The Classic
Regularly ranked as one of Minnesota’s top public golf courses, the Classic course at Madden’s on Gull Lake is settled within the north woods surrounding Brainerd. The course is a good one for families and beginners—with five sets of tees at each hole for golfers of varying skill levels. • 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Rd., Brainerd, 800-642-5363, maddens.com
Deacon’s Lodge
Designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer (and named after his father), this course at Breezy Point Resort stretches across 500 acres. Surrounded by lakes, woods, and wetlands, the course has received national accolades for its layout. • 9252 Breezy Point Dr., Breezy Point, 800-432-3777, breezypointresort.com
The Legend
Situated in the middle of the Superior National Forest, the views at the Legend golf course are reason enough to play there. One of two courses at Giants Ridge Golf and Ski Resort in Biwabik, the Legend takes players through north woods terrain and challenges them with white sand bunkers, lakes, and tall trees. • 6325 Wynne Creek Dr., Biwabik, 866-409-6650, giantsridge.com
The Quarry
Built on the site of a former sand-and-gravel mining operation, the Quarry features holes named after local mines, giving a nod to Biwabik’s industrial past. Raised tees, deep hazards, and wetlands make this course at the Giants Ridge Resort a better one for more experienced golfers. • 6325 Wynne Creek Dr., Biwabik, 866-409-6650, giantsridge.com
The Wilderness
Located on the shores of Lake Vermillion, the Wilderness golf course at Fortune Bay Resort Casino is a great spot for beginners and golf pros alike. The facilities also include several practice areas for golfers of all abilities and a driving range. • 1430 Bois Forte Rd., Tower, 218-753-8917, golfthewilderness.com
