Hole 13 at Pinehurst Resort #7
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 207 yds
- Stroke index
- 16
- Hazards
- 3 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 33 yds deep × 34 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 3 · 207 yards
The plan for No. 13
The 13th hole at Pinehurst Resort #7 presents a deceptively challenging par 3 that embodies Rees Jones' bold design philosophy on this rugged North Carolina terrain. At 207 yards, this tee shot demands precision to a small, elevated green that showcases the dramatic elevation changes No. 7 is renowned for. The straightforward layout masks the complexity of club selection, as the elevated target plays shorter than the yardage suggests, while the compact green offers little margin for error. With the course's signature undulating putting surface and natural sandy waste areas framing the hole, golfers must commit fully to their approach. This hole perfectly captures No. 7's reputation as Pinehurst's boldest test, where strategic thinking trumps power.
Off the tee
Club selection is critical on this elevated par 3, where the uphill shot typically plays longer than the yardage suggests. Most golfers will need one to two clubs more than the distance indicates, making this anywhere from a mid-iron to hybrid depending on conditions and player strength. The key is committing to your club choice and making a confident swing - tentative swings often come up short on elevated greens. Target the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the small green size leaves little margin for error. The straight layout means you can aim directly at your target without worrying about doglegs, but the elevated nature demands you trust your yardage calculation and club selection.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot IS your approach shot. The elevated green means you'll want to take one extra club and make a smooth, controlled swing rather than trying to force a shorter iron. The ball will likely release less upon landing due to the uphill trajectory, so don't be afraid to be aggressive with your target. Pay attention to wind conditions, as elevated greens are more susceptible to wind effects. A headwind will require even more club, while a tailwind might bring shorter irons back into play.
On the green
Pinehurst No. 7's greens are known for their undulations and elevation changes, and the 13th is no exception. Even though it's a small green, expect subtle breaks and potentially tricky reads. The elevated nature means putts may break differently than they appear from below. Focus on getting your first putt close rather than being overly aggressive. Two-putting from anywhere on this small green should be considered a success, especially if you've found the putting surface from the tee. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole offers limited risk/reward opportunities due to its straightforward design and small target. The main decision is club selection - taking enough club to comfortably reach the elevated green versus the risk of flying it if you take too much. The reward for aggressive play is minimal since the green is small, making the center-of-the-green strategy the smartest approach for most golfers. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-Handicap Players:** Take plenty of club and aim for the center of the green. Don't worry about pin hunting - just focus on finding the putting surface. Consider the elevation change and add at least one full club to your normal distance. A bogey here isn't a disaster given the hole's difficulty. **Low-Handicap Players:** While you have more precision in your iron play, resist the temptation to get too aggressive with pin positions. The small green and elevated target still demand respect. You can be slightly more aggressive with your target selection based on pin position, but center-green remains the percentage play. Focus on making solid contact and trusting your distance control. The key for all skill levels is respecting this hole's challenge while avoiding the big number that can derail a good round at Pinehurst No. 7.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 13 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,975 sq ft
How did Hole 13 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 207 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 207 yards, most golfers will need a long iron or hybrid (5-iron to 6-iron) to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.
How big is the green on hole 13?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.