Hole 16 at Pinehurst Resort #7
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 197 yds
- Stroke index
- 18
- Hazards
- 1 bunker
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 29 yds deep × 28 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 · 197 yards
The plan for No. 16
The signature 16th at Pinehurst Resort #7 showcases the course's bold design philosophy with its iconic "Jones' Fingers" bunker complex. This distinctive par 3 stretches 197 yards to a small, well-protected green where the massive hand-shaped bunker creates both visual intimidation and strategic complexity. The fingers of sand reach toward the putting surface, demanding precise club selection and committed execution on the tee shot. What makes this hole truly memorable is its risk-reward balance – while birdie opportunities exist for those who find the green, the unforgiving bunkers and compact target make bogey equally possible. This penultimate test embodies Pinehurst No. 7's reputation for keeping golfers mentally engaged, requiring both courage and precision when it matters most in the round.
Off the tee
Club selection is absolutely critical on this 197-yard one-shotter. The key is committing to enough club to clear any trouble and reach the putting surface with confidence. Most players will be looking at a mid to long iron depending on conditions and pin position. The target line should favor the center of the green initially, allowing you to adjust based on pin placement. Avoid the temptation to be too aggressive with pin hunting - the small green size means center-green strategy often yields the best results.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot IS your approach shot, making club selection even more crucial. The infamous "Jones' Fingers" bunker complex creates both visual intimidation and strategic complexity around the green. Study the pin position carefully during your pre-shot routine, as the small green means different quadrants can require significantly different approaches. Factor in wind conditions, as this length of shot makes wind a major consideration. Trust your yardage and commit fully to your club choice.
On the green
The small green at the 16th rewards accurate approaches but can punish those who miss in the wrong spots. Pinehurst greens are known for their subtle movements and firm conditions, so expect putts to have more break than initially appears. Pay attention to grain direction and green speed, as these factors become magnified on smaller putting surfaces. Leave yourself below the hole when possible, as uphill putts are generally more manageable on Pinehurst's quick greens. ## RISK VS REWARD The 16th hole perfectly embodies the risk/reward philosophy of Pinehurst No. 7. The reward for hitting the green is a legitimate birdie opportunity on what should be a manageable par 3. However, the risk comes from the surrounding trouble and the precision required to find the small target. Conservative play toward the center of the green often yields better scoring than aggressive pin-seeking, especially when the pin is tucked behind bunkers or near edges. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-Handicap Players:** Focus on making solid contact and getting the ball airborne toward the green. Don't get intimidated by the "Jones' Fingers" bunker - pick a safe target in the center of the green and commit to smooth tempo. Take one extra club to ensure you clear any trouble and reach the putting surface. **Low-Handicap Players:** This hole offers a scoring opportunity if you execute properly. Study the pin position and green conditions carefully, as precision can be rewarded with birdie chances. However, respect the small target and don't force difficult shots when the percentages aren't in your favor. Course management skills are just as important as ball-striking ability here. The 16th hole at Pinehurst No. 7 exemplifies why this course keeps you thinking until the very end. Success requires the perfect blend of confidence and restraint, making it a true test of both skill and mental fortitude.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 16 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,603 sq ft
How did Hole 16 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 197 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 197 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 difficult is hole 16?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers.
How big is the green on hole 16?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.