Pinehurst Resort, located in North Carolina, is a golf lover’s paradise with a total of 10 18-hole courses on its sprawling property. While the iconic Donald Ross-designed No. 2 course hosts the U.S. Open championship, there is plenty of variety in the other courses, including the redesigned No. 4 by Gil Hanse. However, the hidden gem at Pinehurst Resort is The Cradle, a nine-hole short course designed by Hanse and debuted in 2017, which plays to just 789 yards on sandy soil.
The Cradle offers a laid-back atmosphere with music playing over loudspeakers and dynamic and fun greens. The course also features the Cradle Crossing, a grab-and-go stop for snacks and drinks, complete with a TV, firepit, and Adirondack chairs. The cost to play The Cradle is just $50 for the entire day, with kids under 17 playing for free with an adult. This short course offers a unique and enjoyable experience for golfers of all ages and skill levels.
During the U.S. Open week, the driving range at Pinehurst Resort is located atop The Cradle, providing a unique setup for the pros. The design of the range offers nine different targets for the players to choose from as they warm up for the tournament. The range also provides a perfect setting for viewing and corporate events, with a flat and elevated area ideal for tents and catering. The long balls are kept at bay with a fence at the end, ensuring a safe environment for the players and spectators.
The pros, including Hideki Matsuyama and Viktor Hovland, were seen warming up on the range at Pinehurst Resort during the U.S. Open week, providing spectators with a glimpse of their skills before the tournament. The fans watching were excited about the opportunity to play The Cradle, a hidden nine-hole gem, and experience the same excitement as their favorite players. The Cradle offers a unique and challenging experience for golfers looking to have some fun on the course.
As the managing editor of GOLF.com, Josh Berhow handles the day-to-day and long-term planning of one of the most-read news and service websites for golf lovers. With a passion for the sport, Berhow spends his days writing, editing, and planning content for the website. Before joining GOLF.com, he worked at newspapers in Minnesota and Iowa, bringing a wealth of experience to his role. Berhow is a graduate of Minnesota State University and resides in the Twin Cities with his family.
In conclusion, Pinehurst Resort offers a diverse golfing experience with a total of 10 18-hole courses on its property, including the iconic No. 2 course. However, the hidden gem at the resort is The Cradle, a nine-hole short course designed by Gil Hanse, offering a unique and enjoyable experience for golfers of all ages and skill levels. During the U.S. Open week, the driving range atop The Cradle provides a perfect setup for the pros to warm up, with nine different targets to choose from. The laid-back atmosphere and fun greens at The Cradle make it a must-play course for anyone visiting Pinehurst Resort.
