The pros keep hitting it farther, but traveling golfers have figured out something better: the short course. More resorts are building them every year, and these are not your grandpa's pitch and putt. Some of them have better views and more character than the big course next door.
A short course lets you squeeze in more holes on days when 36 isn't happening, whether it's a walking-only property, tired legs or the sun going down. Use it to settle the bets from the morning round, or play a loose loop with friends or family and a drink in hand.
Here are the must-play short courses along the Michigan Golf Trail.
Black Lake Golf Club is a 18 hole short course in Onaway, MI.
Doon Brae | BOYNE Golf is a 9 hole short course in Harbor Springs, MI.
Manistee National - Short Course is a 9 hole short course in Manistee, MI.
Manistee National Golf & Resort - The Retreat is a 45 hole short course in Manistee, MI.
The Highlands | BOYNE Golf is a 72 hole short course in Harbor Springs, MI.
Treetops Resort - Smith Threetops is a 9 hole short course in Gaylord, MI.
Arcadia Bluffs - The Dozen is a 12 hole short course in Arcadia, MI.
The Cardinal at St Johns Resort is a 18 hole short course in Plymouth, MI.