Nestled in the foothills of the majestic McDowell Mountains, Scottsdale Mountain stands as one of North Scottsdale’s most exclusive guard-gated communities, representing the pinnacle of luxury desert living. As an Associate Broker with West USA Realty, I’ve had the privilege of guiding many discerning clients through this remarkable community of over 700 stunning homes, each positioned to capture the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoran Desert landscape. Established in the mid-1990s near 136th Street and Shea Boulevard, this premier residential enclave was thoughtfully developed to preserve the natural high desert character while creating an exclusive sanctuary for those seeking uncompromising quality and privacy.
The community’s strategic location places residents just minutes from world-renowned medical facilities including the Mayo Clinic, while maintaining the serene, secluded atmosphere that defines luxury mountain living. From virtually every vantage point within Scottsdale Mountain, residents enjoy sensational mountain views to the north and spectacular city light vistas stretching across the Valley of the Sun to the south, creating a living experience that seamlessly blends natural grandeur with metropolitan sophistication.
Scottsdale Mountain showcases an impressive collection of custom-built residences that exemplify the finest in desert contemporary architecture. The community features homes ranging from elegant 1,500-square-foot residences to magnificent 10,000-square-foot estates, with prices spanning from $435,000 to over $3.2 million. Most homes were constructed during the community’s primary development phase from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s, representing the era’s most sophisticated desert architectural principles.
The community includes several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and building standards. Horizons at Scottsdale Mountain features homes by Maracay Homes, offering thoughtfully designed floor plans that maximize both mountain and city views. The Renaissance at Scottsdale Mountain neighborhood showcases residences by Ryland Homes, with distinctive plans named after artistic masters including Mozart, Bach, Beethoven, Picasso, Da Vinci, and Rembrandt models that reflect the community’s commitment to inspired design.
Saddleback at Scottsdale Mountain presents another architectural dimension with custom homes featuring signature designs like The Latilla, The Mirador, and The Portales. Many of the community’s most impressive custom estates sit along natural desert washes, offering unobstructed views of the towering McDowells while maintaining the intimate connection with the high desert environment that makes this location so extraordinary.
The architectural guidelines ensure all homes complement the mountain backdrop while allowing for individual expression and exceptional build quality. Contemporary desert designs feature clean lines, warm materials, and expansive glass walls that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living spaces, perfectly suited to Arizona’s year-round outdoor lifestyle.
Golf enthusiasts will discover they’re surrounded by some of Arizona’s most prestigious golf destinations. McDowell Mountain Golf Club, designed by Randy Heckenkemper, offers a premier public golf experience set against the stunning backdrop of the McDowell Mountains’ western slope. This eco-friendly 6,624-yard, par-71 championship course provides both challenging play and spectacular scenery, with the signature 18th hole offering a risk-reward par 5 finish that can make or break your round.
Eagle Mountain Golf Club, designed by Scott Miller and opened in 1996, presents a spectacular representation of desert golf harmony. Nestled in the ravines of the McDowell Mountains, this par-71, 6,800-yard layout winds through natural box canyons, rolling hills, and lush desert valleys. The course is renowned for its challenging yet fair play, with contoured fairways and immaculately maintained emerald greens that provide an outstanding golf experience for players of all skill levels.
Additional championship golf experiences are readily accessible at Ancala Country Club, Firerock Country Club, the Country Club at DC Ranch, and Grayhawk Golf Club. These facilities offer both member and non-member options, ensuring golf enthusiasts can find the perfect fit for their playing preferences and lifestyle requirements.
The crown jewel of outdoor recreation lies literally at residents’ doorsteps: direct access to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve trail system. The Lost Dog Trailhead and Sunrise Trailhead provide immediate entry into over 30,000 acres of protected Sonoran Desert landscape, offering everything from gentle nature walks to challenging mountain adventures.
Within the community itself, residents enjoy a beautiful outdoor tennis complex with multiple courts, additional sport courts for tennis and basketball, and a spectacular community spa. The tennis complex features a Ramada available for private parties and social gatherings, creating the perfect venue for both active recreation and community connection.
The McDowell Mountain Regional Park, just minutes away, expands recreational opportunities with additional hiking trails, equestrian paths, and nature programs that showcase the unique flora and fauna of the high Sonoran Desert. The preserve is home to desert tortoises, bobcats, javelinas, and numerous bird species, providing year-round opportunities for wildlife observation and nature photography.
Families in Scottsdale Mountain benefit from access to the highly-rated Scottsdale Unified School District, consistently recognized for academic excellence and innovative programming. Elementary students typically attend Anasazi Elementary School, ranked in the top 5% of all Arizona public schools and located on fifteen picturesque acres abutting the south trailhead of the McDowell Mountain Park Preserve.
Anasazi Elementary serves approximately 420 students in grades Pre-K through 5, with an impressive student-teacher ratio of 14:1. The school has achieved exceptional academic results, with 72% of students achieving math proficiency and 71% achieving reading proficiency – both significantly higher than state averages. The school offers gifted and talented programs, special education services, and comprehensive arts education including music, art, and physical education. Beginning in 4th grade, students can participate in band or strings programs.
Students progress to Mountainside Middle School, serving grades 6-8 with approximately 900 students. The school continues the tradition of academic excellence while providing expanded opportunities for student growth and development. The campus features modern facilities and comprehensive programs designed to prepare students for high school success.
Desert Mountain High School serves as the community’s premier high school destination, celebrating over 30 years of educational excellence. The school offers comprehensive academic programming, extensive extracurricular activities, and Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that prepare students for both college and career success. The diverse student body represents 44 countries and 27 spoken languages, creating a rich multicultural learning environment.
For families seeking private education options, Notre Dame Preparatory High School is conveniently located just five minutes from the community, providing an additional choice for college-preparatory education.
Scottsdale Mountain’s prime location provides convenient access to North Scottsdale’s finest shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations. The nearby McDowell Mountain Marketplace offers a comprehensive selection of retail stores, services, and dining options within minutes of home.
The community’s proximity to established shopping centers ensures residents have easy access to everyday necessities as well as luxury shopping experiences. Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter provide upscale open-air shopping with national retailers, specialty boutiques, and diverse dining options. Scottsdale Fashion Square, one of the Southwest’s premier shopping destinations, offers department stores, luxury brands, and extensive dining options.
Local dining favorites near Scottsdale Mountain include The Vig McDowell Mountain, Freshbox, 18 Degrees, Ciao Grazie, Sophia’s Kitchen, and Casa Mia. These establishments reflect the area’s sophisticated dining culture, offering everything from casual bistro fare to fine dining experiences.
The community’s location also provides easy access to major entertainment and cultural venues. Residents are just minutes from WestWorld, the nationally recognized equestrian center that hosts major events including the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction and Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. The Waste Management Phoenix Open and numerous art festivals throughout the year provide additional entertainment options.
For active lifestyles, the community offers immediate access to hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing in the adjacent preserve lands. Many homes feature private swimming pools, spas, and extensive outdoor living areas that take full advantage of Arizona’s exceptional climate.
Scottsdale Mountain represents the ultimate expression of luxury desert living, where architectural excellence meets natural splendor in one of Arizona’s most prestigious settings. The community’s 24-hour manned gate provides security and privacy, while the extensive amenities and prime location offer convenience and lifestyle enhancement that few communities can match.
As your dedicated real estate professional with West USA Realty, I possess intimate knowledge of Scottsdale Mountain’s various neighborhoods, current market conditions, and the unique lifestyle advantages this exceptional community provides. Whether you’re seeking a spacious family home near top-rated schools, a custom estate with panoramic mountain views, or a luxurious retreat for seasonal living, I’m committed to helping you discover the perfect residence in this remarkable mountain community.
The combination of guard-gated security, world-class amenities, stunning natural beauty, and proximity to all of North Scottsdale’s attractions makes Scottsdale Mountain an ideal choice for those who refuse to compromise on quality and lifestyle. From the moment you drive through the gates, you’ll understand why this community continues to be one of North Scottsdale’s most sought-after addresses.
Ready to explore the exceptional homes available in Scottsdale Mountain? Contact Carl Chapman, Associate Broker with West USA Realty, at 602-617-4440 to schedule your private tour of this exclusive mountain community. Let me help you discover why Scottsdale Mountain represents the pinnacle of luxury desert living in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
Premier builders like Toll Brothers and Custom Home Development have contributed significantly to Scottsdale Mountain's prestigious housing inventory. Current home prices range from $1.2 million for smaller properties to over $5 million for expansive custom estates. The community has demonstrated remarkable value retention, with average home prices appreciating approximately 8% annually over the past decade. Property types primarily consist of single-family custom homes, ranging from 3,000 to over 8,000 square feet of living space. The current market typically maintains limited inventory, with most properties selling within 45 days of listing. Recent sales data indicates strong demand for Scottsdale Mountain properties, with many homes receiving multiple competitive offers. Luxury finishes, mountain views, and pool installations command premium prices in this sought-after community.
Scottsdale Mountain residents benefit from access to the highly-rated Scottsdale Unified School District's award-winning educational institutions. Desert Mountain High School, consistently ranked among Arizona's top public schools, offers extensive Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs. The nearby Copper Ridge School serves K-8 students with innovative STEM programs and consistently exceeds state academic standards. Several prestigious private schools, including Notre Dame Preparatory and El Dorado Private School, provide additional educational options. Local schools offer comprehensive extracurricular activities, from robotics clubs to competitive sports programs, enhancing students' educational experience. Several specialized learning centers in the area provide supplementary education and tutoring services for students seeking additional support.
The renowned Desert Mountain Golf Club offers six championship courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, providing unparalleled golfing experiences. Community residents enjoy access to multiple heated pools, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, and professional tennis courts throughout the development. Miles of maintained hiking and biking trails wind through the community, connecting to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The exclusive Scottsdale Mountain Club provides members with resort-style amenities, including fine dining and social events. Several pocket parks and gathering spaces throughout the community offer perfect settings for family recreation and socializing. The community's strategic design incorporates natural desert landscapes with developed recreational areas, creating a balanced outdoor living environment.
The upscale Scottsdale Quarter, located just minutes away, features premium retailers like Apple, Restoration Hardware, and local boutiques. Market Street at DC Ranch offers an impressive selection of fine dining establishments, including acclaimed restaurants and casual eateries. The nearby Musical Instrument Museum and Desert Botanical Garden provide enriching cultural experiences throughout the year. Local wine bars and artisanal coffee shops create perfect spots for casual meetings or afternoon refreshments. The area's dining scene ranges from authentic Southwestern cuisine to innovative fusion restaurants by award-winning chefs. Entertainment options include outdoor concerts at WestWorld and productions at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.
Major arterial roads like Loop 101 and Pima Road provide quick access to Greater Phoenix metropolitan destinations. Residents typically enjoy a 25-minute commute to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport via convenient highway connections. The community's location offers easy access to Scottsdale Airpark, a major employment center, within 15 minutes. Multiple charging stations throughout the community support the growing number of electric vehicle owners among residents. The city's free trolley service connects Scottsdale Mountain to popular downtown destinations and entertainment districts. Dedicated bike lanes and walking paths promote alternative transportation options throughout the community.
The community maintains a 24-hour security presence with controlled access points and regular patrol services. Scottsdale's police department provides dedicated coverage, contributing to crime rates significantly below national averages. The community's layout incorporates advanced security features, including strategically placed cameras and emergency call boxes. Response times for emergency services average under four minutes due to proximity to local fire and police stations. An active neighborhood watch program enhances community safety through resident participation and communication. The gated entrance system utilizes modern technology to monitor and control access effectively.
Honor Health Scottsdale Thompson Peak Hospital, located minutes away, provides comprehensive medical services and emergency care. Several specialized medical centers offer services ranging from orthopedics to cardiovascular care within a five-mile radius. Mayo Clinic's Scottsdale campus, renowned for exceptional healthcare, is easily accessible from the community. Local wellness centers provide preventive care services, including fitness programs and nutritional counseling for residents. Mental health professionals maintain private practices nearby, ensuring convenient access to comprehensive psychological services. The community's location ensures rapid emergency response times from both public and private medical services.
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers over 200 miles of trails directly accessible from the community. Residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities, from morning hikes to evening stargazing in the desert environment. Multiple community parks feature desert-adapted landscaping and comfortable gathering spaces for social interactions. Rock climbing enthusiasts appreciate proximity to renowned climbing locations in the McDowell Mountains. The community's elevation provides cooler temperatures and spectacular views of the Valley of the Sun. Seasonal activities include guided nature walks, photography workshops, and outdoor fitness classes.
Regular community gatherings foster strong neighborhood connections through social events and holiday celebrations. The active homeowners association organizes numerous events, from wine tastings to outdoor movie nights throughout the year. Residents participate in various clubs and interest groups, from book clubs to hiking groups. Local farmers' markets operate weekly, offering fresh produce and artisanal products from regional vendors. Community volunteer programs connect residents with local charitable organizations and environmental conservation efforts. The neighborhood maintains strong traditions of seasonal celebrations and welcomes new residents warmly.
Scottsdale Mountain enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, with winter highs averaging a comfortable 70 degrees. The elevated location provides slightly cooler temperatures than the valley floor, typically 3-5 degrees lower. Summer evenings offer comfortable outdoor conditions, perfect for al fresco dining and social gatherings. The area receives approximately 7-9 inches of annual rainfall, primarily during dramatic monsoon season displays. Winter months bring perfect conditions for outdoor activities, with daytime temperatures rarely dropping below 60 degrees. The climate supports diverse desert flora and fauna, creating a vibrant natural environment year-round.
Strict architectural guidelines preserve property values while allowing for personalized home designs within community standards. The homeowners association maintains detailed regulations ensuring consistent community appearance and quality of life. Recent zoning protections prevent excessive development, maintaining the area's natural desert character and mountain views. Building codes emphasize energy efficiency and sustainable desert living practices in all new construction and renovations. The community sits outside designated flood zones, with careful engineering preventing erosion and water damage. Environmental protection measures safeguard native plant species and wildlife corridors throughout the development.
Major employers within fifteen minutes include Vanguard, Mayo Clinic, and numerous technology companies in Scottsdale Airpark. The area continues attracting corporate relocations, creating new employment opportunities in various sectors. Recent economic development initiatives have brought additional professional services and healthcare positions to North Scottsdale. The local job market shows consistent growth, with unemployment rates below both state and national averages. Growing tourism and hospitality sectors provide diverse employment opportunities throughout the Greater Scottsdale area. The technology sector's expansion in North Scottsdale creates increasing demand for skilled professionals.
Property taxes remain competitive compared to similar luxury communities in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Home insurance rates benefit from excellent fire protection and security services within the community. Current HOA fees cover extensive community amenities, security services, and common area maintenance. Utility costs reflect energy-efficient home designs and desert-adapted landscaping requirements throughout the community. The area's strong property values have historically provided excellent return on investment for homeowners. Local municipal bonds support infrastructure improvements while maintaining reasonable tax rates.
Scottsdale's city government maintains high standards for public services and infrastructure maintenance. The community benefits from efficient municipal services, including weekly recycling and regular street maintenance. City planning prioritizes sustainable development while preserving natural desert areas around Scottsdale Mountain. Local ordinances protect dark skies, allowing residents to enjoy spectacular stargazing opportunities. The city's parks and recreation department maintains nearby public facilities and natural preserves. Municipal water services ensure reliable delivery while promoting conservation through desert-appropriate landscaping requirements.