The Highlands at Harbor Springs
Michigan, USA
The Highlands at Harbor Springs overview
Located on the west side of Northern Michigan, The Highlands at Harbor Springs is a premier year-round destination offering an exceptional blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation. During the winter months, the resort transforms into a skier’s paradise. However, as the snow melts, The Highlands transitions into a golfer’s dream from late spring to early fall.
With four championship golf courses designed to challenge players of all skill levels, as well as a par-3 executive course, the resort provides a world-class golfing experience amid the stunning natural beauty of Northern Michigan. With luxurious accommodations, top-tier dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere, The Highlands at Harbor Springs is the perfect destination for a golf getaway, a family vacation, or a relaxing escape surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Golf Courses
Staying at The Highlands gives you access to multiple courses at the property…
Arthur Hills: Designed by its namesake, the Arthur Hills course has some of the most spectacular holes in all of Northern Michigan. Cut through the forest with large expanses of sandy wasteland and some amazing views of the Michigan wilderness.
Donald Ross Memorial: The Donald Ross Memorial is a collection of holes from some of the course designer’s finest work including the likes of Pinehurst No.2, Oak Hill, and Seminole.
The Heather: Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., The Heather was The Highlands' first course and it has truly earned its reputation as one of the finest championship courses in the country.
The Moor: The Moor was the second course built at the resort and represents a very playable course. Marshland, water hazards, and several dogleg holes all play their part in what is often considered the member’s favorite.
Doon Brae Short Course: This 9-hole, par-3 course is open to all and is a great place for all levels of golfer to have some fun. Set along the hillside that doubles as a ski slope during the winter months, it makes for a great afternoon of entertainment.
For a day out, the Bay Harbor Golf Club, situated 25 minutes south on the edge of Little Traverse Bay is a must play.
Accommodation
The Main Lodge at The Highlands is styled to resemble a classic English country estate. It is the central hub of the resort and home to the popular heated outdoor pool and hot tub. There are a variety of bedroom options at The Lodge and all come with a Signature Boyne Bed(s), mini-fridge, and modern amenities. Condos, townhouses, and private rental homes are also available on request.
Restaurant & Bars
There is plenty of choice when it comes to eating and drinking in and around the resort. For a more elegant setting and some fine cuisine, there’s the Main Dining Room at the Main Lodge or the Dornoch Dining Room at the Country Club. If you’re looking for a more casual experience, Champions Pizza, 55th Tee, Seminole Pub or Slopeside Lounge will all hit the spot.
On Site Activities
Beyond golf, The Highlands offers a diverse array of outdoor activities, including mountain biking, horseback riding, ziplining, scenic chairlift rides, and hiking trails that showcase the region’s picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure or a peaceful retreat, the resort caters to every interest.
Location
The Highlands at Harbor Springs is located near Harbor Springs in Northern Michigan. The nearest airports to the resort are Harbor Springs Airport (MGN) – 4 miles, Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) – 14 miles, and Traverse City Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) – 75 miles.
If you prefer to drive, some example distances are 110 miles from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, 185 miles from Grand Rapids, Michigan, 275 miles from Detroit, Michigan and 360 miles from Chicago, Illinois.
When to Visit
The golf courses start to open in late April / early May and from mid-May through to mid-September you can find some great golfing conditions. June through August is ideal with average highs just above 80° F and the mountain setting means very low humidity.
Golf courses at The Highlands at Harbor Springs
Arthur Hills Course
Designed by its namesake, the Arthur Hills course has some of the most spectacular holes in all Northern Michigan. Cut through the forest with large expanses of sandy wasteland and some amazing views of the Michigan wilderness, it’s one of BOYNE Golf’s finest.
Donald Ross Memorial Course
The Donald Ross Memorial is a collection of some of the course designer’s finest work including the likes of Pinehurst No. 2, Oak Hill and Seminole. In a single round, you will experience holes that have played their part in three Ryder Cups, eight U.S. Amateurs, 11 PGA Championships, and 14 U.S. Opens.
The Heather
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., The Heather was BOYNE’s first course and it has truly earned its reputation as one of the finest championship courses in the country. Rolling tree-lined fairways, sculpted bunkering, blueberry bogs and penalizing wetlands are the marks of this layout.
The Moor
The Moor was the second course built at The Highlands and represents a very playable resort course. Marshland, water hazards and several dogleg holes all play their part on what is often considered the member’s favorite.
Bay Harbor Golf course
Bay Harbor Golf Club, located along Lake Michigan’s stunning Little Traverse Bay, is one of the Midwest’s most picturesque golf facilities. The club is home to 27 championship holes designed by Arthur Hills - The Links, The Quarry, and The Preserve, each unique from the other and can be paired to create three 18-hole experiences. With breathtaking lake views, dramatic elevation changes, and world-class facilities, Bay Harbor is an unforgettable golf experience for players of all skill levels.
