On Thursday, January 16, 2025, numerous citizens and town representatives will gather to present a Local Landmarks award in recognition of the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area. The Local Landmarks program, which is managed by Cave Creek Museum, awards community destinations with a brass plaque in celebration of being part of the town’s heritage.
Located along the southern border of the Tonto National Forest, Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area totals more than 2,000 acres. Settled by native tribes dating back to 800 A.D., this land has long been thought of as sacred. In addition to the petroglyphs, creek crossings and pristine flora and fauna, the experiences visitors of all ages get hiking, biking or on horseback are unparalleled.
Previously unincorporated, a development team sought to develop the land into a residential subdivision. When news of this reached town officials, work quickly began to acquire the property and annex the area into the town’s boundaries. With an outpouring of community support as well as support from Maricopa County and the state, the Town of Cave Creek voted to levy a property tax on all property owners in Cave Creek to pay for its share of the land in 2000. Spur Cross is free to enter for all Cave Creek residents and serves as the cornerstone of what makes Cave Creek special.
The 54-year-old museum’s mission is to preserve the artifacts of the prehistory, history, culture and legacy of the Cave Creek Mining District and the Cave Creek/Carefree foothills area through education, research, and interpretive exhibits. The Cave Creek Museum is located at 6140 E. Skyline Drive in Cave Creek, Ariz., 480.488.2764. Open October through May.
