Hole 1 at Erin Hills Golf Course
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 608 yds
- Stroke index
- 3
- Hazards
- 5 bunkers · Water
Hole 1 map
29 yd wide × 21 yd deep · 2.4 ft total elevation range
Light = gentler slope · Red = steeper slope
White lines: 1 foot of elevation. Arrows: downhill. General terrain, not a pin read.
Approach from bottom
Contour source
USGS one meter x38y479 WI SEWRPC 2017 · collection 2015
Map source & reference
Mapbox Satellite composite · capture date not provided. Green at the top; the labeled map reference is below.
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 5 · 608 yards
The plan for No. 1
The opening statement at Erin Hills Golf Course sets an imposing tone with this 608-yard par 5 that demands both power and precision from the championship tees. This straight-away hole showcases the course's links-style character across Wisconsin's rolling terrain, offering multiple strategic options for players of varying abilities. The generous fairway provides ample landing area for the tee shot, but the real challenge emerges in the approach to the compact green complex. Without traditional hazards to navigate, golfers must instead contend with the natural undulations and strategic positioning that define this U.S. Open venue. The elevated green rewards accurate iron play and creates a memorable opening experience that establishes the championship pedigree of this renowned layout.
Off the tee
Your tee shot strategy should prioritize finding the optimal landing zone for your second shot rather than maximum distance. The straight layout allows for an aggressive target line down the center, but course management becomes crucial given the hole's length. Longer hitters can consider driver to maximize distance, while players seeking position may opt for 3-wood or hybrid to ensure they stay in the short grass. The wide fairway provides room for error, but accuracy here sets up better angles for the approach shots to follow.
Approach & recovery
The approach strategy varies significantly based on whether you're going for the green in two or laying up for a wedge. For those attempting to reach in regulation, the elevated green demands a high trajectory shot that can hold the putting surface. The small green size makes club selection critical - favor one more club than the yardage suggests to account for the elevation change. Players laying up should position themselves in the optimal wedge range, typically leaving a full swing rather than an awkward half-shot to the elevated target.
On the green
The small green at Erin Hills' first hole demands precision with your putter. Approach putts should focus on getting below the hole when possible, as uphill putts will be more manageable than downhill attempts on this elevated surface. The green's compact size means most putts will be relatively straight, but pay attention to any subtle breaks that may be influenced by the surrounding terrain elevation. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole presents a classic scoring opportunity versus safety decision. Aggressive players can attack the green in two shots, potentially setting up eagle chances, but the elevated, small target increases the risk of missing the green entirely. The conservative three-shot approach virtually guarantees a reasonable birdie look while eliminating big numbers. Weather conditions and pin position should heavily influence this decision. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low Handicap Players:** Can aggressively pursue the green in two with longer irons or hybrids, using their distance control to handle the elevated target. Focus on committing fully to the shot selection and trusting your swing. **Mid Handicap Players:** Should generally play this as a three-shot hole, using the tee shot to set up a comfortable layup position. This approach minimizes risk while still providing birdie opportunities with a well-executed wedge. **High Handicap Players:** Take the conservative route by playing three manageable shots. Use fairway woods or hybrids off the tee for accuracy, lay up to your most comfortable wedge distance, and focus on getting your approach shot onto the green rather than close to the pin. The opening hole at Erin Hills rewards smart course management while punishing overly aggressive play. Start your round with a clear plan and execute it with confidence.
Watch for
- Sand_1 — Crossing center
- Sand_2 — Crossing center
- Sand_3 — Crossing center
- Sand_4 — Crossing center
- Sand_5 — Crossing center
- Water — Crossing center
Hole 1 Green Complex & Slope
USGS 3DEP terrain analysis
Green size: 4,003 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about Erin Hills Golf Course — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Featured by these creators
Creator videos about this course
YouTube creators who filmed or featured Erin Hills Golf Course. · Stats as of Oct 12, 2026 · 6d ago
The Major Cut @ Erin Hills
Can We Make Cut @ Erin Hills?! (Major Cut Ep. 5)
The back nine at Erin Hills with Riggs. Presented by @EveryManJack
World #2 Jeeno Thitikul at the U.S. Women's Open at Erin Hills 🍀
Scottie Scheffler's peak, Erin Hills pops back, & Sponsor Exemption windfalls | The Shotgun Start
How did Hole 1 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 608 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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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?
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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?
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Key hazards include: water at 246.1 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 1?
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The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
What's a good score on hole 1?
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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.