| Deer
Run Golf Course (continued)
Deer Run, the only golf course on Washington Island, is a regulation
nine-hole, par 36 course. “Up here you can really get away from
it all and spend time enjoying the outdoors,” says Trudy. “The
course is designed to take advantage of the natural beauty of the island
and welcome golfers of all levels.” And golfers really can leave
it all behind on the mainland – or at least leave their cars behind.
The course provides a free shuttle service for its visitors to and from
the ferry dock. This service is just as hassle-free as the rest of the
experience. Golfers only need to call the clubhouse as they are either
boarding the ferry or disembarking at the island and the shuttle will
pick them up. Club rentals are available at Deer Run so visitors can travel
light if they wish. With the course located just a few minutes’
stroll from the downtown area of the island, many golfers find that they
really don’t miss their vehicles after all.
The Deer Run Golf Course has been in existence since 1970 and in 1997
Dan and Trudy took ownership. Since taking over the course, Dan and Trudy
have given the entire operation an overhaul. They began with small changes
and worked their way up to an entire course renovation in 1999. In 2004,
members of the Wisconsin State Golf Association (WSGA) came to Deer Run
to help Dan and Trudy with further course design renovation. Making the
course more challenging for their advanced players, while not losing its
appeal for entry-level golfers, was one of the Schelitzche’s main
goals. The WSGA had many suggestions that were implemented. More pronounced
doglegs were created and elevated tee boxes were installed on the course.
The creation of a large pond on the first and ninth holes has created
an attractive and exciting water hazard. Additional sand traps, two of
which are in the shape of Detroit and Washington Islands, were added and
the greens present a greater trial than in the past.
The course itself reflects the beauty of the island that is its home.
Ranging from open meadows that begin on the first hole to beautiful wooded
stretches, golfers will enjoy the picturesque scenery as they play. Enjoying
the scenery can also become part of the game, as overshooting on short
hole number five can result in a hike in the woods looking for a lost
ball. From the separate tee boxes on hole number six, golfers can choose
whether or not to take advantage of the challenging dogleg, again highlighting
the diverse aspects of a course designed with golfers of all skill level
in mind.
Making Deer Run a destination for the whole family was important to the
Schelitzches. While the nine-hole course is geared toward all levels of
player, the addition of the 18-hole Adventure Island Miniature Golf course
in 2006 has provided a spot for even the youngest player to come enjoy
the game. “We have tried to make sure that everyone can find something
to enjoy when visiting Deer Run,” says Trudy. It is a great place
to have a family tournament or friendly competition. After an exciting
round of “big” or “mini” golf enjoying a beverage
at the clubhouse restaurant is the perfect opportunity to unwind.
The clubhouse Pub and Grill at the course serves lunch and snacks. One
avid Door County golfer says, “Golfing at Deer Run is a lot of fun,
but my favorite part of the experience is sitting out on the back deck
after a round and enjoying a cheeseburger. They have one of the best cheeseburgers
in the county.” Trudy laughed when she heard this and quipped, “Funny,
I had always thought our chicken sandwich was the favorite!” The
deck and clubhouse provide views of the course and a good place to relax
while grabbing a bite before or after a game. A visit to the Pro Shop
will ensure that you leave with a memento of your time at Deer Run.
For golfers who would like to stay overnight on Washington Island and
take advantage of the early morning or twilight rates offered at the course,
Deer Run has accommodations available. Deer Run Resort offers a charming
small hotel located next to the clubhouse adjoining the course. Also available
for rent are two historic, fully renovated lakefront houses for those
who would like to enjoy the water as well as the golf course during their
stay. During the months of July and August the houses are available weekly.
Special golfing packages for hotel and lakefront house occupants are available.
Crossing Death’s Door (and somewhere in the middle of it, the “tension
line”) to explore Washington Island is an adventure that is made
even more fulfilling by a visit to Deer Run Golf Course and Resort. So
leave all of your worries on the mainland and come relax, enjoy the outdoors,
and an enchanting afternoon of sport and camaraderie while visiting Deer
Run.
Information
Address:
1885 Michigan Road, Washington Island
Phone:
(920) 847-2017
Email:
deerrungolf4@hotmail.com
Website:
www.deerrunwi.com
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