Hole 1 at Erin Hills Golf Course

Par 5608 Yards • Erin, Wisconsin

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Erin Hills' opening hole sets the tone for this renowned Wisconsin championship venue, where precision meets power on the prairie landscape. The elevated green demands a high approach shot, immediately challenging players to execute quality strikes from the first tee. This strategic opener has tested professionals and amateurs alike since becoming a fixture on golf's biggest stages.

Tees:
608y560y536y536y485y386y
Green:30y × 23y
Fairway @250y:53y wide
5 BunkersWater dogleg

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Hole Stats

Par
5
Yardage
608 yds
Green
4003 sq ft
Bunkers
5
Water
Yes
Course Slope
145
Course Rating
77.9

Recommended Gear

A dependable fairway wood can turn this par 5 into a real birdie chance.

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Strategy Tips

tee shot

This 608-yard par-5 demands precision off the tee as there is no fairway at 200 yards - aim for the wider landing area that opens to 52 yards at the 250-yard mark to set up your approach.

approach

Your second shot strategy is critical with bunkers positioned at 394, 420, and 440 yards from the tee - lay up short of the 394-yard bunker or carry all hazards if going for the green in two.

green

The elevated green measures 30 yards by 23 yards (4,003 sq ft), favoring high approach shots - use extra club to account for the elevation and backstop behind the putting surface.

hazard warning

With the hole bending right-to-left and ground sloping left-to-right, be aware that bunkers guard the approach zone from 394-440 yards - conservative play to 250 yards sets up a manageable third shot to this par-5.

train this shot at home

This 608-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.

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Scoring Tip

Scoring on par 5s starts with a smart second shot. Laying up to your favorite wedge distance gives you the best birdie chance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can this par 5 be reached in two?

At 608 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.

How difficult is hole 1?

This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, water in play, heavily bunkered, small green.

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 1?

Key hazards include: water at 246.1 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 1?

The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.

What's a good score on hole 1?

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 1 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Erin Hills Golf Course. 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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