When you’re feeling adventurous on your next vacation to Scottsdale AZ and want to explore a small town that offers scenic views of the desert and mountains and has lots to do, head north from our Scottsdale vacation rentals to Cave Creek.
Where is Cave Creek, Arizona? It’s about 30 miles north of Scottsdale and it’s well worth the trip!
From exploring the popular Massacre Cave and an Old “Wild West” town to hiking and strolling through the massive Cave Creek Regional Park, there are many fun things to do near Cave Creek, AZ.
While of course there’s plenty to do in Scottsdale, from the OdySea Aquarium to major league training and minor league ballparks, you might want to see what lies beyond the city.
Come find out more about Cave Creek, the things you can do there, and learn more about the top Scottsdale luxury vacation rentals from Yonder.
History
It all started in 1863 when Arizona became a U.S. Territory. Fort Whipple soon became the territory’s first capital.
Dubbed “Cave Creek” by the Cavalry taking a shortcut from Camp McDowell to Fort Whipple in 1870, the area beside the flowing creek and near the cave saw its first home built by the Anglos in 1877. Soon after, Cave Creek Station, a lodge for travelers, was established by Jeriah and Amanda Wood.
From mining rich minerals in the 1860s and 70s to the development of working ranches in the 1880s, Cave Creek grew over the years and today is home to more than 4,900 residents.
Plan Your Next Visit!
Are you ready to explore outdoor activities in Scottsdale, Arizona during your next vacation? Browse our selection of Arizona vacation rentals today and find the perfect match for your adventure!
Things to Do in Cave Creek
For an Arizona town, you might be surprised by the number of things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona.
There is, of course, the cave in Cave Creek to explore. More of a cavern than an actual cave, Massacre Cave, as it is known from a deadly attack on the Navajo by Spanish soldiers in 1825, is a popular guided tour attraction. You can walk the easy path through the cavern and even see petroglyphs and pictographs on the rock walls—some as old as 2,000 years!
The town is home to Frontier Town, a recreated Old West town coupling modern shops and restaurants with Old West storefronts, a gallows, and even a Boot Hill Cemetery. You might also enjoy Cave Creek Museum, with its ancient and prehistoric artifacts. You can see pottery and other items crafted hundreds of years ago and learn about early inhabitants and settlers.
Black Mountain Trail offers stunning views and is a favorite hiking spot for visitors. The mountain areas also offer other hiking and biking trails, horseback riding, birdwatching, and picnicking.
Cave Creek Regional Park is a top location not only for hiking and biking but mountain biking, too. There are also areas for barbecuing and a playground for the kids.
If you’re feeling especially adventurous, take a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert!
Directions to Cave Creek from Scottsdale
Getting to Cave Creek from Scottsdale is simple: it’s a fairly straight run from AZ-101 Loop N and North Scottsdale Road. You’ll take East Cave Creek Road after about 28.5 miles and you’re in Cave Creek!
Where to Stay in Scottsdale
Yonder Luxury Vacation Rentals offers exceptional Scottsdale vacation rentals with incomparable service and proximity to major attractions and activities.
We have properties for large families or cozy accommodations for couples.
Our clean, well-maintained properties offer full bed linens, central A/C and heating, high-speed internet, washer/dryer, and ceiling fans in all rooms. Outside, you get convenient free off-street parking. In the backyard, you just might find a gas grill and fire pit so you can gather the entire family for a barbecue and roasted marshmallows after a day of Scottsdale adventure tours.
With decades of reliable and comfortable service, we’re sure we can provide the home away from home you’re looking for on your next AZ vacation.
