The Inside Swing

Somersett Country Club - Canyon

Reno, Nevada

Private Club · 18 Holes · Par 72 · 6,913 yds · Members Only · 4.3

A Tom Kite design in the Somersett community west of Reno, the Canyon Course features a dramatic routing through desert canyons with panoramic Sierra Nevada views. The U.S. Open champion's design emphasizes strategic play and shot variety through elevation changes and native desert terrain.

History & Heritage

Somersett\'s Canyon Course was designed by Tom Kite (with Roy Bechtol and Randy Russell) and opened around 2003-2004 as part of a residential community on Reno\'s western edge. The 18-hole par-72 championship course stretches to 7,252 yards with a slope topping 138.

The club also features a separate 9-hole Canyon Nine (par 27 executive course). The Sierra Nevada mountains provide a spectacular backdrop throughout. Rolling high-desert terrain with dramatic elevation changes and several blind shots.

Signature Holes

14
Hole 14 Par 5 · 588 yards

A double dogleg winding between natural desert terrain — widely considered the best and most strategic hole on the course. At 588 yards with considerable intrigue, it rewards intelligent routing decisions on every shot.

What to Expect

Rolling high-desert terrain with dramatic elevation changes and several blind or semi-blind shots. Sierra Nevada backdrop throughout. The slope rating (138+) confirms this is a demanding test. Cart-path-only conditions are common.

Private — membership or member invitation required.

Playing Tips

Elevation changes create blind approach shots — study the yardage book carefully.

First-time players should ask members for guidance. Course knowledge is rewarded.

The altitude (5,000+ feet) adds carry but uphill holes are genuinely long.

Highlights

  • Tom Kite desert canyon design
  • Panoramic Sierra Nevada mountain views
  • Strategic routing through canyon terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed it?
Tom Kite with Roy Bechtol and Randy Russell. Kite\'s emphasis on strategic options reflects his major championship playing philosophy.

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