Lakes of
Taylor Golf Club

By Mark “Sparky” Honey
from Two Guys Who Golf

The LAKES OF TAYLOR GOLF CLUB (734-784-4653), located on Northline Road just west of Telegraph, offers one of the finest golfing opportunities in west metro.

Their 32,000 square ft. clubhouse includes a pro shop, bar & grill, snack counter and Banquet center. A grass driving range and short game learning center are on property, as well as a 10,000 sq.ft. putting green. Their web site provides tons of information on the course and facilities, including a two day weather forecast for Taylor. The par 72, 7028 yard Arthur Hills designed course provides a considerable challenge with 5 man-made lakes encompassing 35 acres of water on the 306 acres of property.

There is also over 53 acres of wetlands, spread out over a layout that is tight, but fair. The course is visually pleasing, with fountains, ponds, bridges, boardwalks and abundant wildlife to be seen.

There are quite a few doglegs, sculpted by mature trees and water hazards, with sand bunkers strategically placed. We found the landing areas to be fair however, with a flat lie and a good look at the green rewarding a decently placed tee shot. Wooden stakes are placed at the 100/150/200 yardage areas - giving you ample distance information and a target to strike at. The pin placement information system (flag markers) was also quite accurate.

• Past reviews: Two Guys Who Golf

After 2 weeks of very little rain, many Michigan courses are naturally trying to conserve water. This means the grass is cut less often. The greens at The Lakes were a bit on the long side (ie - slow), which made it easy to hold the green on approach shots, but difficult to put on.

The rough was also pretty penal. Accurate tee shots to the fairways made a tremendous difference in scoring (1 or 2 strokes if we were in the rough). Prior course knowledge would have helped on a few holes - which makes us want to return and play the course again.

The Lakes of Taylor is that type of course. Prices are reasonable enough - for the upscale design and conditions we encountered.

There are some very interesting holes including the par 3 17th which requires an accurate (mid to longrange iron) tee shot to a green along a river protected by an imposing retaining wall.

The par five18th demands an accurate approach to the large putting surface, with the beautifully designed clubhouse (and more water) in the background. These two closing holes are among the best in SE Michigan. We enjoyed our round and the friendly service, and are sure you will too!