Black Bear Golf Resort - Gaylord, Michigan

Black Bear Golf Resort in Vanderbilt, about 10 miles north of Gaylord, is one of northern Michigan's better values. Built in 1998, the golf course struggled out of the gate, but with a recent ownership change it seems poised to make a comeback.

Following a series of upgrades and facelifts, conditions are above average. Much of the long heather that was allowed to grow out in past years has been mowed down, and the stunning view at the 17th hole has been preserved intact. There's a gimmicky extra hole, a par 3 "warm-up" before the first tee, but overall the golf course is on the short side, with several compact par 4s. While not in the same league as nearby Treetops or Black Forest, Black Bear is a good bargain in an upscale-golf area.