Doon Brae at The Highlands is a unique nine-hole, par-3 short course designed by Michigan architect Ray Hearn and built into the hillside directly behind The Highlands Main Lodge. Opened in 2025, the walking-only course is routed across terrain that doubles as a ski slope in winter, creating a fun mix of downhill, uphill, flat, and sidehill shots with multiple playing angles on each hole.

Inspired by classic golf architecture from the British Isles, Doon Brae features creative green complexes influenced by famous templates such as the Redan, Biarritz, Punch Bowl, Postage Stamp, and Eden. The holes are intentionally short and approachable, making the course fun for golfers of all abilities while still offering plenty of strategy and creativity for experienced players.

Adding to the experience, Doon Brae is lighted for evening play. Its relaxed atmosphere, distinctive hillside setting, and quick-play format make it a perfect bonus round after a day on The Highlands’ championship courses—and one of the most unique golf experiences on a northern Michigan trip.