The Inside Swing

Washington National Golf Club

Auburn, Washington

Public Course · 18 Holes · Par 72 · 7,304 yds · $40–$80 · 4.2

A John Fought design south of Seattle in Auburn, Washington National features a dramatic routing through the Green River Valley with views of Mount Rainier and the Cascades. The 7,304-yard championship layout has hosted U.S. Open qualifiers and provides one of the strongest public golf tests in the Seattle metro area.

History & Heritage

Washington National Golf Club opened in 2000, designed by John Fought (1977 U.S. Amateur Champion) in Auburn southeast of Seattle. The course serves as the home venue for the University of Washington men\'s and women\'s golf teams and has hosted U.S. Open qualifying.

Fought created a championship layout at 7,304 yards featuring contrasting aesthetics — rugged natural areas alongside manicured playing surfaces — with Mount Rainier and Cascade views as a backdrop.

Signature Holes

7
Hole 7 Par 4 · 430 yards

A strong risk/reward hole where longer hitters can challenge water and go directly at the green, while the conservative route plays safely right. Strategic decision-making off the tee defines the outcome.

What to Expect

A championship-length test at 7,304 yards from the Husky tees with bent grass throughout. The layout blends ponds, tree-lined fairways, and doglegs. Forgiving off the tee on most holes but demands accurate approach play.

Mount Rainier and Cascade Range views provide a stunning Northwest backdrop. The walkable terrain blends flat and gently rolling sections. Conditions are strong year-round, though Pacific Northwest winters bring softer conditions.

Public access at quality comparable to many private clubs.

Playing Tips

Choose tees wisely — the championship length is a serious test. Use a GPS or rangefinder; yardage markers can be hard to find on some holes.

On risk/reward holes, know your carry distances precisely before challenging water.

Approach shot accuracy matters more than driving distance. The greens are well-defended.

In winter months, expect softer conditions and adjust club selection accordingly.

Highlights

  • U.S. Open qualifier host venue
  • Mount Rainier and Cascade views
  • John Fought 7,304-yard championship layout

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the UW Huskies home course?
Yes — Washington National serves as the home venue for the University of Washington men\'s and women\'s golf teams.
Has it hosted professional qualifying?
Yes — U.S. Open qualifiers have been held here, confirming its championship caliber.
Who designed it?
John Fought, the 1977 U.S. Amateur Champion also known for Pumpkin Ridge and other acclaimed Pacific Northwest designs.

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