Fallout 76 is full of hidden surprises, and the Dino Golf course in Flatwoods is no exception. For those who have spent hours wandering Appalachia, you might have noticed the quirky miniature golf course tucked near the town—but there’s one spot that’s caught the attention of many players: Hole 9. This little secret isn’t just for show; it hides a fun Easter egg that rewards the curious and patient.
Finding the Entrance
The first step to uncovering the Hole 9 secret is, unsurprisingly, locating it. Most players know how to get to Dino Golf from the Flatwoods train station. Once inside, you’ll notice the last hole—Hole 9—sits behind a slightly tilted ramp. It’s easy to overlook because the path looks inaccessible at first glance. A small jump or two can get you onto the raised platform, but here’s a tip: crouching while jumping makes it much easier to land without sliding off.
Once you’re on the platform, you’ll see that the hole isn’t just a miniature putting green—it leads into a hidden passage. The corridor is dimly lit, so bringing a Pip-Boy flashlight helps avoid falling into a trap. Inside, you’ll find a small room with a few scattered loot items and a terminal, which is where the real fun begins.
What’s Inside the Secret Room
Inside this secret space, players often find rare Fallout 76 items. The loot varies, but it can include ammo, crafting materials, or even unique cosmetic items. I remember my first run here yielded a couple of high-tier weapon mods, which was a nice surprise. It’s little touches like these that make exploring Appalachia feel rewarding, especially when most players breeze past this area without noticing it.
If you’re hunting for specific gear or trying to maximize your stash, it’s worth coming back every so often. Loot here respawns periodically, and the mix of items keeps things interesting. Some players even like to treat Hole 9 as a mini grind spot, especially when combined with daily challenges or events.
Hidden Terminal and Easter Egg Notes
The terminal in the room isn’t just decoration—it contains lore entries and humorous messages referencing the classic Fallout games. I won’t spoil everything, but there’s a line that really made me chuckle about a lost golf ball and a misplaced Nuka-Cola. For fans who enjoy the narrative side of Fallout, this is a little nugget worth reading. Also, the terminal may trigger a small quest or hint towards another hidden location nearby, so it’s a good idea to interact with it thoroughly.
Tips for Collecting Gear
If you’re planning to make the most out of this secret area, here’s a practical tip: bring a few stash boxes or backpacks. While the loot isn’t overwhelming, it’s better to have a place to temporarily store rare Fallout 76 items before heading back to your CAMP. Players often underestimate the value of lightweight containers, but they can make repeated runs through hidden areas much more convenient.
Another thing I noticed is that other players sometimes camp around Dino Golf, especially during peak times. If you prefer solo exploration, try visiting during off-peak hours to avoid PvP encounters. On the flip side, teaming up can be fun, especially if you’re all hunting for the hidden treasures together.
Optional: Using Shops for Gear Prep
Before heading into Hole 9, it’s wise to make sure your character is well-prepared. Some players like to stock up on healing items and ammo via the Fallout 76 items shop. This is especially useful if you’re planning multiple runs, as you don’t want to waste time scavenging nearby when you could focus on the hidden loot. Personally, I tend to grab a few extra Stimpaks and RadAway, just to be safe—it’s a small investment for a big payoff.
For those who are short on caps, there are community resources like U4GM where you can trade for gear or currency safely. While I prefer finding items naturally, it’s a nice option if you want to experiment with builds or test out higher-level weapons without grinding endlessly.
Final Exploration Notes
The Hole 9 secret is a perfect example of what makes Fallout 76’s world feel alive. It rewards curiosity, patience, and a willingness to explore corners most players overlook. Beyond the immediate loot, it’s also a neat storytelling device, linking the whimsical Dino Golf setting to the larger, often eerie world of Appalachia. Even if you’re not chasing rare items, just discovering the hidden passage feels satisfying.
One last friendly tip: don’t rush through. Take a moment to enjoy the small details—the scattered golf balls, the worn signs, and the humorous terminal messages. These little touches are what make Fallout 76’s secrets so memorable.