10 Ways Gaylord Golf Mecca’s Black Bear Has Improved

By Greg Johnson

In 2024, Black Bear Golf Course was voted the most improved course in the country by GolfPass. The improvements are continuing this year under now second-year owners, Olivia and Rob Smith.

Gaylord Golf Mecca compiled a list of the Top 10 improvments. Learn why Black Bear has become a valued member of the 17 courses that make up the Gaylord Golf Mecca.

1. Black Bear’s reputation has skyrocketed from vastly improved online reviews. The scores were just above a 2.0 average when the Smiths took over operations and have now moved above 4.0.
2. Course conditions were a major concern. Hundreds of sprinkler heads were replaced improving the irrigation system. Due to the better watering system overall course conditions have improved 100 percent.
3. Total rounds played quadrupled from 2023 to 2024. Thus far in 2025, they are running almost double what they did one year ago. Word has spread that Black Bearis back as a quality golf experience.
4. A new cart fleet has contributed greatly to the experience. Most golfers will need a dependable cart to traverse the beautiful rolling terrain of Northern Michigan.
5. The course is not only a Gaylord Golf Meccacooperative marketing member, but now is also a member of the Golf Association of Michigan, thus scores can be posted for USGA Handicap purposes.
6. The Black Bear Bourbon Bar and the Black Bear Bar & Grillhave made the course a dining destination. Steak and bourbon go well with a summer golf round in Northern Michigan, and both are open year-round.
7. The clubhouse received a facelift, and the pro shop was revamped as well. It’s clear the owners have a passion for making it a wonderful place to golf, dine and have fun. Even the parking lot was improved.
8. Two Foresight Falcons Simulators have been installed and stay busy year-round. A snow-covered golf course, or a rainy day won’t stop golfers from their appointed rounds.
9. The price is right as Black Bear Golf Course remains one of the more affordable and well-conditioned courses in Northern Michigan.
10. On Thursday nights, live entertainment is provided for the grill and bar patrons. The owners want Black Bearto be more than just a place to play golf. They want all aspects to be fun, relaxing and a beautiful place to spend some time.

Because of their passion to create this Golf Mecca the owners have more plans to make Black Bear even better in the future.

Click HERE to learn more about the Gaylord Golf Mecca and Black Bear Golf Course.