The journey to Merrimac is part of the reward, you'll experience some of the best countryside in Wisconsin. If you are traveling from the south on Highway 113 you'll get a free ferry ride across Lake Wisconsin too. Upon arrival at the resort you'll want to stop at the main hotel entrance. Check in at the pro shop before driving down to the starter building. Golf carts are not allowed in the parking lots so drop your bag at the stand near the starter building before parking.

Once you tee off you won't get near the start until you're thru 16 holes. There is a full bathroom at the turn but you're at one with nature for most of your round. Daily cart service is provided. The signage is abundant and will reassure you that the fifth tee really is that far from the fourth green. After your round there are a number of food options at the resort.

The scorecard can give a false sense of security as the Glacier is just 6,057 yards from the men's white tees and a manageable 6,773 yards from the tips but it plays longer because of the terrain. The golf director noted that you don't need your driver off the tee much on this course, but you must keep it in the fairway. Easier said than done. The greens have plenty of contour to them and aggressive putts will be aggressively punished.

The signature par-5 eighth hole is a hard dog-leg left that plays severely downhill. The green can be reached in two with a well-placed drive with a fairway wood or long iron. Club selection is key to your second shot. It's hard to judge distance with 20 miles of woods and farmland in the background. Better to be short than long.

If the devil is in the details then you might be turned off by the course conditions. Some greens were under serious repair and a few fairways were close to unplayable. Still, if you are in good company in this tranquil, scenic setting it's a good golf experience.

Latest Update: 5/3/2012