Blackwolf Run (River)

Whistling Straits with its two miles of frontage along Lake Michigan captures the eye but this inland Dye course has nearly as many ardent supporters. Built a decade before Whistling, the River course occupies one of the best wooded parcels that Dye was ever given. Scenic hills, a meandering creek and an owner who devoted it all to golf paved the way for Dye to create one of his most challenging tests. Among the highlights: angled greens set on plateaus (such as No. 5), short par-4s that infuriate (No. 9) and risk-reward par-5s (No. 16). Most exasperating of all for players who hit a fade might be the one-shot 13th, which plays over a bend in the river with trees uncomfortably hanging out from the left. If there is such a thing as an underrated Dye course, this is it. Max fee: $330 (Photo: Courtesy Kohler Co.)