Garland Golf Resort Unveils “The Sawyer” — A New Reversible Short Course for Michigan Golfers

Garland Golf Resort is raising the bar for fun, fast golf in Northern Michigan with its newest addition: The Sawyer, a par 3, 10-hole reversible short course that celebrates the region’s deep-rooted lumbering history while delivering a fresh, modern twist for today’s golfers.

Built on a reimagined piece of Garland’s original nine-hole course, The Sawyer showcases rolling grassy undulations, carefully placed bunkers, and creatively shaped greens that make each round both challenging and memorable. Designed by architect Kelly Shumate, whose resume includes several acclaimed short courses across the country, The Sawyer offers a dynamic layout that can be played in either direction. Golfers can enjoy nine holes in one direction and ten in the other, thanks to multiple tee options and a clever layout that includes a massive 9,000 square-foot double green with a dramatic tier splitting it in two. The course is rotated daily.

Todd Godwin Construction brought Shumate’s vision to life, transforming the site into an innovative short course that honors the land’s natural contours while giving players a unique and social golf experience. Groups of up to 12 can play together, and the course can even be rented for private events — perfect for buddies’ trips, family outings, or casual competitive matches that wrap up in about an hour.

Garland Golf Resort’s General Manager, David Sanderson, shared his excitement for what The Sawyer brings to the resort and to Michigan golf:

“We’re thrilled to unveil The Sawyer to our guests and members. We know there’s growing demand for par 3 and short courses, and this design really checks all the boxes — it’s fun, it’s flexible, and it’s the perfect complement to our championship layouts. We can’t wait to see groups out there laughing, competing, and enjoying golf in a whole new way.”

Garland has always been a favorite getaway for Michigan golfers, and with The Sawyer now open, it’s clear they’re embracing the national trend toward short courses that prioritize creativity, shot-making, and pure enjoyment over long rounds and big scores.

Whether you’re squeezing in a quick loop before dinner, warming up your wedges, or gathering friends for a relaxed private round, The Sawyer at Garland Golf Resort is shaping up to be one of Michigan’s must-try new golf experiences.

Ready to play it? Visit Garland Golf Resort to learn more about The Sawyer and plan your next golf getaway.