Hole 13 at Valhalla Golf Club
Par 4 • 355 Yards • Louisville, Kentucky
The 13th hole at Valhalla, known as "The Island" or "Limestone Hole," stands as the course's signature par-4 featuring the famous island green perched atop limestone rocks. From one of the highest points on the property near the clubhouse, this dramatic hole has captivated players and spectators alike during major championships.
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Hole Stats
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 355 yds
- Green
- 4288 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 7
- Water
- Yes
- Course Slope
- 149
- Course Rating
- 76.5
Recommended Gear
Water's in play — a premium ball you trust helps you commit to the shot.
Shop Golf Balls →Strategy Tips
From one of the highest points on the course, this 355-yard par 4 requires precision over power. The fairway widens from 52 yards at 200 yards to 62 yards at 250 yards, so a controlled tee shot of 200-220 yards positions you perfectly for the approach while avoiding the bunkers clustered around 206-227 yards.
Three bunkers guard the landing zone between 206-227 yards from the tee. The bunkers at 206.5, 225.8, and 226.9 yards create a gauntlet that demands either laying up short of 200 yards or carrying past 230 yards - there's little margin for error in this critical yardage range.
The famous island green measures just 28 yards by 25 yards (4,288 sq ft), making it one of the smallest targets you'll face. From a layup position around 200 yards, you're left with a mid-iron to this postage-stamp green surrounded by limestone rocks and water - club selection and commitment are absolutely critical.
With the green measuring only 28 yards wide and 25 yards deep, there's virtually no room for error on your approach shot. The compact dimensions mean even a slightly mishit shot will find the rocks and water surrounding this signature island green - aim for the center and trust your yardage.
Consider the risk-reward carefully: while the fairway opens up to 62 yards wide at 250 yards, challenging the bunker complex with a longer drive leaves you with a shorter iron but from a more demanding angle to the tiny island green. Many players find success laying back to 200 yards for a more controlled approach.
This 355-yard par 4 is ideal for working on your driver accuracy. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.
See launch monitors & simulatorsWhen water is in play, commit to a conservative target. A bogey beats a big number every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best strategy off the tee?
For this 355-yard par 4, most players will hit 3-wood or driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 13?
This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: water in play, heavily bunkered, small green.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 13?
Key hazards include: water at 315.6 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 13?
The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
What's a good score on hole 13?
This hole is a medium-length test where par is a solid result. A straightforward par 4 where course management pays off.
Can I practice hole 13 on a golf simulator at home?
Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Valhalla Golf Club. You can play this exact 355-yard par 4 shot-by-shot at home. Entry-level options like the SkyTrak+ (around $2,500) and Garmin Approach R10 (around $600) support course play, while premium systems from Trackman and Foresight offer tour-level accuracy. Most systems pay for themselves in a season or two versus green fees and range balls. Shop home golf simulators →
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For course operators and clubs
Play This Course at Home
Practice Valhalla Golf Club Year-Round
Launch monitors from $600 and simulators from $2,500 include real course data. Play every hole without leaving home.
Browse Launch Monitors & SimulatorsAmazon · Top brands compared · Free returns on most items
We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
Hole Stats
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 355 yds
- Green
- 4288 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 7
- Water
- Yes
- Course Slope
- 149
- Course Rating
- 76.5
Recommended Gear
Water's in play — a premium ball you trust helps you commit to the shot.
Shop Golf Balls →Get the Free Strategy Guide
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