Erin Hills

Erin Hills was designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, Dana Fry, and Golf Digest architecture editor Ron Whitten on glacial kettle moraine terrain in the town of Erin, Wisconsin. The course opened in 2006, carved from farmland with dramatic 100-foot elevation changes created by glacial activity thousands of years ago.

The course hosted the 2011 U.S. Amateur before being selected for the 2017 U.S. Open — the first ever held in Wisconsin. Brooks Koepka won at 16-under par, a record-tying score. Heavy rains softened conditions and sparked debate about whether the setup was too easy.

Erin Hills is a walking-only public course operating as a destination resort with on-site lodging. At 7,823 yards from the championship tees, it is one of the longest courses in America with wide fescue-covered ridgelines and a links-like character unique in the Midwest.

Erin Hills is a walking-only course through dramatic glacial terrain with 100-foot elevation changes. Wide fairways are bordered by tall native fescue that punishes wayward shots. At 7,823 yards from the tips, it is one of the longest courses in America, though forward tees bring it to manageable length.

The open, treeless character creates a links-like feel unusual for the Midwest. Wind is significant on exposed ridgelines. On-site lodging allows a destination-golf experience.

Play from appropriate tees — the course is an absolute monster from the tips. The fescue rough is thick and penal so accuracy off the tee is paramount. If you miss a fairway, pitch back to safety rather than attempting a hero shot.

Greens are large but subtly contoured. Wind on exposed ridgelines can add two to three clubs. Walking is the only option so prepare for a physically demanding round over hilly terrain.