Fountain Hills and Cave Creek: The Valley's Wild Side

Head northeast or north from Scottsdale and the city lights fade fast. Fountain Hills and Cave Creek are two of the Valley's most distinctive towns: one known for a giant fountain and some of the darkest skies near Phoenix, the other for its Old West spirit and rugged desert trails. Both make great day trips, and both are wonderful places to stay if you want space, quiet and big views.

Fountain Hills: the fountain and the stars

Built in 1970 by Robert McCulloch, the fountain rises from a concrete water lily sculpture in a lake at the heart of Fountain Park. On a normal day it reaches about 330 feet, and on special occasions it can hit 560 feet, taller than the Washington Monument.

• When to see it. The fountain runs for about 15 minutes every hour on the hour, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
• Watch the wind. If gusts in the park top 10 miles per hour, the pump may shut off automatically, so a calm morning is your best bet.
• Holiday colors. It turns emerald green for St. Patrick's Day and red, white and blue for the town's Fourth of July celebration.
• Where to watch. Fountain Park, near 16705 E. Avenue of the Fountains, wraps around the lake. Bring a picnic and catch two shows.

A real dark sky town

Fountain Hills was named the world's 17th International Dark Sky Community, a recognition for towns that work to protect the night sky with thoughtful outdoor lighting. On a clear night you can see far more stars here than in central Phoenix. Step outside after dinner, give your eyes 15 minutes to adjust, and look east over the mountains.

Cave Creek: the Old West, still kicking

Cave Creek, north of Scottsdale, wears its Western roots proudly. The main street is lined with saloons, cowboy bars, galleries and shops, and on weekends you are as likely to see a horse as a sports car. It is a fun place for lunch, live music and a little two-stepping, and it pairs nicely with an afternoon in neighboring Carefree.

Spur Cross: water, history and rock art

Just north of town, Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area protects 2,154 acres of desert along Cave Creek. Maricopa County Parks operates it, and the standard entry fee is $3.

• Ancient history. The area holds nearly 90 documented archaeological sites from the Hohokam people, who lived here roughly A.D. 500 to 1250, including petroglyphs scattered across the landscape.
• Mining history. Several historic mines, including the Phoenix and Maricopa mines, dot the area.
• Trails for everyone. Eight trails welcome hikers, bikers and horseback riders, and a segment of the 315-mile Maricopa Trail passes through.
• Respect the past. Look at rock art, but never touch it or climb on archaeological sites.

Staying out this way

• Space and quiet. Homes here often come with bigger lots, mountain views and darker nights.
• Plan your drives. Old Town Scottsdale is a longer drive than from central neighborhoods, so group your errands and dinners.
• Bring layers. Desert nights cool off quickly, especially from fall through spring. Our weather by month guide has the averages.
• Explore more. Pair a visit with our day trips guide or a hike from our trail guide.

Sources checked November 4, 2026: Experience Fountain Hills (fountain facts and schedule), DarkSky International (Fountain Hills designation), Town of Cave Creek (Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area). Confirm fees and hours before you go.