Saugatuck, Michigan
Ravines is a pure Arnold Palmer/Ed Seay design that delivers demanding shot values and smooth-rolling greens in a rolling, wooded landscape. Expect a well-conditioned, regionally elite public course that rewards smart play and invites you to soak in a 'northern Michigan' atmosphere without the long drive upstate.
Head to Arnie’s Cottage after your round for a view of the 18th green and a classic Palmer drink—the ultimate spot for post-round storytelling.
Ravines Golf Club exemplifies Arnold Palmer’s late-1990s parkland philosophy: blend shotmaker-friendly risk-reward with a backdrop of rolling, wooded corridors and sandy soils that hint at Michigan’s northwoods charm. Expect a well-routed course where elevation changes, firm conditioning, and framed green sites demand respect off every tee and plenty of thought around each green. The layout’s flexibility comes through strong par-4s, bold par-5s, and a mix of long and short holes, all staying true to Palmer’s signature style—bold but playable for all.
Palmer and Seay gave Ravines their full modern treatment: every hole poses a new positional challenge, and bolders players can attack, but smart shot placement is essential to scoring.
This mid-iron par 3 is set amid towering trees, demanding an arrow-straight shot to a green guarded by bunkers left and back. The green slopes subtly, so approach angle and spin control are crucial.
Pick your line and stick to it—aiming for the heart of the green is the high-percentage play.
Anything left flirts with sandy bunkers; missing long brings a downhill recovery on slick turf.
Consistently excellent—turf is firm but receptive, with fast, pure greens and tidy fairways.
Busy during peak times, but off-peak or twilight rounds offer relaxed play; expect a four-and-a-half hour pace in season.
Polished yet laid-back public-resort feel—welcoming to all but with a championship edge.
Golf-appropriate attire; collared shirts recommended, but enforced with a light touch.
Arrive early to dial in your lag putting—the quick, undulating greens will put your touch to the test.
Reserve as far in advance as possible for morning or late-afternoon slots—peak weekend tee times fill fast.
You’ll use nearly every club in the bag here, from wedges on short par 4s to fairway woods and hybrids into the monster par 5s.
Cool, variable lake-influenced weather means it’s smart to bring outerwear for early starts or late finishes.
Course opens—Arnold Palmer/Ed Seay original design debuts as the first Palmer Signature venue in Southwest Michigan.
Golf Digest names Ravines the 'Best Conditioned Course in Michigan.'
Hosts a notable collegiate scramble event, becoming a staple for local tournaments and outings.
Ranks among GolfPass Top 25 US Courses for Conditioning and Layout.
Celebrates over 20 years as a popular regional golf destination.
Arnie’s Cottage isn’t just the grill room—it’s a homage to Palmer’s legacy, perched above the final green so you can savor a Palmer drink while watching groups finish on 18. Locals treat it as the perfect 19th hole, with stories of clutch birdies and partner collapses floating through the windows.
Standing on the first tee, you’re framed by pines and faced with an immediate demand for commitment—slice it and you'll find a trees-and-sand penalty to start the round. Golfers say making par here sets the tone for the entire day.
The 14th hole routinely leaves visitors awestruck and humbled. At 616 yards from the tips, only the truly brave try to reach in two—most play three thoughtful shots and hope to survive with par.
Ravines is celebrated for its green speed—so much so that tales of four-putts and miraculous lag saves are part of the post-round lore. Even frequent players admit the contours have just enough movement to make every approach a calculated risk.
Ravines is the first—and only—Arnold Palmer Signature course in Southwest Michigan.
The 14th is one of the longest par 5s in the Midwest at 616 yards.
Arnie’s Cottage overlooks the finishing green and serves the course’s signature Palmer drink.
The club was recognized for 'Best Conditioned' in Michigan by Golf Digest in 2008.
Trees, ravines, and elevation changes set the stage for every hole, channeling a true 'up north' Michigan vibe.
Challenging, highly regarded local alternative just minutes from Ravines
Transcendent solitude and shot values—one of Michigan’s best public layouts
Best area value and an excellent second 18
Ranked among Michigan’s modern elite—bold, open, fast, and fun
West Michigan favorite blending challenge with great conditions
Saugatuck or Douglas for course access, food, and Lake Michigan atmosphere
Courses with the most similar DNA profile — matched by deviation shape across all eight playing characteristics.
Why it matches: If Ravines Golf Club is your kind of course, Four Streams is worth a look because it puts the same premium on presentation.
Why it matches: If Ravines Golf Club is your kind of course, Covered Bridge Golf Club is worth a look because it puts the same premium on presentation.
Why it matches: If Ravines Golf Club is your kind of course, Trump National Doral Miami – Red Tiger Course is worth a look because it puts the same premium on presentation.
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