A 63-Hole Minnesota Golf Getaway: Madden’s on Gull Lake

If you’re seeking a family-owned and -operated golf facility in a quiet location, look no further than Brainerd, Minnesota’s Madden’s on Gull Lake.

Family-owned and operated during the last 96 years, the resort offers four golf courses: three 18-hole courses and one 9-hole course. As a result, you’ll be able to enjoy 63 holes of golf, all nestled within a few minutes of each other.

“Due to its four courses, along with seven restaurants and 287 guest accommodations, Madden’s has been recognized as a ‘Top Midwest Destination’ by both Condé Nast and Travel & Leisure,” says Glenn Hagberg, PGA Head Golf Professional. “Through each of our offerings, we believe such recognition will continue for years to come.”

Rated among America’s “100 Greatest Public Courses” by Golf Digest since 2003, The Classic at Madden’s is the resort’s most popular course. 7,102 yards long from the back tees, The Classic is renowned for its natural beauty and various challenges.

Featuring fairways surrounded by large oak and pine trees, along with pristine greens that roll true consistently, The Classic is fair for all golfers as well. To ensure everyone will enjoy it, it has five other tee boxes, ranging in length from 4,859 to 6,717 yards.

Another 18-hole course, Pine Beach East, has also become popular in recent years. A historic gem that will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026, the course features Minnesota’s only par-6 hole, the 618-yard 6th. Yet, despite this long hole, Pine Beach East is only 6,154 yards long from the back tees, enabling everyone to relish it.

The resort’s final 18-hole course, Pine Beach West, was built in 1965. A compliment to the other 18-hole courses — especially for guests interested in playing all three back-to-back-to-back — this course is even shorter than Pine Beach East, measuring 5,070 yards from the back tees. Consequently, golfers of all skill levels will have another experience to treasure.

Finally, for golfers who aren’t interested in playing 18-hole rounds (or are searching for a completely different experience than the 18-hole courses provide), they’re welcome to enjoy The Social 9. A par-28, 1,341-yard course, The Social 9’s holes range in length from 95 to 265 yards.

“It’s a great casual option for beginners, families and golf groups,” Hagberg says.

As guests explore each of these four courses, he believes their scenery will especially stand out, even on The Social 9 course.

“Every course has a unique Northwoods setting — everything you’d expect in Northern Minnesota from a natural beauty standpoint,” Hagberg adds. “From its lakes and towering pines, to its scenic elevation changes and wetlands, you definitely won’t be disappointed by the views.”

Each year, Madden’s on Gull Lake reinvests roughly $2 million into the property, ensuring each of its facilities remain as gorgeous as its views of Gull Lake.

Currently, The Classic’s bunkers and tee boxes are being renovated. Last year, the resort’s Airport Driving Range was completely modernized, too.

“The Driving Range now features 14 target greens, bunkers, and fairway, rough, and green grasses and contours,” Hagberg states.

Therefore, it will continue to provide memorable experiences to thousands of guests across the country annually. In fact, its typical yearly total (over 70,000 guests) may very well increase in the future.

“It’s a great location to get together with other people for one day or multiple days,” Hagberg adds. “We’re looking forward to what’s to come as more and more golfers discover our resort.”

Nice 09: As depicted by its name, this 9-hole course is nice & family friendly. Everyone will enjoy it!

The Dutch 27: Designed by Tom Lehman, this recently renovated course offers three unique 18-hole combinations, providing players with the perfect blend of natural beauty and strategic layouts.

For more information about Madden’s on Gull Lake, including its hospitality options, visit maddens.com.