Stonehedge South Course - Gull Lake View Golf Resort (Augusta, MI)

Stonehedge South was designed by Gull Lake View owner Charles Scott in 1988. It was the third course added to the resort. 
(Gull Lake View keeps every one of their courses in pristine condition. This pic shows the lush and green look that represents the resort.)

Charles Scott had a nice piece of property to work with at Stonehedge. It’s rolling and wooded with some nice elevation change. He kept the design simple, and moved the fairways between the trees with usually one bunker protecting the green. It’s a great formula for an owner who wants to present a beautiful course yet get players around quickly. 

(The 192/169 yard par three third is a great example of Charles Scott’s architectural philosophy. Today’s pin requires a high cut, but plenty of room to bounce it on and take your chances two putting.) 

The course is very playable, and judging by the many cars in the parking lot, is probably one of the most popular courses at the resort. It’s treelined on every hole, and rewards accuracy off the tee. The greens have an opening, and the superintendent can dictate the challenge accordingly. Players can feel good about their games if they manage it wisely. 

 (The uphill 186/170 yard par three seventh is semi blind with moguls short and a stone wall left of the green.)

My concern with the South Course was the holes with the elevation change had too much slope in the fairways to hold the tee shots. In fact, other holes had the same issue at different junctures. I chalk this up to inexperience. Granted, my one play possibly put me in bad positions that would be fixed with multiple plays, and I would avoided these spots or play different shots. 

(The 396/372 yard par four eleventh is a solid hole that drops off the tee and tumbled up to an elevated green. The back nine occupies rollicking terrain.) 

Gull Lake View has a strong group of golf courses, and being within a decent driving distance of Chicago, Detroit, and even Cleveland, can pull day or short getaways. The resort does a great job with their golf packages, and is thriving in today’s market. The South is really a reflection of those sound Midwest values. I give it a 5 (good)(worth driving an hour to play).

(The 435/404 yard par four eighteenth was my favorite hole on the course. I love how the shallow valley guards the front of the green yet allows a low ball to still onto the putting surface. The rear pin positions are the most difficult to access. It’s a really good ending hole.)

[we purchased a golf package during the week that gave us three rounds and two nights for $350. Any replay was $20 except for Stoatin Brae which was $55. It was a great bargain! Maybe next time we’ll check out the East and West courses. With Bedford Valley and Stoatin Brae in their resume, Gull Lake View has positioned themselves to be successful for a long time.]