Public

Black Bear Course

Black Bear Golf Club

Minong, WI, USA
PowerFader
+1
18 holesPar 726,316 yds70.1/119

About this course

Black Bear Golf Club sits in the forested lake country of northwestern Wisconsin, near the small town of Minong in Washburn County. Designed by John Passolt and opened in the mid-1990s, the course occupies rolling, wooded terrain characteristic of the region's glacially sculpted landscape. The routing winds through stands of pine, birch, and hardwoods, with elevation changes that provide natural definition to the holes and create a sense of seclusion throughout the round. The layout takes advantage of the property's topography, incorporating ridges, wetlands, and natural water features into the strategic design. Passolt, a Wisconsin-based architect who has designed several courses in the upper Midwest, crafted a course that emphasizes playability while respecting the native environment. Fairways are generally generous but require thoughtful positioning, as the tree-lined corridors and undulating ground reward accurate tee shots and approach play. Black Bear serves both local members and visitors exploring Wisconsin's Northwoods golf offerings. The course operates as part of the region's recreational landscape, where golf complements fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities centered on the area's numerous lakes. The clubhouse and facilities reflect the informal, welcoming character typical of northern Wisconsin golf clubs, where the focus remains on the game and the natural setting rather than elaborate amenities.

Quick facts

Location
Minong, WI, USA
Access
Public
Year built
2001
Designer
John Passolt
Holes
18
Par
72
Length
6,316 yards
Difficulty
70.1/119

Getting there

Black Bear Golf Club lies deep in the forested lake country of northwestern Wisconsin, roughly two and a half hours northeast of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). The drive traces a steady arc through the Twin Cities' outer suburbs before dissolving into the quiet, two-lane rhythm of Highway 53, where the landscape shifts to dense stands of birch and pine punctuated by glassy northern lakes. As you turn west toward Minong - a tiny crossroads town closer to the Canadian Shield than to any city - the final miles feel less like arrival and more like retreat, the pavement narrowing and the forest closing in around one of the Midwest's most secluded and wildly beautiful golf experiences.

FAQ

Common questions about Black Bear

Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.

Black Bear was designed by John Passolt.

Yes. Black Bear is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.

Par at Black Bear is 72.

Black Bear plays 6,316 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.

The slope rating at Black Bear is 119.

Black Bear is a 18-hole course.

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