Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is renowned for many things, but we specialize in creating an incredible golf experience. For each of our three signature Michigan golf courses, we sought out the finest designers the industry has to offer. The Bear by was designed by Jack Nicklaus. The Wolverine by Gary Player. Spruce Run by William Newcomb. Over the years, Golf Magazine has awarded us their coveted Silver Medal, and Golf Digest has rated our courses among their best. We're also proud to be certified as an Environmental Steward by the Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program.

Welcome to The Bear, every bit the animal it was when Jack Nicklaus first unleashed the course on June 17, 1985. Celebrated as one of the toughest 18 holes in Michigan, The Bear was ranked as the 18th toughest course in America, according to Golf Digest. This beautiful course offers the best of Traverse City golf and regularly stands out as a top golf course in Michigan.

Nicklaus’ signature design features Scottish terraced fairways, tiered greens, deep grassy roughs, moguls and mounds, and deep pot bunkers. With rolling land, trees, lakes, streams, fruit orchards, and a variety of wildlife, The Bear features a mixture of different elements golfers rarely see on one course. This is northern Michigan golf at its finest.

PROUD TO BEAR THE NAME

The Bear’s name is a tribute to its designer, Jack Nicklaus, whose trademark blonde hair earned him the nickname “the Golden Bear.” Born in 1940, Jack Nicklaus is a legend both as a player and a course designer. His competitive career spanned five decades, including 18 professional major championship titles. He is the only player in history to have won each of the game’s majors at least three times, and is the only player to have completed the career “Grand Slam” on both the regular and senior tours.