clear out brush, redesigned cart paths, and more. Even with all of these changes, the course still retains its original character and is now more playable than ever before. Betsie Valley is spread across the rolling terrain which is blanketed in mature forests of pine and hardwoods. Water comes into play on several holes, and although there are only a few bunkers on the entire course, the majority of golfers tend to find at least one during their rounds. The tight, tree-lined fairways are often accented with wildflowers and lead to small, severely sloped greens making Betsie Valley more of a shotmaker’s course. The Mountain Ridge course was carved from the mountainside, ranging from 6,973 to 5,018 yards to accommodate golfers of all abilities. With a course this beautiful there are many memorable holes but what I remember most are the par 3s; they were scenic, challenging, and fun to play. The second hole plays 143 yards, slightly downhill into an hourglass-shaped green with bunkers on either side as well as water on the left. The green is deeper than it is wide, so distance control is important. When it comes to lodging, Crystal Mountain offers a wide variety of accommodations. offering both a challenge and some terrific views. The golf course covers a range of elevation changes from subtle to spectacular. In total, navigating the course requires golfers to ascend over 200 feet during their round. Mountain Ridge is situated among huge Northern Michigan pine trees that frame many of the fairways and greens. Water is a predominant factor on the first four holes. Bunkers and sandy waste areas are more prevalent on Mountain Ridge than on Betsie Valley and usually factor into play. This course emphasizes brains over brawn, and having a sound strategy for each hole is important. Both Betsie Valley, Mountain Ridge offer four sets of tees and combo yardage with distances Indiana Golf Journal
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