Giants Ridge: Minnesota’s “Double Diamond”
While high heat and humidity can make late summer downright unbearable in many parts of the country, it’s perfect golf weather at Northern Minnesota’s Giants Ridge. The Biwabik golf resort, nestled in the unspoiled beauty of the Mesabi Iron Range, features two of the top-ranked layouts in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” With plenty of daylight to play 36 holes daily, summer is an ideal time to visit.
While high heat and humidity can make late summer downright unbearable in many parts of the country, it’s perfect golf weather at Northern Minnesota’s Giants Ridge. The Biwabik golf resort, nestled in the unspoiled beauty of the Mesabi Iron Range, features two of the top-ranked layouts in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” With plenty of daylight to play 36 holes daily, summer is an ideal time to visit. A four-season family recreation destination, Giants Ridge was the only Minnesota property to earn a 2018 Golf Digest Editor’s Choice Award for “Best Golf Resorts in the Midwest.” This golf “giant” offers guests a chance to unplug and unwind while enjoying the property’s two distinct 18-hole courses, The Legend and The Quarry. This duo of dramatic designs represents some of Jeffrey Brauer’s finest work.
The Legend
The original Giants Ridge layout, The Legend opened in 1997 to rave reviews. Tucked away in the pristine natural splendor of the northwoods, the player-friendly course plays through towering pines and alongside glittering Sabin Lake. The resort course features wide fairways, but undulating greens, strategically-placed bunkers and water hazards create enjoyable challenges throughout.
The Quarry
While The Legend is characterized by smooth lines and serenity, The Quarry is home to rugged terrain and exhilarating obstacles including dramatically raised tees and hazards forged from reclaimed and repurposed mine land. The exceptional layout – built on the site of a former sand quarry and iron ore mine – provides a beguiling test for even the most skilled golfers. A true “must-play” course, The Quarry is rated the “Best Course You Can Play” in Minnesota by Golfweek and GOLF Magazine. Beware the intimidating par-5 fifth hole, which demands a massive carry to a classically-angled fairway and a precise approach shot to a green guarded by water.
Accommodations
The Lodge at Giants Ridge is conveniently located just steps from The Legend’s clubhouse, which means guests can easily roll out of bed and hit the links. Ideal for groups, The Lodge offers a variety of suite layouts from one to four bedrooms. Cozy linens and comfortable beds ensure you’ll be well-rested before your round. Stock the kitchen with your favorite morning essentials or head to Sleeping Giant Restaurant & Bar – located on the lobby level of the Lodge – for breakfast. Other on-site restaurants at Giants Ridge include Burnt Onion Kitchen & Brews in the new chalet, Wacootah Grille in The Quarry’s clubhouse overlooking the 18th green and the sparkling blue waters of Lake Mine and Bunkers Snack Bar located at the turn between the first and ninth holes at The Legend.
Other Activities
In addition to legendary golf, Giants Ridge also features a wide variety of other outdoor activities including biking, hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, disc golf and climbing on the new 32’ rock wall. New this year are approximately 2.5 miles of purpose-built gravity mountain bike trails, set to open in mid-July. In winter, Giants Ridge becomes a ski and snowboard hot spot offering 35 downhill ski runs, over 60 km of the finest-groomed Nordic ski trails and the best snowboarding terrain park in Minnesota.
Golf Special
Through Sept. 3, play both The Legend and Quarry – and enjoy lunch between rounds – for just $145 pp Monday – Thursday or $160 pp Friday – Sunday.