
1~18 Course
Shepherds Hollow Golf Club

About this course
Shepherd's Hollow, carved from the glacial landscape north of Detroit, presents a stark departure from the region's typical parkland layouts. The course, unveiled in 2000, exhibits modern design sensibilities, rewarding thoughtful strategy over brute force. Architects, Arthur Hills/Steve Forrest and Associates, sculpted the course through dense hardwoods and dramatic elevation changes, resulting in a collection of challenging holes demanding accuracy off the tee. The generous fairways belie the undulating greens, which require precise approach shots to avoid treacherous slopes and penal bunkers. Favoring those who can work the ball both ways, it offers a diverse test for players of all abilities. While Shepherd's Hollow has not hosted major championships, it remains a popular destination for discerning golfers seeking a demanding yet scenic round. Known locally as a "thinking man's course", it fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among its membership, who appreciate the challenge and natural beauty. It's also known for its famous "Shepherd's Pie" which is a must try after a round.
Rankings
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Best in USA
Best in MI
Quick facts
- Location
- Clarkston, MI, USA
- Access
- Public
- Year built
- 2000
- Holes
- 18
- Designer
- Arthur Hills
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 7,236 yards
- Difficulty
- 76/146
- Course Vaults score
- 7.9
Getting there
The journey to Shepherds Hollow Golf Club begins at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), roughly forty-five minutes to the southeast, where the transition from urban sprawl to Oakland County's wooded residential enclaves unfolds with surprising swiftness. The drive north traces I-75 before peeling west into Clarkston, a landscape of rolling hills, glacial kettle lakes, and dense hardwood canopy that feels worlds removed from the Motor City's industrial hum. As Dixie Highway gives way to quieter township roads, the final approach reveals the club's secluded setting - a private sanctuary carved into Michigan's high country, where the only hint of arrival is a discreet entrance framed by native oak and maple.

FAQ
Common questions about 1~18 at Shepherds Hollow Golf Club
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
1~18 at Shepherds Hollow Golf Club has a Course Vaults score of 7.9 out of 10 based on 41 logged golfers.
1~18 was designed by Arthur Hills.
Yes. 1~18 at Shepherds Hollow Golf Club is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at 1~18 is 72.
1~18 plays 7,236 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at 1~18 is 146.





