Cave Creek History

Cave Creek Celebrates 40th Anniversary With 156-Years of History

Cave Creek, founded in 1870, began as a mining and ranching community and served as a stop for the U.S. Cavalry. Today, the town proudly showcases its Western heritage, maintaining its "Old West" appearance and charm while offering boutique shopping, art galleries, unique restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

The town will celebrate its 40th Anniversary of incorporation in 2026 after years of striving to maintain its independent character. Residents agreed to incorporate on July 6, 1986. In addition to its iconic charm, Cave Creek is a destination for some of the most remote and rugged hiking in the Phoenix metro area. Visitors can experience native plants and wildlife at Cave Creek Regional Park, which is part of the Maricopa County Parks system.

Cave Creek is also celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, which offers numerous miles of hiking trails. These range from easy walks along the creek on the Dragonfly Trail to more challenging treks up Elephant Mountain. Another experience for visitors is the Jewel of the Creek Preserve, a desert oasis filled with towering cottonwood and willow trees along Cave Creek, bordering the Conservation Area. The year-round presence of water supports a myriad of plant and animal species. Many visitors opt for horseback riding to explore the desert, while others use mountain bikes to navigate the rugged terrain and enjoy the spectacular views. The trails in Cave Creek provide physical challenges and breathtaking scenery for everyone.

Residents of Cave Creek proudly refer to themselves as "Creekers." This community is diverse, comprising artists, writers, cowboys, retirees, snowbirds, and working professionals. Where else in Arizona can you find an Italian sports car parked next to a '57 Chevy, a new Corvette, a Harley-Davidson, a pickup truck, and a horse? It's what makes Cave Creek a unique Western town like no other.

The Carefree Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce provides an overview of the community's history. READ