History in
the making.
Treetops – 70 years of ski, golf, and adventure.
The history of Treetops starts with the granddaddy of Gaylord downhill skiing, Ouelette ”Lin” Meade. Lin opened the Sylvan Knob Ski Area in 1954, sporting two tow ropes and six slopes.
From ski hills to golf courses.
The first lift tickets were sold a year later in 1955 for $3.00 a day or $5.25 for a weekend pass. After returning home from WWII, Al Wieland and his wife, Tanya, headed up to the ski school. Al traded his fatigues for skis and earned a professional ski instructor certificate. The new ski run Treetops carved out in 2006 was named "Al's Bypass," as an ode to Mr. Wieland. In 1982, Mr. Wieland left, leaving Sylvan Knob in the care of physician and ski instructor extraordinaire, Dr. Michael Samalik.
Meade eventually sold Sylvan Nob in 1983 to auto parts mogul Harry Melling of Melling Tool Company, who had a grand vision — a ski resort. After expanding the now-resort with the 40-room Sylvan Inn, Haus Lounge, 140 lodging rooms, and more, Melling expanded on his original vision. He hired renowned golf course architect, Robert Trent Jones Sr., to design and conceive the first course on the property.
What's in a name?
On his first visit, Jones Sr. toured the property with Melling, stopping on a plateau overlooking the Pigeon River Valley for what is now the sixth tee of the Masterpiece Course. Noting the acres of trees below them extending to the horizon, they had the idea to name Sylvan Nob something more fitting: Treetops Resort.
Treetops continues to be recognized on both a regional and national level. Treetops made its mark as the host of ESPN's Par-3 Shootout in 2001. Lee Trevino took the trophy for the inaugural event, one million dollars, and bragging rights.
The resort went from a 179-acre blip on the radar to a 3,300-acre destination that hosts our five championship-level courses. Amidst its growth, Treetops Resort retains an undeniable charm and has become a bustling year-round resort.
Beautiful views, warm and welcoming atmosphere, what more could you ask for?
Booking your stay
A room is waiting for you at Treetops, the destination for spectacular golf and your basecamp for Northern Michigan adventures. Explore our accommodation options and make your reservation.
Sweet package deals
A Treetops Resort getaway is even more enticing when it comes at a great price. We offer package savings for golf getaways, spa retreats, couples' weekends, and more.
Booking your stay
A room is waiting for you at Treetops, the destination for spectacular golf and your basecamp for Northern Michigan adventures. Explore our accommodation options and make your reservation.
Sweet package deals
A Treetops Resort getaway is even more enticing when it comes at a great price. We offer package savings for golf getaways, spa retreats, couples' weekends, and more.
