Hole 4 at Erin Hills Golf Course
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 439 yds
- Stroke index
- 11
- Hazards
- 8 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 20 yds deep × 32 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 4 · 439 yards
The plan for No. 4
Erin Hills Golf Course hole 4 presents a deceptively straightforward par 4 that epitomizes championship-caliber design at this renowned Wisconsin venue. At 439 yards, this straight hole demands precision over power, with the absence of traditional hazards placing premium emphasis on course management and execution. The tee shot requires careful positioning to set up the optimal angle into a small, elevated green that favors high approach shots. The ground's natural contours create subtle strategic elements, with slopes that can redirect wayward shots. What makes this hole memorable is its pure, minimalist design philosophy—typical of Erin Hills' links-inspired character—where the challenge lies not in manufactured hazards but in the natural terrain and precise shot requirements that have tested professionals in multiple USGA championships.
Off the tee
Your tee shot strategy should focus on positioning for the optimal approach angle rather than maximum distance. The straight layout allows for aggressive driving, but consider the approach shot requirements when selecting your target line. A driver or 3-wood down the center-left portion of the fairway typically provides the best angle to the green. Avoid getting too far right, as this can complicate your approach angle to the elevated green. The landing zone around 250-280 yards out offers the ideal position for most golfers to attack the pin.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot is where this hole reveals its true character. The elevated green demands a high-trajectory shot that can land softly and hold the putting surface. Based on reports from golfers who've played here, the green "favors a high approach," making club selection critical. Consider taking one extra club to ensure you clear the front edge comfortably, as coming up short on an elevated green often results in the ball rolling back significantly. Mid-iron to long-iron depending on conditions and pin position will typically be your best options. The small green size requires precision - aim for the center of the green unless you're confident in your distance control.
On the green
The small green at Erin Hills' 4th hole puts a premium on accurate approach shots and smart putting strategy. With limited real estate to work with, focus on lag putting to avoid three-putts rather than being overly aggressive with birdie attempts. The elevated nature of the green can create subtle breaks that aren't immediately apparent from ground level. Take time to read the green from multiple angles, paying particular attention to how putts will break as they near the hole. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole offers a classic risk/reward scenario in club selection and aggression level. The reward for an accurate approach shot is a legitimate birdie opportunity on what should be a scoring hole given its handicap rating of 11. However, the risk of missing the small, elevated green can lead to difficult up-and-down situations. The smart play is often to aim for the center of the green and take your par, especially when pin positions are tucked near edges. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low-Handicap Players:** Should view this as a birdie opportunity with aggressive tee shots and precise approach play. Focus on dialing in exact yardages and using the elevated green to your advantage by playing high, soft approaches that can attack pins. **High-Handicap Players:** Play conservatively by aiming for the center of the green regardless of pin position. Consider laying up to a comfortable wedge distance if your mid-iron accuracy is inconsistent. The elevated green will reject poorly struck shots, so ensure solid contact over distance. Take your par and move on - this hole can quickly balloon if you get too aggressive with recovery shots around the green. The 4th hole at Erin Hills exemplifies championship golf course design, where strategic thinking trumps pure power, making it an excellent test of complete golf skills.
Watch for
- Sand_1 — Greenside center
- Sand_2 — Crossing center
- Sand_3 — Greenside center
- Sand_4 — Crossing center
- Sand_5 — Crossing center
- Sand_6 — Crossing center
- Sand_7 — Crossing center
- Sand_8 — Crossing center
Hole 4 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,318 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 · 5d 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 4 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 439 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 439-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 4?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: heavily bunkered, small green.
How big is the green on hole 4?
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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 4?
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This hole is a demanding hole where bogey is not unusual. This longer par 4 will test most golfers. Focus on position over distance.