This place looks epic. A peaceful golf paradise that not even your slice can disturb. Forest Dunes is a hidden gem in northern Michigan’s Huron National Forest. A secluded, golf-focused resort in Roscommon. Pristine natural surroundings, massive dunes, mature pines, and two world-class courses that deliver variety and innovation. Featuring Tom Weiskopf’s classic parkland gem and Tom Doak’s revolutionary reversible “The Loop,” it’s pure Midwest bucket-list territory. Firm and fast conditions, strategic shot-making, epic scenery, and that remote “up north” escape vibe.

Quick Facts

  • Two championship 18-hole courses (plus The Loop’s dual routings) + Bootlegger (10-hole par-3 short course) + putting greens
  • Unique designs: Weiskopf’s forested-to-dunes transition; Doak’s fully reversible 18 (Red counterclockwise one day, Black clockwise the next, same holes, different experience!)
  • Seasonal play: Mid-April to late October; peak summer/fall for long days (golf until 9pm+ in summer) and prime conditions
  • Public resort access: Stay-and-play focus with priority tees; top-ranked public gems (Forest Dunes often Top 50 nationally, The Loop in top 100 public lists)
  • Secluded luxury: On-site lodging (lodge, villas, cottages), dining, and golf-only immersion with no distractions, just great golf

For those who are into local lore, there have been many reported sightings of the Michigan Dogman in the Huron Forest. Part dog, part man, with glowing eyes and a piercing howl. He’s like Michigan’s bigfoot.

Perfect For…

  • Guys’ Trips: Multi-round marathons (play The Loop Red one day, Black the next for “two courses in one”), post-golf fireside beers, stargazing in the dark skies, and friendly bets on creative holes
  • Families: Relaxed short-course fun (Bootlegger par-3), spacious villas/cottages for groups, nature vibes; non-golfers enjoy forest walks or nearby lakes

Top Standout Courses

Forest Dunes Course (Tom Weiskopf)

The original star, a Top 50 public course nationally with wide fairways, large greens, and two personalities: front nine through dense Huron National Forest pines, back nine opening to dramatic glacial sand dunes. Elevation shifts up to 100 feet, risk-reward holes, and a fun 19th-hole par-3 for settling matches. Classic, challenging, and beautifully conditioned.

The Loop (Tom Doak Red & Black Routings)

North America’s only fully reversible 18-hole course. Same 18 fairways/greens, but switch directions daily (Red counterclockwise, Black clockwise). Firm, fast inland-links style with undulating terrain, wild grasses, strategic bunkers, and clever angles. Play it twice for completely different experiences; innovative, fun, and highly acclaimed as a modern masterpiece.

Bootlegger (10-Hole Par-3 Short Course)

Quick, creative fun. 1,100 yards of pitch-and-putt-style holes (par-3s from short to longer), inspired by 1920s local history. Grab a few clubs, cold drinks, and enjoy casual rounds or warm-ups with music and vibes.

Great Stay-and-Play Resorts & Spots

  • Lake AuSable Lodge: Cozy, steps from tees and clubhouse
  • Villas & Cottages: Spacious options for groups (2-8 people), kitchens, lake or course views
  • Stay-and-play packages include lodging, rounds (priority on both courses), practice access, and perks; book direct for best deals

All Key Forest Dunes Golf Highlights at a Glance

  • Forest Dunes Course (Weiskopf parkland/dunes classic)
  • The Loop (Doak reversible Red/Black innovation)
  • Bootlegger (10-hole par-3 short course)
  • Plus massive practice areas, putting course, and future SkyFall private access for guests

Pro Tips

  • Book stay-and-play packages early via forestdunesgolf.com; fills fast in peak summer/fall; includes multi-round options and replays
  • Fly into Traverse City (TVC) 1.5 to 2 hours drive, or Detroit (DTW)/Grand Rapids (GRR) for longer scenic routes
  • Pair golf with northern Michigan favorites: fresh cherries, local breweries, hiking, or epic stargazing away from city lights
  • Embrace firm conditions (run the ball!); use caddies for strategy on The Loop; forward tees make it accessible for all

Time to get lost in the forest, play reversible magic, and reset with pure golf immersion. Forest Dunes is calling your name.

Need Help Booking Your Next Golf Trip? Fill Out The Form Below.