Golf Macomb: Hickory Hollow Golf Club

Since 1963, , located on North Avenue between 21 and 23 Mile roads, has been a haven for local golfers.

The challenging layout, coupled with the friendly staff in both the pro shop and grill, have made the Macomb Township destination a favorite for decades.

Although it might lack some of the amenities many more current courses have, such as bent-grass fairways, Hickory Hollow has plenty to offer the weekend hacker and the more accomplished player.

With three sets of tee boxes, the course can accommodate all skill levels. The course plays roughly 6,400 yards from the back set of tees and about 5,000 from the forward tees, making it a great option for women.

However, the length isn't what makes Hickory Hollow notable–it's the layout of the course.

Played from the back tees, I used nearly every club in my bag getting around this track.

Many holes, such as No. 10 (a challenging par 5) gives longer players a choice following a good drive as to whether or not to give it a go at the green or lay up on the second shot. Hole No. 2 also presents a similar challenge to big hitters.

Mixed in the layout is a nice variety of par-3 holes as well. Hole No. 9 (179 yards from the back tees) could have players hitting anything from a 6-iron to a 3-wood, depending on the wind. And No. 14, at 182 yards, can present a similar challenge to golfers.

My personal favorite, however, is the short (270 yards from the back tees) par-4 12th hole. Admittedly, it's not the toughest hole on the golf course, but it's a hole that gives golfers a lot of options and a lot to think about, which is something I find appealing in a golf hole.

The decision on 12, for example, is whether to lay up off the tee with an iron or try to hit a driver into a very small landing area in front of the green. There's a risk-reward aspect to this and other holes at Hickory Hollow, which might explain why the course has remained so popular with players for so many years.

Also, Hickory Hollow is a wonderful course to walk while playing. The tee boxes aren't terribly far from the previous green and if you're someone like me who enjoys walking while playing, then this is another reason to check out Hickory Hollow.

The rates are reasonable, ranging from $29-$34 for 18 holes and a cart, depending on the day of the week. Senior and twilight rates are also available.