Hole 12 at Hazeltine National Golf Club

Par 4518 Yards • Chaska, Minnesota

Enhanced Content
Brutal

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.

Tees:
518y445y420y374y367y
Green:35y × 28y
Fairway @250y:53y wide
4 BunkersWater dogleg

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Hole Stats

Par
4
Yardage
518 yds
Green
5530 sq ft
Bunkers
4
Water
Yes
Course Slope
155
Course Rating
78

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Strategy Tips

tee shot

This lengthy 518-yard par 4 demands accuracy over distance off the tee. Target the center-left portion of the fairway, which widens to 53 yards at the 250-yard mark, giving longer hitters more room to work with while avoiding the lake that runs along the right side.

hazard warning

Be aware of the bunker complex positioned at 302-329 yards from the tee. These hazards sit in prime landing areas for aggressive tee shots, so consider laying back with a 3-wood or hybrid to stay short of trouble while still leaving a manageable approach.

approach

The approach shot to this signature hole requires precision to a relatively small green measuring just 5,530 square feet. With Hazeltine Lake creating constant tension along the right edge, favor the left side of the green and focus on distance control rather than going for tight pin positions.

green

The green's compact dimensions of 35 by 28 yards make club selection critical on your approach. With water right and the famous Payne Stewart Bridge as a backdrop, this is a hole where conservative play often yields better results than aggressive pin-hunting.

approach

There's a greenside bunker positioned at 487 yards, meaning your approach shot needs to carry this hazard to reach the putting surface. Factor this into your club selection, especially when the pin is tucked behind this front bunker.

train this shot at home

This 518-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.

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Scoring Tip

When water is in play, commit to a conservative target. A bogey beats a big number every time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best strategy off the tee?

For this 518-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.

How difficult is hole 12?

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.

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 12?

Key hazards include: 2 greenside bunkers; water at 424.2 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 12?

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?

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.

Can I practice hole 12 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Hazeltine National Golf Club. You can play this exact 518-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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