News Summary
Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd, Minnesota has completed a significant multi-year renovation of its golf courses, introducing the new nine-hole layout, Dutch Red. The renovations enhance playability and aesthetics, while all 45 holes are now accessible to guests and the public. The project was overseen by PGA TOUR Champions player Tom Lehman and aims to offer golfers an improved experience. With the upcoming CRMC Championship, the resort continues to solidify its reputation as a premier golfing destination.
Brainerd, Minnesota—Cragun’s Resort Completes Major Golf Course Renovation
Cragun’s Resort, one of Minnesota’s prominent golf and leisure destinations, has announced the completion of its extensive multi-year golf course renovation. Located in Brainerd, the resort’s updated layout features a newly unveiled nine-hole course named Dutch Red, along with improvements to the existing course infrastructure. All 45 holes across the resort are now open for both guests and the general public, offering a revitalized experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Renovation Highlights and Key Design Changes
The renovation of Dutch Red was guided by noted PGA TOUR Champions player and course architect Tom Lehman. Its design aims to improve playability and enjoyment while preserving the course’s natural scenic beauty. The course routing itself remains unchanged; however, significant reshaping and clearing have been carried out to enhance views and aesthetics.
Major improvements include new bunkering designs, four redesigned greens, and updated green surrounds. These enhancements are intended to provide a better challenge for experienced players and easier play for novices. Specific changes to notable holes include:
- Hole #3: The fairway landing area has been nearly doubled, allowing for increased flexibility in shot placement. The green has been repositioned 50 yards back, with a soft chipping area surrounding it to facilitate approach shots.
- Hole #4: Transitioned into a drivable par 4, the hole’s bunkers and cart path have been relocated to make it more accessible and strategically interesting.
Opening Ceremony and Community Reception
The final nine holes, Dutch Red, were officially unveiled during a ceremonial event attended by representatives of Leisure Hotels & Resorts, the resort’s new owners, along with media personnel. The event marked a significant milestone, signaling the start of a new chapter in the resort’s history, especially in the context of regional golfing prominence.
Upcoming Events and Local Significance
Cragun’s Resort is set to host the CRMC Championship from August 28-31. This professional event will showcase the renovated courses, specifically the Red and White layouts, attracting competitive players from around the country. Past winners of the championship include notable golfers such as Jake Knapp, Yi Cao, and Frederik Kjettrup.
Resort Background and Future Plans
Established in 1940, Cragun’s Resort has become a staple in the Brainerd Lakes community, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The family-run operation expanded significantly in 2015 with a $25 million remodel and expansion, adding lodge-style rooms, cabins, homes, and numerous amenities.
The resort was recently sold to Leisure Hotels & Resorts, a Baxter-based company, in what is the largest resort transaction in Minnesota’s history. Despite the change in ownership, there will be no immediate changes to staff or leadership to ensure continuity. The new owners plan to invest further into the property throughout 2025 to enhance guest services and recreational offerings.
Resort Facilities and Community Role
Cragun’s encompasses 206 lodge-style rooms, 55 cabins, and seven homes, along with diverse dining options, extensive meeting and event space, and of course, its renowned golf courses. The resort employs more than 400 staff members, contributing to its sustained role as a major employer and community hub in the region.
Conclusion
The completed renovation not only upgrades the golf courses but also signifies a renewed focus on quality experiences for visitors. With new course features, ongoing investments, and prominent regional events, Cragun’s Resort continues to uphold its reputation as a key destination in Minnesota’s Upper Midwest.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Rolling Pines LLC Expands Golf Portfolio in North Carolina
The Prestige of Royal Golf Courses Worldwide
Additional Resources
- The Golf Wire: Cragun’s Resort Completes Total Course Renovation
- Brainerd Dispatch: Sale of Cragun’s Resort to Leisure Hotels and Resorts Finalized
- Star Tribune: Cragun’s Resort Sold to Local Hospitality Company
- Twin Cities Business: After Sale of Cragun’s Resort, What’s Next for Minnesota Tourism?
- Bring Me The News: Sale of Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake Finalized
- Wikipedia: Cragun’s Resort
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
