Boyne Highlands Heather Golf Course.
The Heather Golf Course at Boyne Highlands
The Heather Golf Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and opened in 1966, is celebrated for its strategic layout and natural beauty. Located in Boyne Highlands, Michigan, it seamlessly integrates the surrounding landscape with thoughtfully crafted holes that challenge golfers of all skill levels.
The design showcases undulating greens and extensive bunkering, emphasizing the importance of shot placement. The course measures around 6,800 yards from the championship tees, featuring various tee options to accommodate different abilities. Each hole is uniquely designed to enhance the playing experience, utilizing the natural terrain to create both difficulty and aesthetic appeal.
Jones’ design philosophy is evident throughout The Heather, where he aimed to make the course enjoyable yet challenging. The signature par-3 holes provide stunning views, while the par-5 holes encourage risk-taking strategies. The course has earned accolades for its meticulous maintenance and vibrant scenery, offering a tranquil yet demanding environment for players.
In addition to the golfing experience, The Heather Golf Course provides well-appointed facilities, including a clubhouse and practice areas, enhancing the overall visit. Its combination of challenging play, serene surroundings, and thoughtful design makes The Heather a standout destination for golf enthusiasts.
The Heather Golf Course
Robert Trent Jones, Sr. designed the Heather golf course at Boyne Highlands in 1966. The Heather was the first course at Boyne Highlands and is considered one of the best championship courses in the country.
The Heather is an older style course with narrow tree-lined fairways, smaller greens, and lots of bunkers. It has a variety of holes, including a few short par 4s to start the round. The course also has a classic finishing hole on the 18th that carries over the lake.
The Heather has hosted many major golf tournaments, including the Michigan Amateurs, the Michigan State Pro-Am, the AJGA Championships, and The Celebrity Tour. In 2018, the Michigan Golf Course Association named it the Michigan Course of the Year, and in 2019, the National Golf Course Owners Association named it the National Course of the Year.
