Cragun's Resort sits on Gull Lake in the Brainerd Lakes region of central Minnesota, an area known for its concentration of resort golf dating to the mid-twentieth century. The Reversible 9 course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., offers an unusual feature: the nine holes can be played in either direction, clockwise or counterclockwise, effectively creating two distinct routing experiences from the same piece of property. This counterclockwise configuration presents the holes in reverse order from the standard routing. The reversible concept requires careful design to ensure that greens function as tees when played in the opposite direction, and that holes work strategically from both orientations. Jones, known for his international portfolio and strategic design philosophy, creates interest through varied hole lengths and angles that shift depending on the direction of play. The layout moves through rolling terrain typical of Minnesota's glacial landscape, with mature trees framing fairways and water features coming into play on several holes. Cragun's operates as a family resort destination, and the reversible nine complements the property's other golf offerings. The format appeals to guests staying multiple days who want variety without leaving the resort grounds. The course serves recreational golfers looking for a playable, engaging experience rather than championship-level difficulty, fitting the resort's broader mission of accessible lakeside recreation in Minnesota's north woods.

Cragun's Resort sits on Gull Lake in the Brainerd Lakes region of central Minnesota, an area known for its concentration of resort golf dating to the mid-twentieth century. The Reversible 9 course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., offers an unusual feature: the nine holes can be played in either direction, clockwise or counterclockwise, effectively creating two distinct routing experiences from the same piece of property. This counterclockwise configuration presents the holes in reverse order from the standard routing. The reversible concept requires careful design to ensure that greens function as tees when played in the opposite direction, and that holes work strategically from both orientations. Jones, known for his international portfolio and strategic design philosophy, creates interest through varied hole lengths and angles that shift depending on the direction of play. The layout moves through rolling terrain typical of Minnesota's glacial landscape, with mature trees framing fairways and water features coming into play on several holes. Cragun's operates as a family resort destination, and the reversible nine complements the property's other golf offerings. The format appeals to guests staying multiple days who want variety without leaving the resort grounds. The course serves recreational golfers looking for a playable, engaging experience rather than championship-level difficulty, fitting the resort's broader mission of accessible lakeside recreation in Minnesota's north woods.