Hole 17 at Mountain Ridge Country Club
Par 5 • 562 Yards • Caldwell, New Jersey
The 17th hole at Mountain Ridge Country Club exemplifies Donald Ross's masterful design philosophy, presenting golfers with a demanding par-5 that climbs dramatically toward the elevated clubhouse. This classic Ross layout challenges players with strategic decision-making and features the architect's signature green complex with severe slopes that test precision on the approach.
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Hole Stats
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 562 yds
- Green
- 7049 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 4
- Course Slope
- 140
- Course Rating
- 74.8
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Recommended Gear
A dependable fairway wood can turn this par 5 into a real birdie chance.
Shop Fairway Woods →Strategy Tips
This Donald Ross par-5 demands precision off the tee to reach the ideal landing zone. The fairway widens from 36 yards at 200 yards to 42 yards at 250 yards, so longer hitters can take advantage of the extra width by carrying their drive past the 200-yard mark.
Three greenside bunkers positioned at 517, 530, and 537 yards create a challenging approach zone. Plan your second shot to leave a comfortable third shot distance that avoids these hazards, especially the bunker at 517 yards which guards the front approach.
At 562 yards, this hole is reachable in two for long hitters, but the risk-reward calculation must account for the bunker complex. Consider laying up to your favorite wedge distance rather than forcing a risky long iron or hybrid into the green.
The generous green measuring 31 yards by 41 yards (7,049 square feet) offers multiple pin positions and recovery options. This large target rewards aggressive play, but be aware that Donald Ross greens often feature subtle slopes that can complicate putting.
The bunker at 530 yards sits directly in the approach zone for most players attempting to reach in two. If going for the green, ensure you have enough club to clear this central hazard, or play conservatively to the right side of the fairway for a better angle.
This 562-yard par 5 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 & simulatorsScoring on par 5s starts with a smart second shot. Laying up to your favorite wedge distance gives you the best birdie chance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
At 562 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 17?
This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, heavily bunkered, large green requiring good lag putting.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 17?
Key hazards include: 3 greenside bunkers. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 17?
The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.
What's a good score on hole 17?
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.
Can I practice hole 17 on a golf simulator at home?
Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Mountain Ridge Country Club. You can play this exact par 5 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 Mountain Ridge Country 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
- 5
- Yardage
- 562 yds
- Green
- 7049 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 4
- Course Slope
- 140
- Course Rating
- 74.8
Navigate
Recommended Gear
A dependable fairway wood can turn this par 5 into a real birdie chance.
Shop Fairway Woods →Get the Free Strategy Guide
All Mountain Ridge Country Club holes — tips, yardages, and pro strategies delivered to your inbox.