Pinehurst No. 4

Pinehurst No. 4 was originally designed by Donald Ross in 1919 as one of the early courses at Pinehurst Resort. Over the decades it went through several iterations by different architects, including a Fazio redesign, that moved it further from its Sandhills roots. In 2018, Gil Hanse completed what he called a "retrovation" -- a complete reimagining that honored the minimalist, sandy character of the Carolina Sandhills while creating an entirely new routing.

Hanse stripped away heavy-handed design elements of previous renovations, restoring native sandy waste areas, removing unnecessary trees, and creating low-profile greens with bold contours that blend into the landscape. The result was named Golf Digest's Best New Course You Can Play in 2018 and immediately earned comparisons to the resort's crown jewel, No. 2.

At 7,361 yards and par 72, No. 4 is a strong test from the back tees, but wide fairways with kick-slopes that direct shots toward the greens make it supremely playable from forward tees. Many resort guests now consider No. 4 their favorite Pinehurst course.

Pinehurst No. 4 is visually stunning and feels timeless despite being completely rebuilt in 2018. Hanse created the design in the tradition of Carolina Sandhills golf with wide fairways, native sandy waste areas, low-profile greens, and minimal artificiality.

The experience complements rather than duplicates No. 2. Where No. 2 can be stern and exacting, No. 4 is more fun and accessible while still providing strategic depth for skilled players.

Use the kick-slopes to your advantage. Hanse designed many approach areas to funnel shots toward the greens, so playing ground shots can be highly effective. The greens have significant contour, so landing on the correct tier is more important than simply hitting the green.

Most resort guests will enjoy No. 4 more from the middle or forward tees where the strategic options are most apparent. Take time to study each green before putting -- the bold contours can produce surprising breaks.