The Classic at Madden’s Resort – Brainerd, MN

Course Details

• Architect: Scott Hoffman (1996)
• Course Type: Public, Resort
• Par: 72
• Yardage: 7,102
• Rating: 75.6
• Slope: 142

Course Accolades

• Golf Digest: #3 Best New Upscale Public Course (1997), #59 in Public USA & #10 in Minnesota
• Golf Magazine: #5 in Minnesota
• Golf Week: #102 Resort USA & #4 in Minnesota
• Golf World: Minnesota Course of Recognition
• Top100Courses: #14 in Minnesota
• Zagat: America’s Top Golf Courses (2012)

Course Score

• Course Conditions: 9
• Green Complexes: 9
• Amenities: 8
• Practice Facilities: 5
• Service: 8
• Course Design: 8
• Value: 7

Total Score: 7.81

Course Review

The Good: The most publicized and recognized course in the Brainerd area is the Classic at Madden’s resort, a unique, quirky design from its longtime Course Superintendent Scott Hoffman. Brilliantly conditioned and apparently has gotten much more fair over the years, it is a modern parkland routing that is very walkable for the “traditional” golfer. The greens are as large and sizable as any course I’ve played in the Midwest, as well as tremendously slick and undulating. Several fun, “risk/reward” Par 5’s (including the mesmerizing starting hole) and the best groupings of Par-3’s of all the Brainerd courses. Very nice clubhouse and accommodating staff, especially within their restaurant. On-course service is also excellent.

The Bad: Due to its nontraditional design story, there are some quirks that can be frustrating, particularly many hazards that are around greens with no secondary rough to project mishits. There are also several holes in which the line to the fairway or green is obstructed by high marsh bushes and vegetation. The course has tried to reduce trees but there are multiple Par 4’s (the 4th comes to mind) in which the landing area is nearly impossible due to tree overage. A little pricey at $160 peak season with forecaddie. No GPS on the carts & practice facilities are a little to be desired.

The Verdict: The Classic is an excellent upscale public option and the 2nd best course in the Brainerd area. A unique and enjoyable experience with top-notch service and clubhouse amenities.

Best Hole: The Par-4 11th is absolutely the stand out, but I liked the 10th even more. It’s a short Par-5 that even moderate hitters can go for it in two, but beware, its all carry and the green is a demon.