Courses, Travel & Tee Times

Black Forest was Michigan resident Doak's first acclaimed design, and he has risen in esteem ever since to stand with the premier architects of the game today. His “minimalist” approach is appreciated for its respect for existing terrain, a preference for shotmaking skills rather than unbridled power, and economical construction which helps keep golfers' fees reasonable.

Local golfers refer to Wilderness Valley as the “hidden gem.” The Al Watrous-designed course does not garner the publicity of its much-tougher Black Forest sister layout, but it's plenty “hard enough for most people,” according to Manager/Head Professional Corey Crowell. He also says, “Good players will have a good time.”

If you appreciate classic design on land that was naturally destined to become a superb golf course layout, you'll want to play Black Forest again and again. It is one of those rare golf courses you can never tire of playing because it will present you with a different look and challenge every time out.

Black Forest's greens are a marvelous equalizer. The bomber will quickly realize that position on the green with respect to the hole location is more important than brute force. And the player adept at chipping and approach putting will have numerous opportunities to win holes.