Hole 4 at Merion Golf Club (East Course)
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 600 yds
- Hazards
- 1 bunker · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 41 yds deep × 24 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 · 600 yards
The plan for No. 4
The 4th at Merion Golf Club (East Course) is a 600.0-yard par 5 that plays straightaway.
Off the tee
Your opening shot sets the foundation for the entire hole. Focus on finding the center of the fairway with a controlled drive, prioritizing accuracy over maximum distance. A solid 250-280 yard tee shot leaves you perfectly positioned for your second shot without overextending. Avoid the temptation to bomb your driver - course management starts immediately on this hole. The straight layout allows you to aim directly at your target, but maintain discipline with your swing tempo to ensure you stay in play.
Approach & recovery
Your second shot is crucial for setting up a manageable third shot into that demanding small green. Lay up to your preferred wedge distance, typically leaving yourself 100-120 yards for your approach. This conservative strategy gives you the best angle and distance control for attacking the pin. Resist the urge to go for the green in two unless conditions are perfect and you're confident in your long iron or fairway wood accuracy. The small green size makes precision essential, and a shorter approach shot dramatically improves your chances of hitting and holding the putting surface.
On the green
Merion's characteristically small, firm greens demand respect and precise distance control. Focus on hitting your approach to the center of the green regardless of pin position - the margin for error is minimal. These greens typically feature subtle breaks that can be deceptive, so take time to read the slope carefully. Lag putting becomes critical on longer putts, as three-putting from distance can quickly turn a scoring opportunity into a disappointing result.
Watch for
- Water along the hole
- Fairway bunker crossing the landing zone
Hole 4 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,841 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about Merion Golf Club (East Course) — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Official & tour
Tour & network videos
Official coverage mentioning Merion Golf Club (East Course).
2026 U.S. Amateur: Quarterfinals at Merion Golf Club | Full Broadcast
2026 U.S. Amateur: Round of 64 at Merion Golf Club | Full Broadcast
2026 U.S. Amateur: Round of 16 at Merion Golf Club | Full Broadcast
Featured by these creators
Creator videos about this course
YouTube creators who filmed or featured Merion Golf Club (East Course). · Stats as of Oct 12, 2026 · 5d ago
We Played a Match at My Favorite Course (Merion Golf Club)
Merion Golf Club's Sneakiest Hole | Great Golf Holes
The 18th Hole at Merion Golf Club: A Presentation Problem #golf
Merion Golf Club 101: 2026 U.S. Amateur Host | Designing Golf
How did Hole 4 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 600 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 600 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 4?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, water in play.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 4?
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Key hazards include: water at 544.5 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 4?
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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 4?
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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.