First reversible golf course to open June 27

The Loop, an 18-hole reversible design, will open at Forest Dunes Golf Club, Roscommon, Mich., on June 27.

Designed by golf course designer Tom Doak, this course is the first of its kind in the U.S.

“It’s sure got a lot of people talking about Forest Dunes,” says Doak. “I get asked about the reversible course everywhere I go, and probably half the people just think I’m crazy and are hoping for proof!”

Golf Channel travel expert Matt Ginella toured the layout last fall with Doak and sat down with the architect and owner Lew Thompson to discuss the concept. If you want to check out the seven-minute Architecture Week segment, click here.

“One of our goals with creating this new golf course was to make Forest Dunes a golf destination where golfers from around the country would want to come and stay for multiple nights and have a unique golf experience versus just passing through,” says general manager Chad Maveus. “What we have now with The Loop is in essence three golf courses and a golf package that will allow golfers to stay for two-nights to play all three courses.”

Doak hopes the first reaction of golfers to The Loop is that the golf course is fun, regardless of which direction they played.

“The second reaction; we want them to be curious,” he says. “We want them to wonder how could it be just as good playing it backwards. Then if they play it the next day, I’m not sure they will be able to remember exactly which hole was which the other way round. The hope is that people are fascinated to play it some more so they can understand how it fits together.”

The Loop, with its reversible design concept, will be a walking only experience featuring the option of professional caddies. The two different layouts will alternate directions on a daily basis.

Photo: Forest Dunes