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By HOWIE HANSON
Editor & Publisher
Perched high above the hillside with commanding views of Duluth’s harbor and the sweeping expanse of Lake Superior, Enger Park Golf Course remains one of the city’s most beloved recreational treasures. Nearly a century since golfers first teed it up on this historic property, the course is enjoying what many longtime players believe is its finest era yet — thanks to smart improvements, meticulous care and strong day-to-day leadership.
Originally opened in 1927 near the landmark Enger Park Tower — a gift from Norwegian immigrant Bert Enger meant to secure green space for the public — the course has evolved into a 27-hole facility that blends classic parkland, links and traditional layouts across three distinct nines: the Skyline 9, Bridge 9 and Tower 9.
Each stretches between roughly 3,100 and 3,400 yards and plays to a par of 36, winding through mature woods, around peaceful ponds and past thoughtfully placed bunkers. Four sets of tees ensure golfers of every skill level can enjoy a fair test.
Best condition in memory, under outstanding leadership
Enger Park is arguably in the best playing shape of its long history. Fairways are lush, greens are quick and true, and hazards are carefully maintained under the watchful eye of the course’s dedicated grounds team. New bridges gracefully span restored cold-water trout streams, enhancing both scenery and playability. Subtle routing tweaks have kept the layout fresh, offering new challenges even for seasoned regulars.
Much of the credit belongs to Craig Smith, Enger Park’s general manager, who has brought steady leadership and a clear customer-first philosophy to daily operations.
Smith, well known in Duluth sports circles from his years as general manager of the Duluth Huskies baseball club, has earned high marks from local golfers for his genuine approach, attention to detail and commitment to creating a welcoming experience. Under his watch, the clubhouse and pro shop run like clockwork, pace of play is well managed and staff greet players with the kind of warm, authentic service that keeps people coming back.
“Craig really understands how to make people feel valued,” one longtime Enger golfer said recently. “It’s a big reason the whole course feels so positive right now. From check-in to the 18th green, you can tell the operation is built around strong leadership and taking care of people.”
A smart focus by the City of Duluth
Enger Park is owned by the City of Duluth, which also owns the Lester Park Golf Course in East Duluth. However, Lester Park was temporarily closed in recent years due to costly maintenance challenges and financial strain. While many still miss Lester’s dramatic front-nine views of Lake Superior, it remains my strong opinion that it makes far more sense for the city to focus resources on maintaining a single, sensational public golf course at Enger.
Doing so ensures Duluth continues to offer a premier municipal golf experience that complements the city’s respected private options — Northland Country Club and Ridgeview Country Club. Meanwhile, recreational players seeking a more casual outing can find quality nine-hole options at Pike Lake and Proctor.
A thriving hub for leagues, juniors and families
Enger Park remains a vital hub for local golf leagues that build community spirit throughout the season. The popular Enger Park ZCMC Sunset League runs on Monday or Tuesday nights through August 29, welcoming teams of four to ten players for roughly 17 to 19 weekend events.
Enger also proudly hosts leagues for women and seniors and encourages anyone hoping to join or form a league to get involved. Regardless of age or skill, players can expect a warm welcome and a supportive community.
Meanwhile, Enger’s partnership with First Tee - Minnesota Junior Golf continues to shine. The program is designed for young golfers, blending swing instruction, course etiquette and life lessons from the First Tee curriculum in a beginner-friendly, fun environment.
First Tee Class Schedule
· Player Level (Ages 6-9): 9-10:15 a.m.
· Par Level (Ages 10-12): 10:30-11:45 a.m.
· Birdie/Eagle Level (Ages 13+): 12-1:15 p.m.
Classes run Mondays and Wednesdays, July 7-23. Much of this program is led by Sam Mesadahl, a PGA Associate and Level 1 First Tee Coach, along with longtime instructor Deb Showalter, who’s especially respected among Enger’s many female players.
A Duluth gem better than ever
When you pull it all together — the outstanding leadership from Smith and his team, the course’s best-ever conditions, the thriving league and youth programs, and Duluth’s smart focus on building a single sensational municipal golf experience — it’s clear why Enger Park continues to stand out.
As someone who has walked these fairways countless times, I can say without hesitation: Enger isn’t just the same public course we remember. In many meaningful ways, it’s better than ever.
