the Head Professional at Treetops, pitched the idea of adding a par-3 course to the resort.
Small, slick greens, severe elevation changes and beautiful scenery make Threetops one of the best rounds of golf you will ever enjoy. It’s a must-play at the resort and set the trend for adding interesting short courses to golf destinations.
For several years, top name professionals came to Threetops to compete in a two-day tournament aired on ESPN. In 2001, Lee Trevino made a hole-in-one at the 7th hole to win a skin worth over one million dollars. It was the first time a single shot earned over $1 million in golf history.
Third, World Class designers like Robert Trent Jones Sr, Tom Fazio and Rick Smith have put their signatures on the courses at Treetops.
When the Jones Masterpiece opened in 1986, Golf Digest named it the second-best new course in the country. The course features deep ravines, pesky sand traps, tough pin placements, numerous water hazards, and dramatic elevation changes. The Jones Masterpiece is the most challenging course at the resort, but take time to look back up each fairway, as the course is almost as beautiful backwards as it is forward.
The Fazio Premier, was designed by Tom Fazio and opened for play in 1992. It is a special treat for guests of the resort as it is the only Fazio design in the state. The Premier’s rolling fairways and single water hazard, along with steep slopes and doglegs, is more forgiving than the Masterpiece, but will still provide a challenge for the most seasoned player.
Rick Smith is credited with designing both The Smith Signature, which opened for play in 1993 and The Tradition, opened in 1997. Both courses have won numerous awards from golf publications over the years.
With slopes, mounds and narrow fairways, the Signature course will keep every golfer on their toes. It’s the perfect blend between modern influence and classic designs from across the globe. In preparation to build the Signature, Smith traveled to Ireland and Scotland to study their historic courses.
The Tradition, which opened to the public in 1997, was built for the golfer who appreciates the value of walking. It was built on the principle of returning golf to a more relaxing atmosphere and the recent changes made in 2022, featured the removal of select trees, add to the Scottish links feel.
It is the most player-friendly course at the resort with less elevation change, wider fairways and a more natural landscape. The Tradition offers an open links feel. When hot summer days dry out the course it plays firm and fast, just like golf was meant to be.
Fourth, Treetops has recently completed a huge renovation to their accommodations to make them even more comfortable.
One satisfied guest said after his visit,
“Our rooms were comfortable with all new furnishings and bathrooms. The golf was spectacular as usual. Good job Treetops.”
The General Manager of Treetops Barry Owens told us,
“We are excited to make these improvements for our leisure guests in this new season, and our meeting and convention clients are looking forward to the improvements allowing for more comfort and an elevated experience in the Lodge and Inn during their stay.”
If you stay in the recently renovated Chalets at Treetops, test your putting skills on the putting green just outside the door.
Fifth, enjoy other outdoor activities such as, hiking, biking, fishing and swimming. Man does not live by golf alone. Play an enjoyable round in the morning and catch a spotted trout in the afternoon. Just lay by the pool, while sipping a cool beverage with a little umbrella in it, or go on an invigorating hike. There is a plethora of fun and exciting things to do at Treetops.
Sixth, with 17 direct flights into Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City, it’s easy to reach northern Michigan. Once you land it’s just a little over an hour’s drive to Treetops. Fly in the morning and you will still have plenty of time to get in 18 holes before sunset.
Seventh, Treetops is a year-round destination. Yes, there is fantastic golf at Treetops in the summer, but the resort also offers some of the best winter snow skiing in the Midwest. The resort actually began as a ski resort and added golf as a summer activity.
In addition to shushing down the slopes, Treetops also offers, extreme tubing, dog sledding, sleigh rides and a Skiable Feast. Whether skiing, or golfing, Treetops is all about family and fun times, with a side of cool.
Eighth, after working up an appetite Treetops offers a multitude of dining options. If golf, or skiing isn’t your thing, but unforgettable dining is, then Treetops has something for you.
Every day should start with a hearty breakfast, The Tavern on the Hill serves breakfast and lunch every day throughout golf season. As the only eatery at Treetops North, the Tavern on the Hill is a great place to grab a bite and a beer while you wait for your tee time.
When you are done for the day and need to chill, check out the Sports Bar with big screen televisions, pizza, sandwiches and your favorite cold beer on tap.
In addition to the various bars and restaurants on site, Treetops culinary team plans dozens of dining-focused special events throughout the year. The Beer, Blues and BBQ Festival features live music and great food. Every Thursday evening throughout golf season, hit a few golf balls with the golf pro at the Beat the Pro, Meet the Brewery.
In the Fall the color show at Treetops is second to none and the resort hosts the Fall Color Tour and Progressive Dinner. The chef keeps everyone warm and well fed in the Winter with The Skiable Feasts and Michigan Beer and Wine Festival.
Ninth, check out the relaxing Treetops Spa to soothe those achy muscles. If you are feeling a little sore from a day on the slopes or the golf course and need some TLC. Treetops’ spa offers a wide range of Massage Therapies, Body Treatments, Skin Care, Facials, Manicures and Pedicures. All are designed to soothe, pamper, relax, and de-stress your body, mind and spirit. Spa clients can also use the nautilus fitness room, hot tub, steam room and sauna during their visit.
Tenth, Competitive Pricing for ‘stay & play’ packages.
With 81 holes, 207 comfortable rooms, condos and cottages, plus incredible on-site restaurants, as well as plenty of other activities, Treetops has you covered. You and your group will have ample opportunities to enjoy a whole lot of play, exciting local cuisine, and even an impromptu spa day.
Visit https://www.treetops.com/deals/ to plan your visit, with the best pricing. Let the experienced staff at Treetops customize your package to plan the perfect vacation.
In summary, in addition to 81 holes of golf, plus outstanding skiing and snowmobiling in the winter, Treetops offers, a relaxing spa experience, a world-renowned par-3 course, instruction from experienced golf professionals, plus they provide the perfect setting for fairytale weddings, family reunions, or your next corporate meeting.
Roundup your favorite foursome, or family members and book a getaway to a resort that is perfect for any season and offers something for everyone in your group.
For more information and to book your stay visit: http://treetops.com/
