ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Northland Country Club is considered one of the top five golf courses in Minnesota and is recognized as a classic Donald Ross design.
About
Northland Country Club in Duluth, Minnesota is a storied, private 18-hole course designed by Donald Ross in 1927. Blending rolling, wooded parkland with strategic routing, it offers panoramic views of Lake Superior and a classic Ross challenge. Well-maintained Bentgrass surfaces and a storied past make it a favorite among Minnesota golf aficionados.
Caddie Tip
Play for the center of the greens, as many putting surfaces are elevated and well-bunkered. Trust Donald Ross's deceptive sight lines off the tee but avoid overcommitting to bold carries. Approach shots tend to run off if you miss short, so club up in the prevailing Lake Superior breeze.
The Main Challenge
Northland’s challenge lies in its sloping greens, punishing bunkers, and devilish false fronts—a Ross hallmark. Narrow, tree-lined fairways and unpredictable breezes off Lake Superior force precision off the tee and imaginative shotmaking on approach. Missing greens in the wrong spot almost always leads to a tough up-and-down.
The Good
Golfers praise Northland’s strategic Donald Ross design and the stunning vistas over Lake Superior. The greens are consistently excellent—fast and true—while the gently rolling, wooded terrain provides a classic, secluded golf experience. Members often mention the course’s walkability and its memorable, timeless appeal.
The Not So Good
Some players note that, during wet periods, sections of the fairways can get soggy, which may affect playability and turf conditions temporarily. The short season due to Duluth's climate can also limit access and conditions in early spring or late fall.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The 18th hole is a classic Donald Ross finisher, a par 4 that rises gently toward an elevated, well-contoured green protected by bunkers. Strategic tee placement is key to attacking the green in regulation. With Lake Superior in the backdrop, this hole captures the course’s mix of challenge and scenic appeal.
Clubhouse
Members enjoy full locker rooms, showers, a sauna, extensive dining options, a fully stocked golf shop, and spaces suitable for event hosting and socializing.
Practice Facilities
The club offers a driving range, pitching/chipping area, and putting green for comprehensive practice. Instruction is available from on-site PGA professionals for all skill levels.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
.avif)
.png)
.png)
