Crooked Tree Golf Club
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Crooked Tree Golf Club

4.5
·296 reviews·Petoskey, United States

Experience a dramatic, challenging golf course with stunning Lake Michigan views in Northern Michigan.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Ideal weather & fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Crooked Tree Golf Club

Crooked Tree Golf Club

Best Time

Summer mornings

Ideal weather & fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience a dramatic, challenging golf course with stunning Lake Michigan views in Northern Michigan.

4.5
(296 reviews)

"This is a can’t miss course if you’re up in the Petoskey area."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tee Times Early

Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season. Consider Boyne Golf packages for value.

💧 Bring Extra Water

Water on the course can be pricey. Bring your own, especially on hot days.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dramatic Elevation Changes

Dramatic Elevation Changes

Throughout the course

Experience thrilling tee shots and approach shots with significant ups and downs, offering unique challenges and scenic vistas.

Stunning Lake Michigan Views

Stunning Lake Michigan Views

Select holes

Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of Lake Michigan, adding a picturesque backdrop to your golfing adventure.

Challenging Greens and Fairways

Challenging Greens and Fairways

Greens and Fairways

Navigate narrow fairways and small, demanding greens that test your precision and strategic thinking.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tee Time in Advance

Crooked Tree Golf Club is a popular spot, especially during peak season. Booking your tee time well in advance is crucial to secure your preferred slot and avoid disappointment. Consider package deals if you plan on playing multiple Boyne Golf courses.

Prepare for a Challenging, Scenic Round

This course offers dramatic elevation changes and stunning views of Lake Michigan. Be ready for positional play and strategically placed hazards. The GPS on carts is a helpful guide for navigating the tricky layout.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Ideal weather & fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Crooked Tree Golf Club Petoskey, MI Harry Bowers (1991) Not typically one of #BoyneGolf’s better-known layouts, #CrookedTree is an adventurous, dramatic track in the hills above #LakeMichigan featuring stunning views and impeccable conditions. With tiny greens, narrow fairways and a demanding set of hazards from start to finish, this was one of the toughest tests on our #Boyne trip last sum...
bmurphgolf
116 likes • 4.9K views

🎯 Book Tee Times Early

Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season. Consider Boyne Golf packages for value. Reddit

💧 Bring Extra Water

Water on the course can be pricey. Bring your own, especially on hot days. Reddit

Did you know that BOYNE Golf has 162 holes? There's no better trip than visiting our Magnificent 10 golf courses and playing as much golf as you want between Boyne Mountain, Bay Harbor Golf Club, Crooked Tree Golf Club, and The Highlands. Thank you to LINKS Magazine for including us in this article on U.S. Golf Resorts with 100-plus holes. Read the full article at the link in our bio and gift ...
boyne.golf
49 likes • 1.5K views
Played an amazing at Crooked Tree Golf Club, in Northern Michigan! Crazy views! Play Hole 12 with me. #TerryWoods734 #golf #golfaddict #pgatour #pga #golfswing #golfer #michigangolf #golfing #golflife #golftips #explore #golfsavedmylife #northernmichigan #crookedtreegolfcourse #petoskey #boynegolf
terrywoods734
37 likes • 1.2K views

📱 Utilize Cart GPS

The GPS system is a helpful caddie, guiding you through the course's challenges. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera for the stunning Lake Michigan vistas and dramatic holes. TikTok

Did you know that BOYNE Golf @boyne.golf has 162 holes? There’s no better trip than visiting their Magnificent 10 golf courses and playing as much golf as you want between Boyne Mountain, Bay Harbor Golf Club, Crooked Tree Golf Club, and The Highlands. Gift someone the gift of golf this holiday season! Link in bio at @boyne.golf ⛳️ @boyne.golf is Featured in Elevated Magazines ⛳️ ElevatedMagaz...
elevatedmagazines
0 likes • 181 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tee Times Early

Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season. Consider Boyne Golf packages for value. Reddit

💧 Bring Extra Water

Water on the course can be pricey. Bring your own, especially on hot days. Reddit

📱 Utilize Cart GPS

The GPS system is a helpful caddie, guiding you through the course's challenges. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera for the stunning Lake Michigan vistas and dramatic holes. TikTok

👟 Play Your Best Round

Positional play is key. Choose the right tee box for your skill level. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(296 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Crooked Tree Golf Club is praised for its dramatic, challenging layout and stunning Lake Michigan views, offering an adventurous golfing experience. While the course conditions are generally excellent, some find it unnecessarily tricky, and the cost of on-course amenities like water can be high. The GPS system is a helpful feature for navigating the course's complexities.

"Played 9 after a meeting. The course has many tee options with ratings for men and women at each option. Positional play is forced on many holes and the GPS on the carts is a great "caddie". Well maintained and appreciate range included in the green fee."

Bernard Brown

"Course was fun and had plenty of challenges mixed in. Plenty of tee options for all skill levels."

Justin Sloan

"Crooked Tree is a decent layout. I'm not sure what the day rate is as it was part of our package.

The range was in poor shape at 1pm on a Sunday. The course was in good shape. It's unnecessarily tricky with a 90 degree dog leg to start your round. Not exactly the best way to encourage a brisk pace of play with trouble right, left, and long.

My smallest complaint is with the lack of drinking water on the course. Bottled water is available for the low, low price of $5 for 20oz bottle. This was on a 95 degree day.

My biggest complaint is with the cart GPS system. For the second year in a row, merely pulling to the side off the cart path on 15 set of an obnoxious, consistent beeping sound for about a minute. Mind you, I hadn't been in the tall grass, or parked in a bunker, just two wheels off the path to let another cart past. See the little video.

Pretty views of the lake on a couple holes if that strikes your fancy."

Marc Reaume

What People Like

Stunning Lake Michigan views
Challenging and dramatic layout
Impeccable course conditions

What People Dislike

Expensive on-course water
Unnecessarily tricky holes
Cart GPS beeping issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Crooked Tree Golf Club is located in Petoskey, Michigan, and is part of the Boyne Golf collection. It's situated in the hills above Lake Michigan, offering a somewhat secluded but scenic drive. Many visitors arrive as part of a larger Boyne Golf package, which often includes transportation between their various courses. If driving independently, use GPS navigation to find the specific address.

Public transport options directly to Crooked Tree Golf Club are limited. It's best to plan for private transportation, such as a car rental or taxi service, especially if you are not staying at one of the Boyne resorts. TikTok

From Traverse City, it's about an hour's drive north. From Mackinaw City, it's approximately 45 minutes south. The drive itself is scenic, particularly as you approach the Lake Michigan coastline. TikTok

Yes, ample parking is available for golfers at the clubhouse. You'll find it convenient for unloading your clubs and heading to the pro shop or first tee. TikTok

Absolutely! Crooked Tree is one of Boyne Golf's 'Magnificent 10' courses. Many visitors create multi-day golf trips to play Crooked Tree, Bay Harbor Golf Club, The Highlands, and Boyne Mountain. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Green fees for Crooked Tree Golf Club vary depending on the season, day of the week, and time of day. It's recommended to check the official Boyne Golf website for the most current rates and to book tee times. Package deals are often available. Reddit

Yes, booking tee times online through the Boyne Golf website is the most convenient way to secure your preferred slot. You can also call the pro shop directly. Reddit

Boyne Golf frequently offers various promotions, including twilight rates, package deals, and seasonal discounts. Keep an eye on their website or sign up for their newsletter to stay informed about current offers. Instagram

Typically, the green fee includes access to the course and the driving range. Cart rental is usually separate, but the carts come equipped with GPS systems. Reddit

The course typically opens in the morning and closes around dusk. The pro shop and clubhouse hours may vary seasonally. It's best to check the Boyne Golf website for specific operating hours during your planned visit. TikTok

🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience

Crooked Tree is known for its challenging and dramatic layout, featuring significant elevation changes, narrow fairways, and small, undulating greens. Positional play is often required, and the course offers multiple tee boxes to accommodate various skill levels. TikTokReddit

While challenging, Crooked Tree offers multiple tee options, making it playable for beginners. However, the course's demanding nature and strategic hazards might be more enjoyable for golfers with some experience. Reddit

You can expect stunning views of Lake Michigan from several holes, particularly on the back nine. The dramatic elevation changes also provide unique scenic perspectives throughout the round. TikTokReddit

Yes, Crooked Tree Golf Club typically offers a driving range for practice. Some reviews mention the range condition can vary, but it's generally available for warm-ups. Reddit

Pace of play can vary. Some reviews mention the course can be unnecessarily tricky, potentially slowing down play. Booking tee times strategically and being ready to play can help maintain a good pace. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is typically a clubhouse with dining facilities offering food and beverages. You can enjoy a meal or a drink before or after your round. Reddit

The clubhouse usually offers a menu with classic golf course fare, including sandwiches, salads, and appetizers. Specific offerings can change seasonally. Reddit

While beverage carts are sometimes present, one review noted a lack of readily available drinking water on the course, with bottled water being quite expensive. It's advisable to be prepared. Reddit

Typically, you can order food and drinks to go from the clubhouse. This is convenient if you're in a hurry or prefer to eat elsewhere. Reddit

Since Crooked Tree is a bit more secluded, dining options are more concentrated in the nearby town of Petoskey. Petoskey offers a variety of restaurants, from casual pubs to more upscale dining. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The holes with panoramic views of Lake Michigan are prime photo opportunities. Also, the dramatic elevation changes and unique hole designs offer visually striking backdrops. TikTok

Yes, with the GPS on the carts and the layout, you can often pause briefly to capture scenic shots. Be mindful of pace of play and other golfers. TikTok

A smartphone with a good camera is usually sufficient for capturing the stunning landscapes. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you can get even more professional-looking shots, especially with wide-angle lenses for the vistas. TikTok

Hole 12 is often highlighted for its views and dramatic play. Many holes on the back nine offer excellent opportunities to capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape and Lake Michigan. TikTok

Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check with the golf club management or the Boyne Golf organization directly regarding their regulations on drone photography before your visit. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Crooked Tree Golf Club is primarily a challenging golf course, families can still enjoy the experience, especially if some members are golfers. The stunning views offer a pleasant backdrop for non-golfers accompanying the group. Consider booking a package deal that might include other Boyne activities or accommodations that cater to families. TikTok

For families where golf is a shared interest, the multiple tee boxes make it adaptable for different skill levels. However, the course's difficulty and pace might be less ideal for very young children or those new to the game. The clubhouse offers dining options, providing a place to relax after a round. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Crooked Tree Golf Club can be a premium experience, and rates reflect that. To make it more budget-friendly, look for off-season rates or twilight tee times, which are often discounted. Reddit Booking as part of a Boyne Golf package can also offer significant savings compared to booking individual rounds. Instagram+1

Be mindful of extra costs like bottled water, which can be expensive on the course. Reddit Bringing your own snacks and drinks can help manage your budget. If you're looking for a more economical golf experience in the Petoskey area, you might explore other local courses, but Crooked Tree offers a unique, high-quality challenge that many find worth the investment. Reddit

couples

Crooked Tree Golf Club offers a romantic setting with its stunning Lake Michigan views and dramatic landscape. It's an ideal destination for couples who enjoy playing golf together or for one partner to enjoy a round while the other takes in the scenery. TikTokReddit

Consider booking a Boyne Golf package that includes accommodation at one of their resorts, allowing for a relaxing getaway. After a round, enjoy a meal at the clubhouse or explore the charming nearby town of Petoskey for a romantic dinner. The picturesque environment makes for memorable photos and a special shared experience. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Challenging Layout

Crooked Tree Golf Club is renowned for its adventurous and dramatic layout, designed by Harry Bowers in 1991. It's not your typical flat course; expect significant elevation changes that demand strategic shot-making. Many holes feature narrow fairways and small, undulating greens, requiring precision from tee to green. The positional play is often forced, meaning you need to think carefully about where to place your ball to set up your next shot. TikTokReddit

The GPS system on the carts is a valuable tool here, acting as a virtual caddie to help you understand the hole's contours, hazards, and optimal landing areas. This is particularly useful on holes with tricky doglegs or blind shots. While challenging, the course offers multiple tee options, allowing golfers of all skill levels to find a suitable yardage. Reddit

Be prepared for a demanding round that tests your game management skills. The dramatic nature of the course, combined with its impeccable conditions, makes for a memorable golfing experience. TikTok

The Scenic Beauty of Northern Michigan

One of the standout features of Crooked Tree Golf Club is its breathtaking natural setting. Perched in the hills above Lake Michigan, the course offers stunning views that elevate the golfing experience beyond just the game itself. TikTokReddit

Several holes, particularly on the back nine, provide panoramic vistas of the vast, shimmering expanse of Lake Michigan. These scenic overlooks are perfect for a moment of pause and appreciation, offering a picturesque backdrop that is quintessentially Northern Michigan. The dramatic elevation changes also contribute to the visual appeal, offering unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape. TikTok

Beyond the lake views, the course is integrated into the natural terrain, with mature trees and rolling hills creating a beautiful and challenging environment. It's a course where the scenery is as much a part of the experience as the golf itself, making it a must-play for those who appreciate natural beauty. TikTok

Boyne Golf: A Multi-Course Experience

Crooked Tree Golf Club is part of the larger Boyne Golf collection, which boasts 10 magnificent courses across three Michigan locations: Boyne Mountain, Bay Harbor Golf Club, and The Highlands. This affiliation means visitors can experience a wide variety of golfing challenges and styles within a single trip. Instagram+1

Boyne Golf is known for offering extensive golf packages that allow enthusiasts to play multiple courses, often with bundled accommodations and dining. This makes it an ideal destination for golf trips and tournaments. Crooked Tree, with its unique character, is a key component of this diverse offering, providing a distinct experience compared to its sister courses. Instagram

When planning a visit, consider exploring the Boyne Golf website to see how Crooked Tree fits into their broader portfolio. Many golfers rave about the ability to play a different, high-quality course each day, making a Boyne Golf vacation a comprehensive and satisfying experience for any avid golfer. Instagram+1

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