The History of Treetops: From Sylvan Knob to Distinguished Golf Destination
Humble beginnings: Sylvan Knob Ski Area
The story of Treetops Resort begins in 1954 when a group of local businessmen, led by Harry Melling, founded the Sylvan Knob Ski Area. Located just east of Gaylord, Michigan, this modest ski operation took advantage of the region's abundant snowfall and rolling terrain. The initial development included a small lodge and a handful of ski runs, marking the area's entry into the winter sports tourism industry.
Throughout the 1960s and early 1970s, Sylvan Knob gradually expanded its offerings, adding more runs and improving its facilities. The ski area became a popular destination for Michigan residents seeking winter recreation, laying the foundation for what would eventually become a year-round resort.
The Transition to Treetops
In 1983, a significant change occurred when auto parts magnate Harry Melling purchased Sylvan Knob. Melling, with his vision and resources, saw the potential to transform the ski area into a world-class, year-round resort. This acquisition marked the beginning of the transition from Sylvan Knob to Treetops Resort.
Melling's first major move was to expand into golf, a decision that would ultimately define the resort's future. He enlisted the legendary golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. to design the resort's first course.
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The golf evolution
1987 marked a pivotal year in the resort's history with the opening of The Masterpiece course. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., this course immediately put Treetops on the map, showcasing the dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking views that would become synonymous with the Treetops golfing experience.
The success of The Masterpiece spurred rapid expansion of the resort's golf offerings:
- 1992: The Premier course, designed by Tom Fazio, opened to acclaim.
- 1993: The Signature course, Rick Smith's first design, debuted.
- 1994: The Tradition course, another Rick Smith design, was added.
- 1999: Threetops, the award-winning par-3 course also designed by Rick Smith, rounded out the resort's golf portfolio.
Rising to prominence
As the golf courses matured and the reputation spread, Treetops began attracting national attention. Golf publications consistently ranked the resort's courses among the best in Michigan and among the entire United States. The resort's reputation was further enhanced by hosting professional events and being featured on ESPN for the Par Three Shootout during the 1990s.
The addition of top-notch practice facilities, including the Rick Smith Golf Academy, cemented Treetops' status as a complete golf destination. The resort became known not just for its exceptional courses, but also as a place where golfers could improve their skills under expert tutelage.
Expanding beyond golf
While golf became the cornerstone of Treetops' identity, the resort never forgot its winter sports roots. Significant investments were made to enhance the ski facilities, including new lifts, expanded snowmaking capabilities, and improved terrain. This commitment to both summer and winter activities truly established Treetops as a year-round destination.
The resort also expanded its lodging, dining, and amenity offerings. The original Sylvan Knob lodge was supplemented with new accommodations, restaurants, and conference facilities, transforming Treetops into a full-service resort capable of hosting everything from family vacations to corporate retreats.
Challenges and resilience
Like many resorts, Treetops has faced its share of challenges over the years. Economic downturns, changing travel patterns, and even ownership changes have tested the resort's resilience. However, the strong foundation built during the Melling years and the continued commitment to excellence have allowed Treetops to weather these storms and emerge stronger.
Legacy and future
Today, Treetops Resort stands as a testament to the vision of Harry Melling and the hard work of countless individuals over the decades. From its humble beginnings as Sylvan Knob Ski Area to its current status as a distinguished golf resort, Treetops has continually raised the bar for hospitality and outdoor recreation in northern Michigan.
As Treetops looks to the future, it remains committed to the principles that guided its development: a dedication to outstanding golf, a commitment to natural beauty, and a passion for creating memorable experiences for every guest.
The resort's history is a proud one, spanning from a local ski hill to a nationally recognized golf destination, and its future promises to be just as bright.
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