Pros 
Cons A Hole-in-One for Hospitality…and a Few Bumps in the Green
Alpine Mountain Golf in Birch Run, Michigan, consistently earns a 4.0 rating, but digging into recent reviews reveals a more nuanced picture. While praised for its friendly staff and willingness to accommodate late arrivals – one reviewer even awarding a five-star rating solely on service and effort – the physical state of the course itself is a common point of concern. It's clear that Alpine Mountain Golf prioritizes a welcoming atmosphere, happily letting patrons begin a game close to closing time. This dedication to customer service is a major draw for families looking for casual fun.
The course offers two distinct experiences: a skill course designed for a challenge, and an amateur course geared towards simpler play. One visitor noted the amateur course provides “lots of straight shots allowing for lots of hole-in-one chances,” making it ideal for beginners or those seeking a relaxed game. Beyond the mini golf, the venue also features a go-cart track, though reports suggest it can be intermittently closed for maintenance.
Here’s a quick overview of the facilities:
| Feature | Status |
|---|---|
| Onsite Services | Available |
| Wheelchair Access | Yes |
| Restaurant | No |
| Family-Friendly | Yes |
| Debit Cards | Accepted |
| Credit Cards | Not Accepted |
| Good for Kids | Yes |
The State of the Greens: A Call for Repair
Unfortunately, the positive experiences are often tempered by criticisms regarding the course’s condition. Multiple reviewers describe Alpine Mountain Golf as “run down,” with visible signs of wear and tear. Concerns include:
- Damaged Greens: Several guests detail significant damage, including “massive holes” (some up to a foot in length!), potentially moldy surfaces, and sections appearing to sink into the water. These issues directly impact gameplay and detract from the overall experience.
- General Disrepair: Loose bricks, torn fake grass, and a lack of shade trees contribute to the perception of neglect. One reviewer pointedly suggested the owner redirect funds from personal use towards necessary repairs.
- Potential Hazards: A particularly concerning report warns of ground hornets near hole 12, raising safety issues for golfers.
For a course charging $8 per person, the consensus seems to be that more investment is needed to maintain a playable and appealing environment.
Staff Interactions: From Delightful to Disappointing
The staff at Alpine Mountain Golf seems to be a real mixed bag, with experiences ranging from exceptionally friendly to outright hostile. Numerous reviews highlight the positive interactions – staff described as “top notch” and “nicer people” who create a welcoming experience. This exceptional service is consistently mentioned as a high point.
However, a severely negative encounter was reported by a family who were wrongly accused of trespassing while seeking parking after being directed to the location by a neighboring zoo employee. A staff member allegedly yelled at the patrons, refusing to allow them to even inquire about playing mini golf. This incident casts a shadow over the otherwise positive feedback regarding staff courtesy.
"The staff was top notch. Couldn't find nicer people.” - A satisfied customer
It's clear that consistency in staff demeanor and adherence to basic customer service principles would significantly enhance the visitor experience.
Accessibility & Family Fun: A Good Option With Caveats
Despite the concerns regarding the course’s condition, Alpine Mountain Golf clearly caters to families and those with accessibility needs. It is designated as “family-friendly” and boasts both a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot. The presence of two courses offering varying levels of difficulty also allows families with diverse skill sets to enjoy the game together.
However, prospective visitors should be prepared for a potentially dated facility. While it provides a relatively inexpensive outing and, for some, a fun challenge, those seeking a pristine and well-maintained mini golf experience might be disappointed. They do accept debit cards for payment, but credit card users should prepare alternate forms of payment. Ultimately, Alpine Mountain Golf appears to be a place where warm hospitality attempts to compensate for a need for substantial infrastructural improvements..