There’s something new growing in the valley near Sage Run—and it’s more than just grass.
As of this spring, Island Resort & Casino has officially begun shaping its third golf course, Cedar (Kishki). The decision to add another course came from one clear trend: demand.
“We’re actually adding a third course due to customer demand,” said Island GM Tony Mancilla. “We’re often booked up on Sweetgrass and Sage Run, especially in the mornings. Cedar gives guests more access to great golf—when they want it.”
✦ From Blueprint to Fairway
Leading the project is course architect Paul Albanese, the same mind behind both Sweetgrass and Sage Run. Despite a tough spring, the construction team has made fast progress:
“Our crew kicked it into high gear,” said Albanese. “We’ve got all the holes rough-shaped. Greens are shaped. One of the ponds is getting its liner now. We’re moving fast.”
The team is now installing drainage and prepping for irrigation—a key step in ensuring playability and durability.
✦ Built for Golfers, Inspired by History
Cedar Course will feature bent grass fairways, giving the course a smooth, high-end playing surface. But it’s not just about the turf—Albanese is bringing Golden Age golf design to the Upper Peninsula.
“These greens are all inspired by Golden Age architecture,” he explained. “Behind me, we’re shaping a version of Juniper—based on the sixth hole at Augusta.”
Each hole is thoughtfully designed to offer both strategic variety and a nod to the game’s history (more on that in this blog post about famous hole inspirations).
✦ What’s Next?
With drainage and irrigation underway, seeding is right around the corner. Once the bent grass takes hold, the course will begin to transform—visually and functionally.
The team’s goal: a nine-hole course that stands on its own, offering a full golf experience in under two hours and serving as a perfect complement to Island’s existing championship layouts.
Cedar Course is expected to open in time for the 2026 golf season, welcoming players with classic design, modern playability, and the unmistakable character of Island Resort.
Stay tuned for more updates as Cedar Course continues to take shape—and get ready for a golf experience that blends classic inspiration with modern playability.
