Treetops Resort and the Famed Threetops

By Randy Prichard

Michigan’s quintessential golf resort is Treetops in beautiful Gaylord, home of the incomparable Threetops Par 3 course – site of the nationally televised ING Par 3 Shootout.

Owner and celebrated instructor Rick Smith has masterfully positioned Treetops as a top international golf destination on the premise that a memorable golf experience is all encompassing:

• World-class golf courses (Robert Trent Jones, Tom Fazio, Smith’s Signature, Tradition and Threetops Courses)
• Luxurious lodging, spa and dining accommodations
• Internationally acclaimed teaching academy
• Heavenly setting

The Treetops Resort experience begins with a go at America’s No. 1 par 3 course, Threetops. Experience the thrill and challenge the likes of two-time Masters Champion Phil Mickelson, Masters Champion Fred Couples, and PGA Legends Arnold Palmer and Lee Trevino have felt: exhilaration as they stare down pins on postage stamp greens that sit 90 to 170 feet below the tee, or take aim at pins with wedges and short irons positioned on elevated greens.

The challenge of Threetops makes for great fun and entertainment as a spectator, too. Two-day passes are just $50. Get more information about the 2006 ING Par 3 Shootout online at www.treetops.com.

All of Treetops’ courses are rated among the best Michigan resorts have to offer. The Smith Signature course, along with the Masterpiece and Premier courses, ranked in the Top 25 of Michigan Golf’s Top Public Courses.

The RTJ Masterpiece course has aged beautifully since it first opened in 1987. Four sets of tees let you enjoy anywhere from 4,900 to 7,000 yards in length.

The Premier course is the only Fazio design in Michigan. This 18-hole championship layout is well suited to all levels of play, affording 30-mile vistas of Northern Michigan.

Smith’s Signature course is testament to his love and understanding of the game. Manageable from the tips at 6,800 yards, this course tests your putting skill perhaps more than any other element of your game.

The Tradition has fast become a favorite at Treetops. The greens are superb; The 6,400-yard length is well suited to 98 percent of all golfers and the setting is pure Treetops.

If you’re interest is to experience the ultimate in Michigan resort golf, may as well play the best: Treetops – 81 holes of championship golf like no where else in the world.

See features, reviews and essays of Treetops elsewhere on the Michigan Golf website or simply go to www.treetops.com.