The Loop at Forest Dunes

About The Loop at Forest Dunes

Tom Doak pulled off something truly special here – a reversible 18-hole course that plays as two completely different golf experiences depending on which direction you tackle it. The clockwise routing feels more strategic and nuanced, while the counterclockwise version presents bolder, more dramatic shots with several risk-reward opportunities that'll have you second-guessing your club selection. What makes this concept work isn't just the novelty; Doak's minimalist design philosophy shines through with greens that flow naturally into the surrounding terrain and strategic bunkering that punishes poor decisions without feeling punitive. The setting in northern Michigan's sandy soil gives Doak the perfect canvas for his ground-game approach, and the course drains beautifully even in wet conditions. At roughly $100 for a walking round, you're getting exceptional value for architecture this thoughtful – most Doak courses run significantly higher. The real genius is how different holes reveal themselves depending on your direction of play; what serves as a relatively straightforward approach shot going one way becomes a demanding drive going the other. It's the kind of course design that rewards multiple visits, and the walking-only policy keeps the pace brisk and the experience pure.

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