Hole 5 at Merion Golf Club (East Course)
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 418 yds
- Hazards
- 1 bunker · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 36 yds deep × 32 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Pro tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Pro tees · Par 4 · 418 yards
The plan for No. 5
The 5th at Merion Golf Club (East Course) is a 418.0-yard par 4 that plays straightaway.
Off the tee
The tee shot strategy centers on finding the ideal position in the landing zone while avoiding any rough areas that could complicate your approach. Given the 418-yard length, most players can use driver confidently, but the key is accuracy over distance. Aim for the center-left portion of the fairway to set up the best angle into the small green. Players who can carry the ball about 250-260 yards should focus on a smooth, controlled swing rather than trying to overpower the hole. The straight layout allows for aggressive play, but maintaining fairway position is crucial for the approach shot.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot to Merion's 5th green is where the hole shows its teeth. The small green demands pinpoint accuracy, typically requiring a mid-iron to short-iron depending on your tee shot position and pin location. From an ideal fairway lie, you'll likely face a 140-170 yard shot that requires precise distance control. The key is committing to your yardage and swinging smoothly - the small target punishes both short and long misses. Favor the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the putting surface's size makes any part of the green a reasonable result.
On the green
The small green at the 5th creates unique putting challenges that require careful attention to speed control. With limited real estate, approach putts must be struck with precise pace to avoid running off the putting surface. Read the green carefully from multiple angles, as subtle breaks can be magnified on the compact surface. When facing longer putts, prioritize getting the ball close rather than being aggressive with the hole - two-putting from anywhere on this green represents solid execution.
Watch for
- Water along the hole
- Fairway bunker crossing the landing zone
Hole 5 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 6,887 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 · 6d 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 5 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 418 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 418-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 5?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: water in play.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 5?
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Key hazards include: water at 234.6 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 5?
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The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.