GreenlitBETA
Biwabik, Minnesota

The Quarry at Giants Ridge

Minnesota's #1 public course carved from an iron ore mining quarry—dramatic elevation changes meet world-class design on pristine bentgrass.

About the Course

Built on the site of a former iron ore and sand mining operation, The Quarry at Giants Ridge stands as a remarkable transformation of an industrial landscape into one of America's premier public golf courses. The dramatic terrain of the mining pit—with towering walls, deep hazards, and elevation changes exceeding 200 feet—creates a visually stunning and strategically demanding experience unlike traditional courses. Designed by Jeff Brauer and opened in 2003, The Quarry has been ranked in Golf Digest's top 20 public courses in the United States every year it has been eligible, and consistently places among the top 25-50 public courses nationally. The course's contrasting colors—from lush fairways to rough fescue and natural waste areas—combine with the surrounding Superior National Forest to create depth perception that enhances strategy and beauty. Playing at 7,201 yards with a rating of 75.6 and slope of 146, The Quarry challenges golfers with strategic bunkering, large undulating greens, and numerous forced carries that demand precision while rewarding aggressive play. The iconic 13th hole—a drivable par-4 with a 100-yard-wide green and three distinct routing options—was named by Golf Digest as the best 13th hole in America built since 2000.

Why It's Great for Groups
  • Ranked #1 public golf course in Minnesota by Golf Digest with consistent top-20 national rankings—a truly championship-caliber design that delivers value
  • Dramatic landscape created from reclaimed mining land offers unmatched visual impact and memorable elevation changes that make this course instantly recognizable
  • Exceptional on-property lodging and amenities including The Lodge (67 condo units, restaurants, spa, pool, hot tub) plus The Villas with lake views—stay exactly where you play
  • Perfect for group golf trips with 36-hole package options (both courses), dedicated group accommodations, Wacootah Grille clubhouse dining overlooking Lake Mine, and four-season recreation
  • All green fees include golf cart, range balls, and yardage books—transparency and value that makes planning easier for group travel
Courses on Property
The Quarry18 holes · Par 72

Championship course built on former mining site with dramatic elevation changes, large greens, and strategic bunker play.

The Legend18 holes · Par 72

Traditional parkland design carved from Superior National Forest, named one of the 10 Best New Upscale Public Courses in America.

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Key Details
💰
Green Fees
$96–$130/person est.
🚶
Walking Friendly
Cart recommended
🎒
Caddies Available
No
📅
Best Time to Visit
May through September, with peak season May 30 to August 24 when weather is ideal and the course is fully open. Early season (May 2-29) and fall (August 25-September 28) offer lower rates and fewer crowds. Avoid late season (September 29 onward) as weather becomes unpredictable. Summer months provide long daylight and comfortable temperatures for morning rounds, while late August and early September bring slightly cooler weather but can have morning frost.
ParklandChampionshipHidden GemValue PlayResortBucket ListCart RequiredOff the Beaten PathLinks
Stay on Property
The Lodge at Giants Ridge features 67 condo-style units with 1-4 bedrooms, each with kitchenette, living room, and fireplace. On-site amenities include indoor pool and hot tub, Neighbor's BBQ Co. restaurant and bar, full-service salon spa, arcade, and event spaces. The Villas at Giants Ridge offer cabin-feel properties with lake views overlooking Wynne Lake and Sabin Lake, providing fishing and water sports access. Both properties are located within the recreation area hub, steps from the golf courses.

The Lodge at Giants Ridge features 67 condo-style units with 1-4 bedrooms, each with kitchenette, living room, and fireplace. On-site amenities include indoor pool and hot tub, Neighbor's BBQ Co. restaurant and bar, full-service salon spa, arcade, and event spaces. The Villas at Giants Ridge offer cabin-feel properties with lake views overlooking Wynne Lake and Sabin Lake, providing fishing and water sports access. Both properties are located within the recreation area hub, steps from the golf courses.

Nearby Lodging