
River Course
Superior National Golf Club
About this course
The River Course at Superior National Golf Club occupies forested terrain along the Poplar River in northeastern Minnesota, roughly an hour north of Duluth near the North Shore of Lake Superior. Don Herfort and Joel Goldstrand designed the layout to work with the natural topography of the Superior National Forest, incorporating elevation changes, dense stands of birch and pine, and views toward the lake and surrounding wilderness. The course opened in the mid-1990s as part of a northern Minnesota resort development aimed at destination golf in a region better known for outdoor recreation than championship layouts. The routing moves through varied terrain, with several holes playing along ridgelines and others descending into wooded corridors. The Poplar River comes into play on multiple holes, adding both scenic interest and strategic challenge. Fairways are generally generous given the tree-lined character, but approach shots demand accuracy to greens that reflect the rolling land. The course serves both resort guests and daily-fee players, fitting into the North Shore's seasonal tourism economy. Superior National's setting distinguishes it more than architectural innovation. The combination of northwoods forest, river crossings, and proximity to Lake Superior gives the course a distinct sense of place. Conditioning and playability vary with Minnesota's short northern golf season, but the layout provides a solid option for golfers exploring the region's limited supply of full-length courses.
Quick facts
- Location
- Lutsen, MN, USA
- Access
- Public
- Year built
- 1991
- Designer(s)
- Don Herfort, Joel Goldstrand
- Holes
- 9
- Par
- 35
- Length
- 3,291 yards
Getting there
The journey to Superior National Golf Club begins at Duluth International Airport (DLH), roughly ninety minutes south, where the landscape gradually shifts from the urban edge of Lake Superior's western shore into the forested spine of northeastern Minnesota. From there, the drive north traces Highway 61 along the lake's dramatic rocky coastline, a route that climbs steadily into the boreal wilderness before arriving at Lutsen - a transition marked by the deepening green of ancient pine and birch forests and the crisp, mineral-tinged air of the North Shore. The final miles wind through this quiet, unspoiled terrain to the club's secluded perch above the Cascade River valley, where the architecture and grounds blend seamlessly into the landscape that defines this remote corner of the Upper Midwest. For those seeking the ultimate in discretion and convenience, Duluth's general aviation facilities provide access to the region's smaller strips, though the road journey itself - unhurried and immersive - remains the truest introduction to Superior National's singular character.

FAQ
Common questions about River at Superior National Golf Club
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
River was designed by Don Herfort and Joel Goldstrand.
Yes. River at Superior National Golf Club is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at River is 35.
River plays 3,291 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
River is a 9-hole course.



