Just 30 miles north of Grand Rapids in Pierson is one of the
finest golf courses in the state, Pilgrim’s Run Golf Club.
Since being built in 1997-98 by Kris Schumacker and Mike
DeVries, Pilgrim’s Run has been a fixture among the rankings of the best public
golf courses in Michigan. Covering more than 400 acres, the course offers bent
grass fairways and distinctive green complexes with views that are unmatched.
The clubhouse opened in 1999 and features cedar shake siding
combined with cut stone, brick paths, and a starter’s building more than 150
years old. It has a spacious and elegant feel and is a perfect place to relax
after your round.
Pilgrim’s Run offers six different yardages to play from
ranging from 4,863 yards all the way to 7,093 yards, which makes it suitable
for golfers of all skill levels. The individual tee lengths are:
·
Gold: 7,093
·
Blue: 6,471
·
Bl/Wh: 6,205
·
White: 5,737
·
Wh/Red: 5,280
·
Red: 4,863
One thing that sets Pilgrim’s Run apart is the design and
layout of the course. With only three par-3 holes the course plays to a par of 73.
Also, with no residential properties
along the course, golfers get a true sense of seclusion and peaceful
tranquility when playing.
Greens fees for Pilgrim’s Run range from around $28 to $65,
making the course ideal for those who want an up-scale feel without the
up-scale price.
One special feature is that after paying for greens fees
golfers find a complimentary bucket of range balls awaiting in your cart. With
a range featuring both mat and grass tee areas and multiple target greens, it
is the ideal spot to prepare for a great round and is perfectly located right
before the first hole.
Possibly the most notable hole on the course is the par 4 No.
18 hole that is appropriately named “entice.” The hole is a dogleg right that
wraps around a lake, and tempts players to try to carry the water and hit the
green. It is a true test of risk versus reward. For those who prefer to play it
safe though, there is plenty of space on the left to lay up and avoid the lake
completely. This is only one of the many unique and challenging holes on the
course.
Pilgrim’s Run offers Summer Golf packages and Golf and Hotel
packages for those who either live in the area and want to play the course
frequently, or for those who live out of town and are looking for the perfect
golf getaway.
In the end, everyone who plays a round at Pilgrim’s Run can
agree that it is a west Michigan gem with plenty to offer golfers of all ages
and skill levels.
To book your tee time at this fine West Michigan golf course,
go to pilgrimsrun.com today.
-Sal LaFata, member services associate
