BOYNE GOLF IN MICHIGAN By John Companiotte
Everett Kircher founded Boyne Resorts , in the northwest of Michigan , in 1947 by acquiring 40 acres of land with a modest ski hill for $ 1 , a pretty good bargain even then . Since that time , it has become the largest family-owned golf and ski company in North America .
In the 1960s , Kircher saw a demand for golf that warranted a championship layout from a renowned architect , calling on Robert Trent Jones Sr . for the assignment , who created The Heather course . It opened immediately as one of the top public golf courses in the country and would be the beginning of one of the world ' s premier , world-class golf destinations .
Today , Kircher ’ s vision has been passed on to his son Stephen , an accomplished golfer who continues elevating the Boyne Golf experience . With ten championship golf courses , the addition of a premier short course and putting course , and annual improvements to the golf , lodging , and restaurants , Boyne Golf continues to enhance its resources year after year from a history now that goes back more than 75 years .
The set of golf courses includes Bay Harbor , often called the “ Pebble Beach of the Midwest ” because of its breathtaking holes and views off the shores of Lake Michigan . Then there are the courses of The Highlands and Boyne Mountain properties , all unique and characterized by elevation change , incredible views , classic designs , and excellent conditions .
PORTFOLIO MAGAZINE 49