News Summary
Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd, Minnesota, celebrates the completion of a multi-year renovation of the Dutch Red course, designed by Tom Lehman. Featuring enhanced playability for golfers, the course opens all 45 holes for both guests and the public. Improvements include newly constructed bunkers, redesigned greens, and increased scenic views. The resort prepares for the upcoming CRMC Championship, showcasing its commitment to enhancing golfing experiences while maintaining community ties.
Brainerd, Minnesota – The multi-year renovation at Cragun’s Resort, Golf and Conference is officially completed, marking the introduction of the newly revamped Dutch Red course, designed by renowned PGA TOUR Champions player and course architect Tom Lehman. This significant development means that all 45 holes at the resort are now open for play, catering to both resort guests and the general public.
The renovation focused on enhancing the playability and enjoyment of the Dutch Red course for golfers of varying skill levels. Among the major improvements are newly constructed striking bunkering, the redesign of four greens, and refreshed green surrounds, all aimed at providing an elevated golfing experience. Notably, while the course routing remains unchanged, critical reshaping and clearing work have heightened the scenic views throughout the course.
Particular emphasis was placed on enhancing holes #3 and #4. The restructured hole #3 now features a nearly doubled fairway landing area, with the green moved back by 50 yards and a soft chipping area created around it. Meanwhile, hole #4, transformed into a drivable par 4, utilized relocated bunkers and cart paths to improve playability.
The grand opening ceremony was attended by representatives from the resort’s new owners, Leisure Hotels & Resorts, along with various media representatives. This momentous occasion signifies the dawn of a new chapter for golfing in the Upper Midwest.
In addition to the unveiling of the renovated course, Cragun’s Resort is preparing to host the CRMC Championship from August 28-31. This prestigious event will spotlight the refreshed layouts of both the Red and White courses. Previous champions of this tournament include notable names such as Jake Knapp (2022), Yi Cao (2023), and Frederik Kjettrup (2024).
Established in 1940, Cragun’s Resort has long been a vital part of the Brainerd Lakes community, drawing thousands of tourists annually. The resort was recently sold to Baxter-based Leisure Hotels & Resorts, marking what is considered the largest resort transaction in Minnesota history. Despite the ownership change, the existing staff and leadership team will remain intact, ensuring continuity in operations and preserving the resort’s esteemed legacy.
The new ownership is committed to further investing in the Cragun’s facility, aiming for enhancements throughout 2025 to boost offerings and improve guest experiences. The resort currently boasts 206 lodge-style rooms, 55 cabins, and seven homes, alongside multiple dining options and extensive golf facilities.
With a workforce of over 400 employees, Cragun’s Resort also features ample meeting space for hosting events and conferences. Originally a family-run operation that began with humble beginnings, Cragun’s has grown into one of Minnesota’s largest resorts, showcasing a considerable $25 million remodel and expansion completed in 2015.
As the new renovations unfold, the combined efforts and investment undertaken by the current owners highlight a strong commitment to enhancing the overall golfing experience while maintaining the vital sense of community and history that Cragun’s Resort represents in the Brainerd Lakes area.
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Additional Resources
- The Golf Wire: Cragun’s Resort Completes Total Course Renovation
- Brainerd Dispatch: Sale of Cragun’s Resort to Leisure Hotels and Resorts Finalized
- Star Tribune: Cragun’s Resort Sold to Local Hospitality Company
- Twin Cities Business: After Sale of Cragun’s Resort, What’s Next for Minnesota Tourism?
- Bring Me The News: Sale of Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake Finalized
- Wikipedia: Cragun’s Resort
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