Harbor Springs, Michigan
Arthur Hills at The Highlands is a bold, modern resort test—strong on variety, elevation, and visuals—with one of Michigan’s rare par-73 layouts. Expect five formidable par 5s, striking scenery, and a challenging but accessible design that rewards precision as much as power. It’s a regionally elite, bucket-list public round for Midwestern golf aficionados.
Pause at the 13th tee for panoramic views—locals say it’s the highest point and best photo op on the course.
Arthur Hills at The Highlands showcases the architect’s signature balance of playability and challenge, with broad landing areas leading into narrowing approaches, expansive bunkering, and some of Michigan’s boldest elevation changes. Routed through rolling, heavily wooded terrain, the course pairs visual drama with strategic demand—particularly across its five par 5s and the continually changing topography. The result is a memorable and modern parkland layout that feels grand yet accessible, ideal for both seasoned travelers and ambitious resort guests.
Arthur Hills’ knack for combining elevated drama with resort accessibility is on display throughout—expect wide openings for everyday play, then narrowing threats as you near the pins, capped by spectacular highland vistas.
The longest par 5 on the course asks for three composed shots to reach a well-guarded green, with the widest landing area off the tee giving way to narrowing options as you chart your route home. The hole epitomizes Hills’ classic invitation to take what the course gives—then punishes the reckless.
Play for position on your layup, set up your preferred wedge distance, and don’t chase the green in two unless you can shape a fade around the bunkers.
Bunkers and narrowing fairway pinch the aggressive line; overcooking the second or third can leave a blind recovery.
Consistently polished, with true greens and crisp fairways.
Standard resort pace—plan for a steady but not speedy four-and-a-half hour round.
Friendly, recreation-forward resort energy with championship course presentation.
Typical golf attire expected; collared shirts recommended.
Weather in northern Michigan can turn quickly—layers and a rain shell are wise even in summer.
You’ll face multiple tough par 3s at over 200 yards from the back tees; confidence here is a game-changer.
The scorecard’s five par 5s and elevation swings make for lots of awkward numbers—yardage book or GPS helps avoid unforced errors.
Original Harbor Highlands ski area opens
Boyne Highlands Resort launches as a year-round destination
Arthur Hills course debuts with initial 9 holes
Completion and minor redesign—course at full 18 holes
Ranked No. 25 in Michigan by Golf Digest
Noted upgrades to bunkers, turf, and cart paths
Ranked No. 34 in Michigan by Golf Digest
Starting at the 11th, you begin a climb that carries you to one of the highest points in lower Michigan, with the 13th tee rewarding you with spectacular panoramic views. The holes combine physical challenge with scenic rewards, a highlight that golfers remember long after the round.
Five legitimate par 5s make this one of Michigan’s only true par-73 championship courses. This unique set-up gives big hitters a reason to get aggressive but forces every player to strategize as well as swing hard.
The opening of the Arthur Hills course in 1995 is credited with cementing The Highlands as a premier golf destination, offering public access to an elite-caliber design alongside the area’s ski and outdoor pursuits. Its completion marked the Highlands’ arrival as a regionally essential golf resort.
Players note how the routing’s elevation changes force a constant reevaluation of club selection and trajectory. Even resort regulars say the Arthur Hills course always keeps you guessing—no two approach shots feel the same.
This is one of Michigan’s few par 73 layouts, distinct for its five par 5s.
The 13th tee is at one of the highest points in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula.
No two par 5s play alike, each demanding different decision-making.
The course was the final major addition that transformed The Highlands into a multi-course destination.
A full-scale bunker, turf, and path upgrade was completed in 2023.
Lakeside drama; one of Michigan’s ultimate public courses.
Robert Trent Jones classic—major pedigree and parkland beauty.
Faithful recreations of Ross’s greatest holes in one round.
Varied shotmaking and forgiving design; great for a warm-up or doubleheader.
Affordable local favorite with relaxed vibes and pretty scenery.
Harbor Springs or Petoskey for easiest access to all top courses.
Courses with the most similar DNA profile — matched by deviation shape across all eight playing characteristics.
Why it matches: If Arthur Hills at the Highlands is your kind of course, Ballyowen Golf Club is worth a look because it a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character.
Why it matches: There is real overlap here. Château Élan Golf Club a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character, making it a compelling counterpart to Arthur Hills at the Highlands.
Why it matches: There is real overlap here. The Legend at Giants Ridge a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character, making it a compelling counterpart to Arthur Hills at the Highlands.
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