The Pines Golf Course

Many believe that fall in Michigan is one of the most beautiful places one is ever likely to see ... that is, until you rip a 300-yard drive down the fairway and can’t find your ball because all that "beauty" has fallen to the ground. So, how do you enjoy serene autumn beauty and a round void of leaf-eating golf balls in the fall? You visit today’s featured destination, The Pines Golf Course, located in Lake Isabella near Mt. Pleasant.

The Pines Golf Course really brings it all together. Designed by the legendary Bruce Matthews, this aptly named golf course is nestled amongst tall pines between the Chippewa River and 875-acre Lake Isabella. The Pines plays a respectable 6,856 yards from the tips to a 72.9/132 rating.

The excellent playing conditions, a result of Superintendent Rick Hakken’s dedication to superb maintenance and a Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program certification, has made The Pines Golf Course a staple for Publinx matches over the last 15 years. The course also plays host to qualifying rounds for the Michigan Amateur tournament. This is a championship-level "good walk spoiled" that will be a joyful addition to your GPS next summer.

The staff, headed by PGA Professional Joe Schumer is friendly and always willing to pass along a few pearls of wisdom before your round, such as "Pay close attention to the wind shifting between tee box and the green on the No. 15, the 522-yard par-5." If simple tips from the Pro won't do you any good, stop in and talk to him about some one-on-one quality instruction.

The Pines Golf Course's practice facilities include areas to dial in your wedge, work on your chips, bury three- to ten-footers and straighten out that duck-hook you picked up this year. (Where did that come from anyway?) If you’re pondering the answer to that last question, be sure to do it while enjoying a "Bobby Jones" Black Angus Burger from The Pines Grille, or choose from a host of signature savory pleasures, like "The Birdie," a sandwich made of a slab of marinated chicken breast and garlic mayonnaise, or an old-fashioned Slow-Roasted Pulled Pork.

Situated just ten short miles from Mt. Pleasant — and that little casino they have over there — The Pines Golf Course make for a great weekend away, or at the very least a most pleasurable pit stop on your way Up North for hunting or fishing this fall. Either way, make it happen — you’ll be happy you did.