There is one popular nature-themed resort aways up north that looks at autumn (and winter, for that matter) and laughs. Black Wolf Run at the Five Star American Club in Kohler shines in the summer as it hosts nature-loving golfers and hikers to its grounds. But, unlike its elite nearby sister course (Whistling Straits), Black Wolf Run and its River Wildlife Recreational area remains open as the leaves fall and the snow flies.
Related: Travel to Whistling Straits
On a recent tour and run around Black Wolf Run, I had a chance to play 18 at the beautiful course that played host to an LPGA Major in the past. (It’s laid out a little too short for a men’s championship level tournament.) The course is gorgeous — the kind of lush, natural layout folks can hike without a nine iron in sight.
The course, designed by the legendary Pete Dye, differs significantly from nearby Whistling Straits. Black Wolf Run offers more traditional, park styled golf. It’s much more friendly and playable than Whistling Straits (commonly known as the most difficult public course in the U.S.). As with many Dye courses, many holes rise on the edges — creating a bowl to keep the ball in play for amateur players.
However, many holes also have a familiar Dye feature — water or sand in the middle of the fairway that the player can carry if he or she has courage. When you add in some great elevated tees and water-dominated par threes, Black Wolf Run is a special course.
But, non-golfers flock to The American Club and Black Wolf Run to visit the grounds of another local attraction — the River Wildlife Recreational area. Whether a hiker, a camper, a bird watcher, a fly fisherman or just the outdoorsy type, River Wildlife provides the same natural beauty as golfers enjoy just a skipped stone’s distance away.
Finally, regardless of the time of year or the weather, the Blackwolf Run Restaurant stays open. Featuring a mix of locally sourced, regional food and rustic gourmet selections, the restaurant is prime dining establishment for American Club visitors from around the world.
