Nestled in northwest Reno’s rolling foothills, Somersett is a neighborhood that blends breathtaking Sierra views with a spirit of close-knit community. While the area now evokes images of well-kept parks, scenic walking trails, and family bike rides, Somersett’s story stretches back far beyond its current suburban charm—a story shaped by the land’s natural beauty, entrepreneurial vision, and the families that have chosen to call it home.
From Native Lands to New Frontiers
Long before the Somersett Parkway wound through these hills, the land was home to Northern Paiute and Washoe peoples. They cherished the region for its abundant sagebrush, wildlife, and access to the Truckee River. Markings and artifacts just west of the neighborhood hint at a connection to this ancient heritage, with trails that once traced water sources now echoed in today’s pedestrian paths.
By the late 1800s, Western settlers began arriving in pursuit of ranching and mining opportunities. The hills surrounding what is now Somersett served as grazing land and occasional stopping points for travelers heading toward the goldfields or the burgeoning city of Reno itself. This early use set the stage for the area’s open spaces and enduring link to Nevada’s pioneering spirit.
The Story Behind the Somersett Name
Somersett’s name is as unique as the community itself, inspired by old English tradition. Developers aimed to evoke both a sense of place and a nod to the rolling English countryside—“Somerset”—but added an extra “t” to differentiate the Reno neighborhood and honor a blend of Western independence with a touch of European charm. While not directly tied to any one historical figure, the name reflects the merging of past and present ideals: community, natural beauty, and open space.
Pioneering Development and Key Milestones
It wasn’t until the late 1990s that Somersett as we know it began to take shape. After years as mostly ranchland and undeveloped bluffs, landowners and developers recognized its potential as an intentional, master-planned community. In 2001, building began in earnest, with the first wave of homes offering panoramic views from Somersett Ridge and Caughlin Ranch to the sparkling city lights below.
Key milestones in Somersett’s modern history include:
- 2004: Grand Opening of the Somersett Club – The neighborhood’s gathering space and social heart quickly became a hub for swimming, fitness, and year-round events.
- 2005: Somersett Golf & Country Club Inauguration – Designed by U.S. Open Champion Tom Kite, this acclaimed course winds gracefully through the arroyos, integrating sparkling water features and natural rock outcroppings. It’s both a recreational landmark and an anchor for community spirit.
- Mid-2000s: Trail System Expansion – An extensive network of over 27 miles of walking and biking trails weaves through the neighborhood, connecting residents to parks, schools, and scenic overlooks.
- 2008: Sierra Canyon by Del Webb Opens – Catering to active adults over 55, this resort-style enclave introduced a new dimension of community to Somersett, complete with its own amenities and lifestyle programs.
Notable Landmarks and Local Institutions
Somersett’s focal points range from natural vistas to well-loved gathering spots. Among these:
- Somersett Parkway – The main thoroughfare, known for its dramatic vistas of Peavine Peak and the Sierras, ties together Somersett’s neighborhoods and parks.
- Village Green Park – With its playgrounds, sports fields, and summer splash pad, this park is a magnet for families and hosts a variety of seasonal events.
- The Town Square – Centrally located near the entrance, Somersett’s Town Square is home to local businesses, coffee shops, and outdoor community concerts. It has become the neighborhood’s unofficial “front porch.”
- Somersett Golf Course – Recognized regionally, this championship 18-hole layout is celebrated for both its challenge and its views, drawing not only residents but also visitors from across Northern Nevada.
- Sierra Canyon Aspen Lodge – At the heart of Sierra Canyon, this expansive lodge features indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and spaces for social clubs and lifelong learning.
Somersett Through the Years: Growth and Community
Over the decades, Somersett’s development has embraced both NorNevada’s rugged scenery and the value of community bonding. Early residents often recall watching wildlife—deer, rabbits, and hawks—along Del Webb Parkway and Sunset Ridge Drive, long before these streets resonated with the laughter of neighborhood children or the clicks of hikers’ trekking poles.
Through careful master planning, the community has struck a balance between preserving open space and encouraging neighborly connections. Events like the annual Fall Harvest Festival, “Jazz at Sunset,” Fourth of July parades, and the Somersett Farmers Market have become local traditions. These gatherings, often centered around Village Green Park or the Clubhouse, root the neighborhood in a sense of shared history even as it welcomes new families each year.
Somersett is also proud of its educational institutions. Just beyond its western edge lies Westergard Elementary, a top-rated public school beloved by local families. Proximity to Northgate Park and easy access to the Truckee River make outdoor recreation a staple of daily life.
Preserving the Spirit of Somersett
While Somersett has changed with time, its commitment to nature, neighborliness, and lasting quality has not. The rolling hills continue to inspire artists and walkers. Streets like Hawk Meadow Drive, Back Nine Trail, and Rolling River Parkway retain their friendly, safe, and scenic character.
Newer neighborhoods and projects thoughtfully echo Somersett’s original vision—emphasizing purposeful design, sustainability, and community involvement. Whether enjoying panoramic sunsets from the Summit Ridge overlook, golfing at dusk, or sharing coffee in the Town Square, longtime residents know that the true heartbeat of Somersett is its blend of past and present—a place where generations connect, stories endure, and every sunrise over the Sierra brings new chapters to an ever-evolving legacy.
As Somersett continues to grow, those who call it home cherish both its history and its future. Whether you’re exploring the trails that wind through its hills, teeing off beneath open skies, or simply pausing to watch the changing seasons, Somersett offers an inspiring reminder: community and heritage flourish best where natural beauty and human connection meet.