Beyond No. 2: Exploring the Other Courses at Pinehurst Resort
Dive into the rich variety of Pinehurst's other courses, each with its own unique character.
While most golfers have heard of Pinehurst No. 2, the Pinehurst Resort boasts a collection of other magnificent courses that deserve recognition. With nine additional 18-hole courses, a playful putting course, and an engaging short course, Pinehurst is much more than its famous centerpiece. Each course, whether crafted by legendary designers or modern architects, delivers a unique blend of beauty and challenge. Discover these lesser-known courses at Pinehurst and see why this resort is a golfer’s dream come true.
Pinehurst No. 1
Architect: Donald Ross
Year Opened: 1898
Length: 6,089 yards
Par: 70
Pinehurst No. 1 is the original course and provides a classic Ross design that emphasizes shot-making and strategy over distance. The course offers a gentle introduction to the Pinehurst experience with its forgiving fairways and manageable length. Notably, the greens are smaller and subtly contoured, demanding precision with approach shots.
Pinehurst No. 3
Architect: Donald Ross
Year Opened: 1910
Length: 5,155 yards
Par: 68
Pinehurst No. 3 is shorter but no less challenging, featuring Ross’s trademark small, undulating greens. The course rewards accuracy and precision, making it a delightful challenge for golfers of all skill levels. The compact layout and strategic bunkering require thoughtful club selection and shot placement.
Pinehurst No. 4
Architect: Gil Hanse (Renovation)
Year Opened: 1919 (renovated in 2018)
Length: 7,227 yards
Par: 72
Recently renovated by Gil Hanse, Pinehurst No. 4 features rugged sandy areas, native grasses, and bold green complexes. This course provides a modern take on the classic Pinehurst style, with a variety of strategic options on every hole. The undulating fairways and natural waste areas add both beauty and challenge to the layout.
Pinehurst No. 5
Architect: Ellis Maples
Year Opened: 1961
Length: 6,848 yards
Par: 72
Designed by Ellis Maples, Pinehurst No. 5 is known for its variety of holes and scenic views. The course features more water hazards than most Pinehurst courses, requiring strategic play and thoughtful shot selection. The greens are large and well-contoured, providing a true test of putting skill.
Pinehurst No. 6
Architect: George Fazio & Tom Fazio
Year Opened: 1979
Length: 7,117 yards
Par: 71
Pinehurst No. 6, designed by George and Tom Fazio, is set among rolling hills and dense forests. It offers a more modern design with larger greens and significant elevation changes, making it a challenging yet enjoyable round. The fairways are tree-lined, and the course’s length tests the full range of a golfer’s skills.
Pinehurst No. 7
Architect: Rees Jones
Year Opened: 1986
Length: 7,216 yards
Par: 72
Known for its length and large, undulating greens, Pinehurst No. 7 is set within a large expanse of wetlands. The course is challenging, with significant elevation changes and water hazards that come into play on several holes. The natural beauty of the wetlands provides a stunning backdrop, while the varied terrain demands strategic thinking and precise execution.
Pinehurst No. 8
Architect: Tom Fazio
Year Opened: 1996
Length: 7,099 yards
Par: 72
Pinehurst No. 8 blends seamlessly into the natural landscape, featuring rolling terrain and wetlands. Designed by Tom Fazio, it celebrates Pinehurst’s 100th anniversary and provides a layout that rewards both strategy and shot-making. The course incorporates natural wetlands and significant elevation changes, making for a visually stunning and challenging round.
Pinehurst No. 9
Architect: Jack Nicklaus
Year Opened: 1988
Length: 7,122 yards
Par: 72
Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Pinehurst No. 9 is known for its wide fairways, large greens, and strategic bunkering. The course demands precision and thoughtful play, with water hazards that challenge players on several holes. The distinctive Nicklaus design elements, such as elevated greens and well-placed bunkers, provide a memorable golfing experience.
Pinehurst No. 10
Architect: Tom Doak
Year Opened: 2024
Length: 7,020 yards
Par: 70
The newest course at the resort, No. 10 was designed by Tom Doak and spans a 900-acre area that was formerly a sand mining site, providing it with a distinctive and rugged topography. The course's design harnesses the land's organic features, incorporating quarries and rewilded mining remnants to create a visually captivating and strategically complex experience.
The Cradle (9-Hole Short Course)
Architect: Gil Hanse
Year Opened: 2017
Length: 789 yards
Par: 27
The Cradle is a fun and engaging 9-hole short course designed by Gil Hanse. Perfect for all skill levels, it features a variety of hole designs that challenge players’ short game skills. It’s a great place for a relaxed round or a quick practice session, and the compact layout ensures a quick and enjoyable experience.
Thistle Dhu (18-Hole Putting Course)
Architect: Gil Hanse
Year Opened: 2012
Par: 36
Thistle Dhu is a creative and challenging putting course with rolling greens and obstacles. It’s perfect for a fun, casual game with friends or as a warm-up before a round on one of the 18-hole courses. The imaginative design and variety of putting challenges make it a favorite among visitors.
Pinehurst Resort offers an incredible array of golfing experiences. From the classic designs of Donald Ross to the modern renovations of Gil Hanse, each course presents its unique challenges and beauty. If you’re interested in experiencing a piece of Pinehurst for yourself, be sure to check out Pinehurst No. 2 in GOLF+ and immerse yourself in the iconic setting from the comfort of your home.
