What is The Tailings like?
The Tailings is one of 308 PDGA-listed courses in Michigan, and one of 1 in Iron River itself. It plays 18 holes, par 54, across 4,428 ft — an average of about 246 feet a hole. That is a comfortable middle distance where fairway drivers do most of the work.
The terrain is mixed/varied — a mix of wooded and open holes, which puts the emphasis on a complete game. The variety is the test: you will need a tunnel shot on one hole and a full-power drive on the next, often back to back.
ThrowSpot rates the course demanding overall, making it experienced players who want a real challenge. Length, tight lines, and unforgiving misses mean newer players should expect a long round. Play the shorter tees if they exist. Most groups finish in about 110 minutes, though a busy weekend morning can add half an hour of waiting on the tee.
What discs should you bring to The Tailings?
For a course like this, a putter, two mid-ranges, and a couple of fairway drivers covers the majority of shots. The variety rewards a balanced bag over a specialist one. You will use almost everything you carry.
If you are not sure what matches your arm speed, the disc selector converts your throwing distance into a speed ceiling and specific mold recommendations. It is also worth reading the wind calculator before you play on a breezy day.
Cost and access
This course is free to play, like the majority of the 7,008 courses in the ThrowSpot directory. There is no booking system and no check-in — turn up and play. Most park courses are open dawn to dusk; hours can change seasonally, so it is worth checking locally before a very early or late round.
Amenities at The Tailings
Amenity information comes from PDGA course records and may not reflect recent changes. If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.
Getting to The Tailings
Iron River, MI — free parking is listed for this course.
Other disc golf courses near The Tailings
More disc golf near Iron River
The Tailings is the only PDGA-listed course in Iron River, but Michigan has 308 in total. See the nearby courses above, or browse every course in Michigan.
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is The Tailings?
The Tailings has 18 holes with a total par of 54. The course measures 4,428 ft, averaging about 246 feet per hole.
Is The Tailings free to play?
Yes. The Tailings is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is The Tailings good for beginners?
It is rated advanced difficulty, so newer players should expect a challenging round. Length, tight lines, and unforgiving misses mean newer players should expect a long round. Play the shorter tees if they exist.
How long does it take to play The Tailings?
About 110 minutes for a typical group on 18 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is The Tailings located?
The Tailings is in Iron River, Michigan, at coordinates 46.09119, -88.63624. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to The Tailings?
For this layout, a putter, two mid-ranges, and a couple of fairway drivers covers most shots. The variety rewards a balanced bag over a specialist one. You will use almost everything you carry.