Smith’s Signature Course: Scottish roots at Treetops
Where Scottish Roots Meet Michigan Majesty
When Rick Smith set out to design his first course at Treetops Resort back in 1993, he didn't just create a golf course – he painted a masterpiece inspired by the game's ancient roots. The Signature course stands as a testament to Smith's vision, blending the rugged charm of Scottish and Irish links with the lush beauty of northern Michigan. Buckle up, golf aficionados, as we take you on a journey through this modern classic.
A Vision Rooted in Tradition
Picture this: It's the early '90s, and Rick Smith, already a renowned golf instructor, embarks on a pilgrimage to the hallowed grounds of Scotland and Ireland. Immersed in the birthplace of golf, Smith soaks in every nuance, every contour, every whisper of the wind across the ancient links. This wasn't just a trip – it was the genesis of what would become the Signature course.
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Bringing the Old World to the New
Returning to Michigan, Smith had a clear vision: to create a course that would transport players across the Atlantic with every swing. The result? A layout that manages to feel both timeless and thoroughly modern. As you stand on the first tee, you can almost hear the echoes of golf's pioneers urging you on.
A Strategic Masterclass
The Signature course is a thinking golfer's paradise. Like its Scottish inspiration, it's not about brute force – it's about strategy, creativity, and shotmaking. Wide fairways might tempt you to swing freely, but beware: positioning is key. Smith's clever design ensures that the best angle to approach these undulating greens is often from a specific section of the fairway. It's a course that rewards those who play chess, not just checkers.
Nature's Amphitheater
One of the Signature's most striking features is how it embraces the natural terrain. Smith didn't so much design the course as discover it, revealing holes that seem to have been there for centuries. Dramatic elevation changes offer breathtaking views and exhilarating shots. The par-3 7th, with its steep drop and green nestled among the trees, is a particular heart-stopper.
A Test for All
Don't let the word "links" fool you – the Signature offers a unique challenge to every golfer. Low handicappers will find their skills thoroughly examined, especially when the Michigan winds kick up. Yet, the course remains approachable for less experienced players, with multiple tees and generous landing areas. It's a rare design that manages to challenge the skilled while nurturing the developing player.
The Signature Experience
Playing the Signature is more than just a round of golf – it's an experience. From the moment you arrive, you're transported. The clubhouse, with its warm wood tones and Scottish-inspired decor, sets the tone. As you make your way through the course, each hole unfolds like a new chapter in an epic tale. And the finale? The 18th hole brings you home in spectacular fashion, a fitting end to a remarkable journey.
A Living Legacy
Since its debut in 1993, the Signature has stood as a shining example of modern course design rooted in golf's rich heritage. It's not just Smith's first course at Treetops – it's the course that launched his design career and set the standard for what was to come. The Signature paved the way for Smith's subsequent Treetops creations: the links-style Tradition and the innovative Threetops par-3 course.
More Than Just Golf
The Signature course offers more than just 18 holes of world-class golf. It's a gateway to understanding the game's roots, a chance to connect with golf's history while enjoying modern amenities. The practice facilities are top-notch, allowing you to groove your swing before tackling the course. And let's not forget the 19th hole – the perfect place to relive your round and plan your next visit.
Your Turn to Make History
As the first of his Treetops trilogy, Smith’s Signature holds a special place in Michigan golf lore. It's where his vision first took shape, where the spirit of Scottish links found a home in the heart of America. Every future round will be part of that continuing story.
So, whether you're a scratch golfer looking for a test or an enthusiastic amateur seeking to walk in the footsteps of golf's greats, the Signature course awaits. Experience Rick Smith's original work of art – where every drive, approach, and putt is a brushstroke on the canvas of golf history. On Treetops' Signature course, you're not just playing a round—you're signing your name to golf's enduring legacy.
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