A desert community defined by dramatic granite formations, world-class golf, and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
Everything You Need to Know About Living in The Boulders
The Boulders - Community Overview & Real Estate Guide
The Boulders is one of Arizona’s most iconic desert communities - a private, low-density enclave set among massive granite rock formations in the high Sonoran Desert. Known for its dramatic natural setting, world-class golf, and thoughtfully integrated architecture, homes and amenities are designed to work around the landscape, creating a setting that feels preserved rather than developed.
With access to the renowned Boulders Resort & Golf Club, sweeping desert and boulder views, and a distinctly quiet pace of life, the community appeals to those seeking a refined desert retreat.
Location
Situated on the border of North Scottsdale and the Town of Carefree, The Boulders sits at the edge of the Sonoran Desert, surrounded by protected land and dramatic granite formations. While it offers a secluded, retreat-like setting, the community remains within a short drive of everyday conveniences, including grocery stores, dining, and services in Carefree and Cave Creek.
Distance highlights:
5 minutes to Carefree & Cave Creek
15–20 minutes to North Scottsdale shopping and restaurants
25–30 minutes to Troon & Pinnacle Peak
45 minutes to PHX Airport
Why You’ll Love It
The Boulders combines natural beauty, thoughtful design, and access to elevated amenities - all within a setting that feels grounded and intentional.
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![The Boulders Resort and Spa in Carefree, Arizona]()
Dramatic Desert Landscape
Homes and pathways follow the contours of the land, preserving massive granite formations and native desert.
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![The Boulders golf course in Carefree, Arizona]()
Resort-Level Golf
The Boulders Resort & Golf Club features two championship golf courses that weave through the natural terrain.
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![A home in The Boulders, build into the iconic rocks.]()
Architectural Harmony
Residences emphasize materials and design that blend with the desert palette and rock formations.
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![An aerial shot of The Boulders, showcasing the low population density.]()
Quiet, Low-Density Setting
Neighborhoods are designed for privacy and serenity, with minimal through traffic and a retreat-like feel.
Real Estate Snapshot (2026)
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Types of Homes
The Boulders offers a range of residential properties including single-family homes, casitas, and townhome-style residences - many positioned for views of boulders, desert, or golf.
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Price Range
Homes in The Boulders vary widely based on lot size, view orientation, and design features. Properties here generally range from premium desert residences to higher-end estate homes.
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Investment Appeal
The Boulders remains appealing due to its distinctive natural setting, architectural character, and blend of privacy with resort access.
The Boulders Real Estate Market Trends (2026)
The Boulders occupies a distinct niche within the North Scottsdale and Carefree market, defined by limited scale, controlled development, and long-term ownership patterns. The community’s structure naturally restricts turnover, contributing to constrained inventory and pricing stability relative to surrounding areas.
Supply constraints: Inventory remains limited due to low-density planning, minimal new construction opportunities, and surrounding protected land. Homes that are updated or positioned with clear sightlines to boulder formations or golf areas tend to be especially scarce.
Buyer profile: Demand is driven primarily by buyers seeking established desert communities with privacy and access to golf and resort amenities. This includes second-home buyers, relocating professionals, and long-term owners prioritizing setting and longevity over volume amenities.
Valuation factors: Pricing strength is most influenced by architectural condition, degree of boulder integration, view orientation, outdoor living functionality, and proximity to the golf club or resort amenities.
Market timing: While broader economic conditions affect transaction pace, The Boulders has historically demonstrated resilience due to constrained supply, low speculative turnover, and consistent demand for well-established desert communities.
For monthly Cromford Market Index updates and Greater Phoenix housing trends, visit my Market Report Hub.
Lifestyle Anchors
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Boulders Resort & Spa
Offers dining, spa services, pools, and resort amenities within the community.
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Local Dining & Services
Nearby Carefree and Cave Creek provide additional options for restaurants, shops, and everyday needs.
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The Boulders Club
Features two championship courses set among granite formations and native desert.
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Desert Outdoor Access
Native desert trails, multi-use paths, and preserved land shape daily activities and outdoor pursuits.
Life Around The Boulders
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Schools Near The Boulders
Public (Cave Creek Unified School District)
Black Mountain Elementary
Sonoran Trails Middle School
Cactus Shadows High School
Nearby private options:
Foothills Academy
Dynamite Montessori
Scottsdale Christian Academy
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Outdoor Activities & Recreation
Loads of hiking
Cave Creek Regional Park
Golf at Boulders Resort
Horseback riding at nearby ranches
Photography-friendly overlooks with incredible sunsets
Bartlett Lake - boating, kayaking, paddleboarding
Horseshoe Lake - quieter, more rugged, great for fishing
Tonto National Forest recreation (picnic areas, desert wildlife)
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Local Coffee Shops
Carefree Coffee Roastery - local favorite for quiet mornings and high-quality brews
Grotto Cafe - cozy breakfast spot with great coffee and a relaxed, local vibe
Janey's Coffee Co. & Bodega - great live music in the evening
Black Mountain Cafe & Lounge - relaxed hangout for morning coffee or evening drinks
AJ’s Fine Food - grocery with a fantastic bakery
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Local Dining
10 on-site restaurants
El Encanto - great Mexican food and vibe
Buffalo Chip Saloon and Steakhouse - dance hall, saloon & mini rodeo
Hideaway - biker bar with clubhouse vibe
Raven’s View- wine bar with views
Harold’s Cave Creek Corral- western saloon
Blu Burger Grill- Fantastic burgers
Spotted Donkey Cantina - Mexican restaurant, part of the Boulders
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Shopping & Convenience
Bashas’ Grocery – Close, convenient shopping
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale - spa, dining, views
Cave Creek - local shops, art, western restaurants
Carefree Sundial District - boutiques, weekly markets
Scottsdale Quarter & Kierland Commons (20–25 min)
Local art galleries and small-town events in Carefree
The Summit at Scottsdale – shopping center with Target, Safeway Grocery, dining, fitness, and everyday essentials (5-7 min)
Meet Jadé
My approach is grounded in a deep appreciation for heritage and meaningful relationships. I’m known for discretion, transparency, and thoughtful service. Whether you’re relocating, buying your first home, or searching for a luxury property, I’m here to help you navigate Scottsdale.
Common Questions About The Boulders
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The Boulders is located along the border of North Scottsdale and the Town of Carefree, Arizona, at the edge of the Sonoran Desert. The community is surrounded by protected land and dramatic granite rock formations.
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The Boulders is known for its iconic granite boulders, low-density residential design, and thoughtful integration with the natural desert landscape. It is also home to the Boulders Resort & Spa and the Boulders Golf Club.
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The Boulders is a residential community that includes access to a destination resort. While the Boulders Resort & Spa attracts visitors, residential areas are separate and maintain a quiet, private neighborhood feel.
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The Boulders Golf Club features two championship golf courses set among native desert terrain and granite formations. The courses are designed to follow the natural contours of the land rather than reshape it.
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Life at The Boulders is defined by a quiet pace, preserved desert surroundings, and architectural restraint. Daily life centers around outdoor living, natural views, and a strong sense of privacy rather than commercial activity.