1965 Map of Cave Creek

About this map

The growing desert community of Cave Creek and the planned development of Carefree dominate this mid-1960s survey of the Sonoran landscape. At this time, the transition from old mining claims to modern leisure is visible as the Desert Forest Golf Course and Carefree Airfield sit just miles from historic operations like the Mormon Girl Mine and Phoenix Mine. The rugged topography of Black Mtn and Go John Mtn provides a stark backdrop to the residential expansion moving north from Scottsdale Road. Local history is anchored by the Cave Creek Cemetery and numerous named water sources essential for desert living, including Willow Springs and Grapevine Spring. Further east, the boundary of the Tonto National Forest marks the limit of private development against protected lands, while old Ruins and scattered Jeep Trail paths suggest a long history of exploration throughout the canyons.