Black Forest at Wilderness Valley
6500 Nicklaus Drive, Gaylord, Michigan, 49735
Black Forest at Wilderness Valley Scorecard
| Front 9 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | OUT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Par | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 36 |
| Blue | 519 | 440 | 344 | 390 | 230 | 360 | 550 | 145 | 345 | 3,323 |
| White | 472 | 415 | 320 | 368 | 215 | 335 | 471 | 133 | 312 | 3,041 |
| Handicap | 9 | 13 | 5 | 7 | 15 | 11 | 1 | 17 | 3 | — |
| Back 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | IN | TOT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Par | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 37 | 73 |
| Blue | 532 | 395 | 189 | 354 | 385 | 139 | 471 | 410 | 490 | 3,365 | 6,688 |
| White | 460 | 384 | 156 | 320 | 340 | 120 | 450 | 371 | 455 | 3,056 | 6,097 |
| Handicap | 2 | 6 | 16 | 14 | 10 | 18 | 12 | 4 | 8 | — | — |
Tees, Slope & Course Rating
| Tee | Slope | Course Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Blue | 133 | 72 |
| White | 126 | 70 |
Black Forest at Wilderness Valley by the Numbers
Black Forest at Wilderness Valley plays to a par of 73 and measures 6,688 yards from the blue tees (6,097 yards from the white tees). The layout features 4 par-3s, 9 par-4s and 5 par-5s. The number-one handicap hole is the par-5 7th — statistically the toughest hole on the course, while the 15th rates as the most forgiving. The longest test is the 7th, stretching 550 yards from the tips, and the shortest is the 15th at 139 yards.
About Black Forest at Wilderness Valley
Black Forest at Wilderness Valley is an 18-hole course that presents a solid challenge for golfers of all levels. With a par of 73 and yardage ranging from 6,097 to 6,688 depending on your tee choice, you can select from Blue or White tees, perfect for tailoring the experience to your game. The bent grass greens are in excellent condition, providing a smooth putting surface that rewards precision. Golfers should be prepared for a course that demands strategic shot-making with various elevation changes and thoughtfully placed hazards throughout.
What to Expect
When playing Black Forest, you'll want to keep your wits about you, especially on the back nine, where the terrain gets a bit more rugged. It suits all skill levels, but golfers with a handicap between 10 and 20 will find it particularly enjoyable, as you'll need to think critically about your club selection and shot placement. Watch out for the natural water hazards that can sneak up on you, especially on the par 3s. And with the course's finely maintained bent grass greens, you'll need to account for the speed when putting.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the Black Forest course is often praised for its environmentally friendly practices? The course has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, an increasingly important focus in golf today.
About Gaylord
Gaylord, Michigan, is a charming town known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant outdoor culture. Often referred to as the 'Golf Mecca of Michigan,' it offers a cozy, small-town feel with friendly locals, perfect for relaxing after a day on the greens. You'll find plenty of activities year-round, from fishing and hiking to exploring the nearby Pigeon River Country State Forest.
Nearby Attractions
After your round at Black Forest, consider grabbing a bite at the Bone Island Grill, known for its delicious local fare and laid-back atmosphere. If you're in the mood for a nightcap, head over to the Gaylord Brewing Company, a local favorite with a variety of craft brews. For accommodations, the Treetops Resort is just a stone's throw away, offering comfortable lodging and even more golf options to explore.