Hole 18 at Edgewood Tahoe G.C.
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 572 yds
- Stroke index
- 14
- Hazards
- 8 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 43 yds deep × 37 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Pro tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Pro tees · Par 5 · 572 yards
The plan for No. 18
The magnificent finishing hole at Edgewood Tahoe G.C. hole 18 provides a spectacular crescendo to one of America's most scenic rounds. This 572-yard par 5 stretches along the pristine shores of Lake Tahoe, with the historic clubhouse serving as a dramatic backdrop behind the green. The straight layout offers multiple strategic options, from aggressive players attempting to reach the small green in two shots to those laying up for a comfortable wedge approach. With the Sierra Nevada mountains framing the fairway and crystal-clear lake waters glistening beyond, this finishing hole delivers both visual splendor and strategic intrigue. The intimate green demands precision on the final approach shot, making every round at this legendary venue conclude with both challenge and breathtaking beauty that has captivated legends like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.
Off the tee
Your opening shot should focus on finding the center of the fairway to maximize your options for the remainder of the hole. Driver is typically the right choice here, as the straight layout allows you to take advantage of the full width of the landing zone. Aim for the middle of the fairway, avoiding any tendency to overcook shots toward either side. The relatively open nature of this hole means you can be aggressive off the tee, but maintain control to ensure you're playing from the short grass.
Approach & recovery
The approach strategy depends heavily on whether you're going for the green in two or laying up for a wedge third shot. For longer hitters, the decision to go for it should factor in pin position and your confidence level with long irons or fairway woods into the small target. If laying up, position your second shot to leave a comfortable wedge distance - ideally around 100 yards or less to give yourself the best chance at the small green. The straight hole design means you can attack from the center of the fairway without worrying about awkward angles.
On the green
The small green size makes this the most demanding part of the hole, requiring precise distance control and careful read of the putting surface. With limited real estate to work with, approach shots that miss the green often leave challenging up-and-down opportunities. Focus on hitting the center of the green rather than attacking pins, especially on your first visit to this hole. The putting surface likely has subtle breaks that become more apparent as you gain experience with the green's characteristics. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole presents a classic risk/reward scenario for players capable of reaching in two. The reward is significant - an eagle opportunity or easy birdie - but the small green makes the risk substantial. Players should honestly assess their long iron or fairway wood accuracy before attempting to go for it. The safer play of laying up typically leaves a straightforward scoring opportunity with a short iron approach, making birdie very achievable while virtually eliminating big numbers. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-handicap players** should view this as a three-shot hole and focus on steady advancement toward the green. Use the generous fairway width to your advantage, prioritizing accuracy over distance. Lay up to your most comfortable wedge distance for the third shot. **Low-handicap players** can be more aggressive, potentially going for the green in two when conditions and confidence levels align. However, even skilled players should respect the small green and consider the pin position before making the decision to attack. The scoring opportunity remains excellent with a lay-up approach, so don't force a risky shot if the situation doesn't warrant it. The 18th at Edgewood Tahoe rewards smart golf strategy and precise execution, providing a fitting finale to one of golf's most scenic venues where legends like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson have showcased their skills.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 18 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 6,841 sq ft
How did Hole 18 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 572 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 572 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 18?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, water in play, heavily bunkered.
How big is the green on hole 18?
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The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.
What's a good score on hole 18?
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This hole is a true three-shot hole where birdie requires execution. This longer par 5 demands patience. Two good shots set up the scoring opportunity.