While hoisting a pint after a round of golf in Scotland, you may find yourself singing, “Ye take the high road, and I’ll take the low road.” After 18 holes at Mississippi National Golf Links in Red Wing it would be fitting to slightly alter the lyrics honoring Loch Lomond’s bonnie banks.

Whereas Scottish singers need to choose between high and low, golfers making the scenic drive to Red Wing can hedge their bet. You see, there are no bad decisions at Mississippi National Golf Links. Play the Lowlands, play the Highlands, or play both.

I’ll Take The Lowlands

Back in the 1980s, the City of Red Wing was home to one private golf course, the Red Wing Country Club. The city decided the time was right for a public course too, so Mississippi National Golf Course was born in 1986. The city tabbed the Wendell Pittenger management company to operate their fledgling 6,500-yard golf baby.

The Lowlands, Red Wing’s gift to the golfing public was wildly successful. Almost immediately the Pittenger group encouraged another nine holes on the elevated acreage set high above the Lowlands traditional parkland-style golf experience. The Red Wing golf industry was just getting warmed up.

I’ll Take The Highlands

No sooner had Mississippi National added another nine holes on what is currently numbers four through 12 on the current Highlands, something too good to ignore occurred. The golf boom of the 90s began taking off like a rocket. An outdoor wedding gazebo and a 300-person banquet room became part of Mississippi National’s colonial-style clubhouse and pro-shop.

The future seemed so bright golfers needed to wear shades. In 1999, an additional nine holes were added. Now Mississippi National offered a double-your-pleasure golf combo. Complimenting the Lowlands was the 6,200 yard Highlands Golf Course of today. With Highland’s views showcasing Red Wing’s historic downtown to the north, and Lake Pepin to the south, golfers were offered tantalizing stay and play options. Ultimately, Mississippi National Golf Links became a convenient golf destination outpost.

Red Wing: Devoted To Golf

Since its opening 34 years ago, it’s safe to say that the city of Red Wing has taken Mississippi National under its wing. This devotion is evident everywhere you look at the Lowlands and the Highlands.

Each of the tee boxes at the Lowlands is sponsored by a Red Wing area business. Some of these sponsors find a way to tickle your golf funny bone. A sign on the Lowlands Par 4, 405-yard first hole reads, “Last time we saw 18 holes this tough, we put laces in them.” This inscription is signed by one of the hometown’s most famous businesses, Red Wing Shoes. Move on to the Lowlands Par 5, 540-yard, second hole and you’ll notice the USG manufacturing plant to your left. The sprawling second hole fairway you’re hoping to land your tee shot on was donated by this same manufacturer.

The Red Wing golf faithful stand tall in good times and in bad. When the golf economy took a turn for the worse in 2013, Red Wing’s golfing public stepped up in a big way. Mississippi National’s 100-plus members and a few anonymous donors ponied up significant dollars to keep the course going. Seven years later, in 2020, the Highlands and the Lowlands are enjoying one of their best years ever.

Feeling Good On The Bonnie Banks Of Red Wing

In 2014, Nathan Gale and Mississippi National Golf Links found each other. Gale not only was hired as Mississippi National’s Head Golf Professional, one year later he also became the high school’s Head Golf Coach. When asked what he’s most proud of when it comes to Mississippi National Golf Links history, Gale said he appreciated the two courses perseverance. “After our setback in 2013, we’re still alive and kicking. The success we’re experiencing in 2020 feels good,” Gale said.

For golfers looking to make the commute to scenic and historic Red Wing, Mississippi National Golf Links offers several specials to consider. Monday through Wednesday pay $32 for a golf and cart. There’s also a Day at the Links Special that’s $49, including lunch and a cart for 18 holes. For those looking to play 36 holes, the rate is $69 for golf, cart, range, and lunch.

So, you take the Highlands and I’ll take the Lowlands. After playing 18 or 36 holes, Mississippi National Golf Links promises you’ll love the bonnie banks of Red Wing.