Treetops Resort

Treetops Resort. It is a premier four-season destination located in the Gaylord area of Northern Michigan, renowned for its extensive golf offerings and winter sports facilities. Founded in the mid-20th century, the resort has grown into a major hub for tourism and recreation within the Midwestern United States. Its development is closely tied to the vision of prominent golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. and later expansions under various ownership groups.

History

The property's origins trace to 1955 when Harry Melling of the Melling Tool Company began developing the land, initially establishing a modest ski hill. The resort's significant transformation began with the 1957 hiring of legendary golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., who designed the original Premier golf course, cementing its reputation within the American golf community. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, ownership changed hands, including a period under the Telemark Company, before being acquired by the Birmingham-based Resort Seminars International in the 1980s. This era saw aggressive expansion, including the development of additional golf courses by designers like Tom Fazio and Rick Smith, positioning the resort as a golf destination of national note.

Facilities and amenities

The resort's central lodge offers lodging with views of the Pigeon River Valley, complemented by numerous condominium units and townhouse villas for extended stays. Dining options range from casual grills to fine dining at venues like the Junipers restaurant. For conferences and events, the property features extensive meeting space capable of hosting large groups, supported by professional services from Destination Hotels. Other recreational amenities include multiple swimming pool complexes, a modern fitness center, and a full-service spa offering various therapeutic treatments.

Golf courses

Treetops is celebrated for its collection of five distinct 18-hole golf courses, each presenting unique challenges and landscapes. The flagship Robert Trent Jones Sr. Masterpiece course is known for its dramatic elevation changes and demanding par-3 holes over deep ravines. The Tom Fazio-designed Premier course showcases expansive greens and strategic bunker placements, while the Rick Smith Signature course emphasizes playability and scenic beauty. The resort also features the Smith-designed Tradition and the par-3 Threetops course, the latter famous for hosting televised skins game events involving professionals like Lee Trevino and Phil Mickelson.

Winter activities

During the colder months, the resort transforms into a comprehensive ski area with terrain for all ability levels, serviced by multiple chairlifts including a high-speed quad chairlift. Its snowmaking system ensures reliable conditions for alpine skiing and snowboarding, with instruction available through the Ski School. The property also maintains extensive trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, as well as dedicated areas for snow tubing. Nearby attractions like the Otsego Club and Boyne Mountain Resort contribute to the region's status as a major winter sports destination.

Ownership and management

Since 2016, the resort has been owned and operated by Boyne Resorts, a major player in the North American ski industry with other holdings such as Big Sky Resort and Brighton Ski Resort. This acquisition integrated Treetops into a larger portfolio of four-season destinations, leading to capital investments in infrastructure and amenities. Prior management included a long-term partnership with the Wyndham group, and the resort has been a frequent host for events organized by the Golf Association of Michigan and other regional sporting bodies. Category:Resorts in Michigan Category:Ski areas and resorts in Michigan Category:Golf clubs and courses in Michigan Category:Buildings and structures in Otsego County, Michigan