Few properties can transport players across continents and eras, allowing them to take center stage in a highlight reel of Golden Age golf course architecture.
The Donald Ross Memorial Course at The Highlands at Harbor Springs, part of the BOYNE Golf portfolio, is one of those rare gems.
A tribute to the legendary architect Donald Ross, this course weaves together replicas of 18 of his most iconic hole designs.
Each layout has been masterfully recreated, offering golf enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the strategic excellence and aesthetic beauty that defines Ross’s architectural legacy.
For a Donald Ross fan like myself, it was pure bliss.
The Donald Ross Memorial Course stands as a testament to the art of golf course design.
The course’s concept – a “greatest hits” compilation of Ross’s finest work – sets it apart, even among the many exceptional courses at The Highlands and Boyne’s other Northern Michigan properties.
From the dunes of Seminole to the storied fairways of Pinehurst and Oakland Hills, the course offers a diverse yet cohesive playing experience that is unlike any I’d seen.
It came as no surprise to me that The Donald Ross Memorial Course ranked as my second favorite during our WiscoGolfAddict BOYNE Golf trip, surpassed only by the spectacular Links/Quarry at Bay Harbor Golf Club.
Originally debuted in 1989 under the architectural purview of Bill Newcomb, the Donald Ross Memorial Course underwent significant renovations starting in 2020 with guidance from Michigan-based designer Ray Hearn.
Hearn also designed the Doon Brae par three course set to open in early 2025 and has had a hand in renovation projects across several of BOYNE Golf’s properties.
For more on Doon Brae, check out my Destination Overview for Boyne Golf:
BOYNE Golf: The Midwest’s Most Underrated Golf Destination
From the resorts to the dining, lodging and above all the golf, BOYNE Golf is a big-time golf trip that is not talked about nearly enough!
Leveraging modern technology and meticulous research, Hearn’s updates have helped enhance the authenticity of each replica hole, refining its tribute to Ross’s intentions.
Whether it’s the exposed sandscapes of Seminole, the turtleback greens of Pinehurst or the deceptive bunkering of Wannamoisett, every detail of The Donald Ross Memorial Course has been thoughtfully executed to evoke the spirit of the original architect’s design brilliance.
I loved it.
The Flow of Genius: Ross’s Seamless Design Across Landscapes
One of my favorite elements of the Donald Ross Memorial Course is the way its holes, many of which are situated hundreds, even thousands of miles from one another in real life, flow.
Similar to Arthur Hills’ flexibility across multiple settings within the BOYNE Golf portfolio (discussed in my recent review of the Links/Quarry Course at Bay Harbor Golf Club), the “Michelangelo of Golf” worked across many natural environments.
Some of his best works were created in the Sandhills of North Carolina as well as in the northeast, across the idyllic settings of Northern Michigan, Ohio and Minnesota and along the beaches of Florida.
Regardless of the geographic location of his projects, his goal was to design golf courses that blend seamlessly with their environment. His layouts are artful to the eye while offering challenge for players of all skill levels.
From his signature crowned greens to a judicious installment of sand traps and general use of the property’s best terrain as natural hazards, he believed in hazards being hazardous:
“There is no such thing as a misplaced bunker. Regardless of where a bunker may be, it is the business of the player to avoid it.”
-Donald Ross
and…
“Often the very highest recommendation of a bunker is when it is criticized… that shows it is accomplishing the one thing for which it was built: It’s making players think.”
-Donald Ross
… But while he believed in craftsmanship he favored a style that does not overly penalize the player. They already found the hazard so why build in fingers and stylistic features that make egress painfully difficult? This simple, strategic bunker style is found throughout The Donald Ross Memorial Course.
From his early days under the tutelage of Old Tom Morris at Royal Dornoch in Scotland to the playing fields of America, Ross designed around 400 total golf courses. The list is a veritable who’s-who of the great classic designs from around the United States.
His legendary public tracks include Pinehurst Numbers One through Three, Mid Pines, Pine Needles and Southern Pines in Moore County, North Carolina, and one of my other favorite new-to-me courses I visited this year, the Donald Ross Course at French Lick Resort in Indiana.
Ross’s work only touched two properties in Wisconsin (the Oconomowoc Golf Club and Kenosha Country Club). KCC is one of my top five favorite private clubs in the state as it nears completion of a thoughtful restoration project by Drew Rogers.
Ross designed many of the country’s most elite private clubs, including Seminole, Aronimink, Oak Hill, Wannamoisett, Scioto, Inverness, Plainfield, Oakland Hills, Charlotte, Bob O’Link, Salem, Detroit and others.
While the incredible hole designs he fit onto many of these private club properties can only be played by the luckiest and wealthiest, the Donald Ross Memorial Course brings them to the masses via BOYNE Golf’s beautiful recreations.
The Donald Ross Memorial Course Scorecard
A Hole-By-Hole Walk-Through of the Donald Ross Memorial Course: No Deep Cuts, Just the Hits
Hole 1: Seminole Golf Club #6 (Juno, FL)
Par 4 (Hcp. 11, 383/364/351)
The Donald Ross Memorial Course opens with a stunning recreation of Seminole’s sixth hole, setting the tone for the round with its clean lines, exposed sand borders and a raised green with runoffs on all sides.
Recent renovations have improved its authenticity, adding large waste areas and expanding the green by 40%. The result is a breathtaking hole that feels as if it’s been transplanted directly from Florida’s sandy Atlantic coastline.
The false front and vertical bunkering demand precision, making this one of the most memorable opening holes I’ve played.
BOYNE Golf’s attention to detail shines on the first, delivering a faithful representation that is both challenging and aesthetically stunning.
Hole 2: Plainfield CC #4 (Plainfield, NJ)
Par 4 (Hcp. 13, 336/326/317)
This drivable par four is as fun as it is challenging. Playing uphill with a slight dogleg left, the fairway funnels players toward one of the smallest greens I’ve ever encountered.
Deep bunkers and Alps-like mounding obscure the putting surface, demanding precise approach shots. The green itself slopes dramatically from back to front, adding another layer of complexity to an already intricate design.
During our visit, we played this hole twice (because the 10th was under construction, we replayed it following 15 to complete an 18-hole round), experimenting with different tee positions. The second time, from the forward tees, the hole was turned into a risk-reward gem with just enough room to tempt a drive while keeping the penalty for missing high.
Hole 3: Oakland Hills CC #17 (Birmingham, MI)
Par 3 (Hcp. 5, 196/185/174)
A demanding par three, the third hole on the Donald Ross Memorial Course challenges players with a semi-blind tee shot to an elevated green surrounded by sand.
The pronounced slopes and undulations make it one of the trickiest greens to navigate on-property.
At nearly 200 yards uphill, it requires both power and finesse. The back-left pin placement, in particular, adds to the difficulty with balls that miss often rolling off the steep sides.
This hole encapsulates the strategic depth and shot-making required in Ross’s designs, making it a standout among the par threes on the course.
Hole 4: Pinehurst No. 2 #14 (Pinehurst, NC)
Par 4 (Hcp. 9, 434/422/399)
The first of three Pinehurst replicas on the course, the fourth hole epitomizes Ross’s design philosophy.
The downhill approach is visually deceptive, with pre-green bunkering that makes the green appear closer than it is. The crowned putting surface demands an exacting approach, with any shot landing short or off-center rolling away into collection areas.
Playing this hole offered a true Pinehurst experience, complete with the subtle yet penal elements that make Ross’s designs legendary.
Hole 5: Oak Hill CC #13 (Rochester, NY)
Par 5 (Hcp. 1, 617/593/561)
This lengthy par five feels every bit its yardage, especially when played into the wind.
A creek bisects the fairway, and a stone bridge adds a touch of charm.
The tee shot requires accuracy to find the ample landing zone, while the second shot narrows considerably.
The green is relatively flat and bowl-shaped, providing some respite from the hole’s overall challenge. However, its uphill trajectory and strategic bunkering create a stern test, making it a hole where patience and course management are rewarded.
Hole 6: Scioto CC #2 (Columbus, OH)
Par 4 (Hcp. 7, 402/376/365)
Jack Nicklaus’s home course provides the inspiration for this downhill par four.
A turtleback fairway and strategically placed bunkers make precision off the tee essential.
The approach to the green is no less demanding, with bunkers flanking the putting surface and punishing any missteps. Playing down the left side of the fairway offers the best angle into the green, though the margins for error are slim.
Hole 7: Inverness Golf Club #18 (Toledo, OH)
Par 4 (Hcp. 17, 336/328/311)
This short par four offers a classic risk-reward challenge. At just over 300 yards, it tempts players to aim for the green, but numerous strategically placed bunkers and a small, sloping green make that a high-risk endeavor.
I loved this hole’s intricacy and the way it follows one of Ross’s key principles: high-reward shots should require precision, while the smart play should allow grace.
While finding the fairway is key to setting up a manageable approach, even then the green’s undulations (especially the sharp back-to-front contouring) demand great shot-making.
If I were to develop a top 10 hole designs I’ve played ranking, this would likely be on it.
Hole 8: Charlotte CC #11 (Charlotte, NC)
Par 3 (Hcp. 15, 181/181/167)
Set against a picturesque backdrop, this par three is both beautiful and challenging.
A wide pond guards the green, and the false front requires a well-struck tee shot to avoid rolling back into trouble.
With multiple teeing options, the hole can vary in difficulty, but its beauty remains constant. Golden hour lighting during our round made this one of the most photogenic holes of the trip.
Hole 9: Bob O’Link Golf Club #11 (Highland Park, IL)
Par 5 (Hcp. 3, 497/484/467)
To me, the beach-style bunker along the greens complex defines this par five.
Reaching the green in two is a possibility for long hitters, but the water hazard and strategically placed bunkers make it a risky proposition.
This hole beautifully encapsulates Ross’s knack for blending beauty with strategic complexity.
The front-right greenside bunker, paired with the pond’s edge, promotes restraint on approach shots, and help make it a visually and strategically unforgettable golf hole.
Hole 10: Royal Dornoch Golf Club #14 (Dornoch, Scotland)
Par 4 (Hcp. 4, 422/413/404)
This replica of a Royal Dornoch classic offers a chance to experience Ross’s roots in golf course design.
Playing softly downhill and framed by natural contours, the fairway sets up an approach shot that is as much about accuracy as it is about distance.
The green is elevated with run-offs all around, demanding a high, soft approach to hold its surface.
Unfortunately, during our visit the 10th was under reconstruction, but the original hole’s storied history and reputation make it one to anticipate on a return trip.
Hole 11: Salem Country Club #13 (Peabody, MA)
Par 4 (Hcp. 16, 339/330/309)
The 11th on the Donald Ross Memorial Course is a classic Ross short par four that’s full of strategy.
With the green sitting atop a knoll, players must navigate a tight, tree-lined fairway and an uphill approach. Deep bunkers flank the green, which is small, undulating, and fiercely protected.
I managed to hit a perfect drive to the fairway valley, leaving less than 70 yards in, but the approach required precision to avoid the dramatic slopes and bunkers that surround the putting surface. For such a short hole, it delivers a big challenge.
Hole 12: Detroit Golf Club (North) #3 (Detroit, MI)
Par 3 (Hcp. 18, 159/159/147)
This short par three is a Golden Age gem.
A large bunker guards the front of the elevated green on 12, which falls off sharply on all sides. The putting surface is ample but canted, making club selection and accuracy critical.
The simplicity of this hole belies its strategic depth, a hallmark of Ross’s design philosophy.
Hole 13: Seminole Golf Club #15 (Juno, FL)
Par 5 (Hcp. 2, 510/502/458)
The 13th is one of my favorite holes on the course, offering a thrilling risk-reward experience.
The split fairway challenges players to choose between a safer route to the left or a bold play down the narrower right side, demanding a carry over water.
I personally don’t see the value in hitting the right-side fairway – to me, it adds more trouble than it’s worth although it does provide a bailout for errant tee shots.
The greens complex on 13 is raised and flanked by bunkers, requiring a precise approach. It was absolutely stunning in the early-morning light, and did not fail to impress during our actual round later in the morning.
Trees removed in recent renovations have opened up new sightlines, enhancing the hole’s beauty and playability while staying true to Ross’s original vision.
Hole 14: Pinehurst No. 2 #2 (Pinehurst, NC)
Par 4 (Hcp. 8, 435/410/394)
The second of three Pinehurst replicas, the 14th is a long, demanding par four that embodies Ross’s design philosophy.
The fairway is relatively level but requires accuracy to set up a manageable approach. The green slopes dramatically from back to front, with a deep bunker protecting the front-right side.
Approaching from the left offers the best angle, but even then, holding this crowned green is no easy task.
Hole 15: Aronimink Golf Club #11 (Newton Square, PA)
Par 4 (Hcp. 10, 415/400/384)
One of the most visually striking holes on the course, the 15th features over 20 bunkers, making it a feast for the eyes and a test of strategy.
The fairway is generous but narrows considerably near the green, which is large, multi-tiered, and sloped from back to front.
Approach shots must navigate the illusion created by offset bunkers, which add a layer of complexity to this already challenging hole.
It’s hard to describe in words how beautiful this golf hole is. The bright white sand and layering of the sand features is absolutely gorgeous. I was stunned by the design of the first hole, and then – after getting near its green – saw this layout and was just as awed. It’s one of the key holes I cannot wait to see and play again some day.
Hole 16: Pinehurst No. 2 #10 (Pinehurst, NC)
Par 5 (Hcp. 14, 568/533/513)
The final Pinehurst replica on the Donald Ross Memorial Course, the 16th is a sweeping par five with a wide fairway and easy-to-find bunkering.
Playing downhill and right-to-left, it demands strategy and precision. The greens complex is expansive and undulating with subtle movements that challenge even the best putters.
Hearn’s recent renovations have enhanced the fairway’s flow and added a new back tee, improving the hole’s playability while keeping Ross’s intentions intact.
Hole 17: Wannamoisett Country Club #8 (Rumford, RI)
Par 3 (Hcp. 12, 184/184/167)
This classic Ross par three uses deception to challenge players.
Bunkers positioned 20 yards in front of the green create the illusion that the putting surface is closer than it is. The green itself is small and well-protected, rewarding accurate tee shots.
Taking enough club is critical to avoid the traps and find the putting surface on this gem of a hole.
Hole 18: Oakland Hills Country Club #16 (Birmingham, MI)
Par 4 (Hcp. 6, 438/407/375)
The closing hole on the Donald Ross Memorial Course is a fitting finale, combining beauty and challenge in equal measure.
A dogleg left, the 18th requires a well-placed tee shot to avoid the trees lining the left side. The approach must carry water to reach the green, which is guarded by bunkers on all sides.
During our round, my perfectly hit but poorly placed drive left me with no choice but to lay up, underscoring the importance of strategy on this demanding finisher.
Pro tip: if you don’t feel good about flying the water, be left off the tee. If you’re anywhere near the right-side trees your chances for par are toast!
A Timeless Tribute to Donald Ross
The Donald Ross Memorial Course at The Highlands is a masterpiece of homage, offering golfers a chance to experience some of the most iconic designs in the history of the game.
It’s a course that challenges and delights in equal measure, with every hole telling a story and showcasing Ross’s genius. For any fan of golf course architecture, it’s an absolute must-play especially if already in the Northern Michigan area.
Whether you’re a seasoned Ross aficionado or discovering his work for the first time, this “greatest hits” compilation is sure to leave an indelible impression.
For more on BOYNE Golf, check out their website
For more on the Donald Ross Memorial Course, view its BOYNE Golf landing page
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