By Fred Altvater
The warm sunshine has finally melted the snow in northern Michigan and Golfaholics are beginning their annual treks to the land of a thousand lakes, tall pines and some of the best golf courses to be found.
Two courses that most travelers to Northern Michigan drive right by on I-75, but fail to stop and explore are The Nightmare and The Dream at West Branch.
Golf is a Family Affair
The Dream opened for play in 1997 and The Nightmare followed six years later in 2003. Two Brothers Dan and Tom Courtemanche built the Dream, but they were not new to the golf business, their father Art, built Green Hills Golf Course in Pinconning, in 1971.
After Tom’s passing the third generation, Dan and Darcy Courtemanche are now involved in the operation. Plus, the family owns a fourth course, Gladwin Heights, operated by daughter, Jann and her husband John Schumacher.
The Nightmare 
Don’t let the name scare you, The Nightmare is anything, but a horrific experience. In fact, it is a beautiful rolling property, winding its way among tall pines and exquisitely manicured fairways. This is an upscale public golf course that gives everyone a country club feel.
The Nightmare’s four sets of tees will allow for an enjoyable golf experience for any skill level. The Par 72 can be stretched to over 7,000 yards (132 slope) for the low handicapper, or a more manageable 5,100 yards (121 slope) for the higher handicap golfer.
Wide fairways, framed by bunkers, along with large undulating greens make The Nightmare, one of the best golf experiences you will ever have.
The Dream
The Dream is only three miles from downtown West Branch and was carved out of 300 acres of native hardwoods, to give it that true Northern Michigan feel.
This is a championship golf course that accommodates golfers of all abilities. The views are spectacular, the bunker placements near perfect and the greens are receptive to approach shots. The greens are large and average 10,000 square feet. Three putts, or more, are always lurking.
Four sets of tees accommodate every golfer. The tips can play to 7,000 yards (132 slope) or an inviting 5,118 yards for mere mortals.
Apres’ Golf
Both courses offer a variety of food choices for after your round, plus they specialize in providing the right menu and service for any outing or special event.
Stay & Play
Stay & Play Packages are available to accommodate buddy’s trips. Plus, in the near future, new cottages will be added for golfing convenience.
For current “Stay & Play” options visit: http://www.thedream.golf/stay-and-play/
BYOB
One of the popular features of both the Nightmare and the Dream is that neither holds a liquor license, so golfers can BYOB. Both courses will provide ice and coolers to be used, plus large groups can save by purchasing their own adult beverages for an outing or event.
Recommendation
After years of zooming by these two beauties, we were able to play the Nightmare, as well as, view The Dream last summer and were very impressed with the design, condition and overall feel of both courses. Don’t be fooled by other Big-Name Michigan Resorts, these are two of the very best courses anyone can play in Northern Michigan.
We recommend seeing for yourself. The next time you are zipping up I-75, take Exit 212 and play a few holes at The Nightmare and The Dream or bring you buddies for a memorable golf adventure.
