New is good. Different is good. Fun is good. Challenge is good. Hole-in-ones are beyond good. The newest addition to the Brainerd golf destination collection has embraced all these philosophies and wrapped them up into a tidy two-hour round of golf that over-delivers on all fronts. The Gravel Pit Golf Course is 13 holes (yes, 13) that promises to work your short-iron game over thoroughly while keeping a big smile locked in-place.

Looking to the renowned golf course design firm – Scott Hoffmann Golf, co-owners Chuck Klecatsky and Mark Dvorak have brought in the best in the business to transform this rugged slice of industrial earth into a visionary short-course design that creates an unparalleled golfing experience. No easy task for sure but Gravel Pit is now entering its second year of operation and is delighting customers from all corners of the state who make the trek to the greater Brainerd golf resort area. It’s another stellar option available to you on your daily travel itinerary. 

The course architecture features 13 classically designed holes, blanketed with stretches of fescue giving it a bit of that windswept, traditional links golf feel (albeit with all the comforts of a resort course, more on that later). With a handful of picturesque water features and a series of stunning looks you will find yourself immersed in the magic of the Hoffman design where green hills and valleys have replaced the rugged terrain of a former gravel pit. I recommend you give yourself over to the sensation and marvel at how all this is happening. 

The putting surfaces are dialed towards the tough level of the spectrum which is what you want when taking on short holes with precision wedge play. This is not an ‘all-you-can-eat’ type of round, its finesse, it’s surgical, and it’s trying to hit your spots under the pin and then visualizing the roll. Keep in mind all of this is done after you’ve put your craft beer securely on the apron and gripped the putter. The beer will still be there after you’ve sunk that 6-foot swinger of a putt.

The clubhouse has panoramic views overlooking all 13 holes with a full-service golf shop, bar, and restaurant. The handsome patio seating provides the perfect setting to dine while the sun sets over the course as you relax around the pergolas and fireplaces. Given these creature comforts situated in the middle of an ex-gravel pit is like having an adult playground with table service, splendid views and a cold refreshment. 

I’m an avid golfer who logs in a decent number of rounds each year, but I’ve never jarred the holy grail of golf – the Ace. Now given that the par 3-hole yardages range from 76 yards to 213 yards this course offers me 13 straight chances to buy everyone in the clubhouse a drink. I think the odds are still very much uphill on that battle but what the heck they have to be a little better, right? My credit card is ready and willing.

Scott, Chuck and Mark have worked in plenty of obstacles to make that hole-in-one a real challenge. You will find numerous elevation changes, tiered greens, obstructed views, strategically placed trees, bunkers, and a water feature that comes into play on a handful of holes, all tucked into an 1,873 yard length (from the back tees). Do the math and you can see we are talking about a little more than 130 yards per hole. The forward tees play at just over 1,200 yards. A sand wedge, gap wedge, pitching wedge, 9-iron and 5-iron might get it done. Oh, don’t forget the putter.

The course is located right in the heart of golf country just north of Cragun’s at 17300 Gull River Rd, Brainerd, MN 56401. A week in golf and fishing country can offer opportunities to get out and about. Sometimes that means a full day, sometimes it means a couple hours. That’s where The Gravel Pit comes in and offers another shorter time-slot option. 

The Gravel Pit is set-up to be a fun gathering spot for groups and will be available for weddings and events as time goes on. It’s not hard to imagine a group of friends sharing some smack talk and trading betting games while clubbing their way around the course within ear shot. With the clubhouse situated within view those outings are a full-on participation event. There are bocce ball courts which keeps the non-golfers competing for fun and games as well. In addition to the 13-hole par 3 course there is a 13 hole ‘extreme putting’ course. Again, more opportunities to hang out and enjoy the atmosphere. Chuck has seen a significant uptick in rounds starting the 2023 season and finds himself plenty busy keeping those smiles coming at The Gravel Pit.