Hole 12 at Hazeltine National Golf Club
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 518 yds
- Stroke index
- 0
- Hazards
- 4 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 28 yds deep × 33 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 4 · 518 yards
The plan for No. 12
The 12th hole at Hazeltine National Golf Club stands as one of the course's most demanding tests, requiring precise execution over its lengthy par-4 layout. This challenging hole has witnessed countless championship moments and continues to separate the field during major competitions. With no room for error, it demands both power and accuracy from tee to green.
Off the tee
The tee shot strategy centers on finding the optimal position in the fairway to set up the best approach angle. Given the 518-yard length, most players will need driver to have any realistic chance of reaching the green in regulation. Focus on the center-left portion of the fairway as your target line, as this typically provides the best angle into small greens. Avoid the temptation to overswing - a solid, controlled drive that finds the fairway is far more valuable than extra distance in the rough.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot will likely be a long iron or hybrid for most golfers, making club selection critical. With a small green as your target, precision trumps power on this shot. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position - the small target makes aggressive pin-hunting extremely risky. Take one extra club and make a smooth, controlled swing rather than forcing a shot. If the pin is tucked near an edge, the smart play is to aim away from trouble and accept a longer putt.
On the green
The small green size means putting strategy becomes crucial for scoring. Focus on lag putting to avoid three-putts, as the compact surface can create tricky slopes and breaks. When reading putts, pay special attention to the overall slope of the green, as subtle breaks can be magnified on smaller surfaces. Conservative putting that ensures two-putts will serve you well on this challenging hole.
Watch for
- Water along the hole
- Fairway bunker crossing the landing zone
- Greenside bunker (greenside)
Hole 12 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,530 sq ft
How did Hole 12 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 518 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 518-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 12?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 4, water in play, heavily bunkered.
How big is the green on hole 12?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
What's a good score on hole 12?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes where par feels like birdie. A challenging par 4. Accept that bogey happens and avoid big numbers.