
Northland Course
Northland Country Club



About this course
Northland Country Club, overlooking the vast expanse of Lake Superior in Duluth, Minnesota, stands as a testament to early 20th-century golf course design. The original routing, dating back to 1908, is attributed to Tom Bendelow, whose layout made the most of the rolling, parkland terrain. Subsequent refinements by Donald Ross in the late 1920s solidified its enduring charm. While not a regular on championship rotations, Northland has historically been a significant regional player, and hosts various state and local events. The layout, though not overly long by modern standards, presents a strategic challenge with its mature trees, subtly contoured greens, and windswept setting along the lake. Favoring those who can shape the ball, the course often requires creative shotmaking rather than brute force. Northland retains a classic, unpretentious atmosphere. The membership, known for their deep roots in the Duluth community, prizes the club's convivial spirit and the stunning lakeside views offered from nearly every hole. Post-round, members often gather in the clubhouse, renowned locally for its hearty Midwestern fare and unpretentious atmosphere - cementing Northland's status as a beloved fixture on the Duluth landscape.
Rankings
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Private column compares member-only and guest-restricted courses.
Best in World
Best in USA
Best in MN
Quick facts
- Location
- Duluth, MN, USA
- Access
- Private
- Year built
- 1899
- Holes
- 18
- Designer
- Donald Ross
- Par
- 71
- Length
- 6,825 yards
- Difficulty
- 73.2/136
- Course Vaults score
- 8.5
Getting there
The journey to Northland Country Club begins at Duluth International Airport, a compact regional hub perched above the western shore of Lake Superior, just fifteen minutes from the club's gates. The brief drive northeast traces the dramatic topography that defines this corner of Minnesota - a landscape of granite outcroppings, dense boreal forest, and sudden elevation changes carved by ancient glacial retreat. As you ascend into the wooded hillside above the city, the air grows noticeably cooler and the views more expansive, offering glimpses of the vast inland sea below before the road delivers you to Northland's secluded, tree-lined entrance.

FAQ
Common questions about Northland
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Northland has a Course Vaults score of 8.5 out of 10 based on 37 logged golfers.
Northland was designed by Donald Ross.
Northland is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at Northland is 71.
Northland plays 6,825 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Northland is 136.






