Forest Dunes' Black Course, carved from the heart of Michigan's Roscommon forest, presents a stark contrast to its traditionally manicured brethren. A bold experiment in minimalist design, the Black Course demands a raw, untamed approach, embracing the natural imperfections of the landscape. Designed by Tom Doak, the Black Course, the second 18-hole course at Forest Dunes, eschews the traditional parkland aesthetic for a rugged, heathland character. Wide fairways invite aggression off the tee, but errant shots are swallowed by the surrounding pine barrens and scrub. The course is known for its firm and fast conditions. The strategic use of fescue grasses lends a links-like feel, albeit one deeply embedded in the American Midwest. There are very few forced carries for the average player. The course is an ode to the architecture of the 1920s. The Black Course is not known as a Major Championship venue, however it stands as a testament to the growing appetite for alternative golf experiences, appealing to those who favor creativity and strategic thinking over brute force. A local membership has quickly embraced the Black Course, making it a staple for those who prefer a change of pace to its sister course.