Cave Buttes Recreation Area: A Desert Escape
Explore rugged trails and scenic desert landscapes at Cave Buttes Recreation Area in North Phoenix, a haven for outdoor adventure.
Cave Buttes Recreation Area, located in North Phoenix, offers a blend of rugged desert terrain and outdoor activities. Once part of the Phoenix park system, it now provides hiking, biking, and off-roading opportunities in a scenic setting.
A brief summary to Cave Buttes Recreation Area
- N 7th St & E Happy Valley Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85024, US
- +1602-262-6696
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring plenty of water, especially during hot months, as the desert climate can be harsh.
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking on rocky and uneven terrain.
- Check for trail closures or restrictions, especially during extreme heat warnings.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Phoenix, head north on AZ-51. Merge onto Loop 101 East. Take the Cave Creek Road exit and head north for approximately 4 miles to Jomax Road. The entrance to Cave Buttes Recreation Area is located just west of the intersection of Cave Creek Road and Jomax Road. Parking is available at designated areas within the venue. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
From Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, take the Valley Metro Rail to 19th Ave/Dunlap. From there, take the Route 90 bus towards Dunlap Ave/Cave Creek Rd. From the bus stop, a taxi or rideshare is required to reach the recreation area. A one-ride fare on Valley Metro is $2. A taxi from the bus stop to Cave Buttes Recreation Area will cost approximately $35-$55.
Discover more about Cave Buttes Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Apache Wash Trail Head
6.0 km
Explore scenic hiking and biking trails at the Apache Wash Trailhead, a gateway to the beautiful Sonoran Desert Preserve in North Phoenix.
McGill Homestead
11.1 km
Discover Glendale's heritage at McGill Homestead, a tranquil historical landmark with scenic views of Adobe Dam and surrounding mountains.
Get Ghosted Phoenix
13.6 km
Uncover the haunted history of Phoenix with Get Ghosted Phoenix, where thrilling ghost tours reveal the city's mysterious past.
Kierland Village Center
13.8 km
Explore Kierland Village Center in Scottsdale for a unique blend of shopping, dining, and outdoor entertainment in a picturesque setting.
The Landmark
14.4 km
Experience luxury living in Scottsdale's Kierland neighborhood at The Landmark, offering upscale amenities and convenient access to premier shopping and dining.
Kierland Commons
14.7 km
Experience upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment in a vibrant, open-air setting at Kierland Commons in North Scottsdale, Arizona.
The Flying V Cabin
14.9 km
Step back in time at the Flying V Cabin, a preserved relic of Arizona's Wild West days and the infamous Pleasant Valley War.
Scottsdale Quarter
15.1 km
Experience Scottsdale's premier shopping destination with upscale boutiques, diverse dining, and vibrant entertainment in an open-air setting.
Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum
15.2 km
Step back into Arizona's past at Pioneer Living History Museum: Explore historic buildings, interact with costumed interpreters, and relive the Wild West.
Anthem Veterans Memorial
18.8 km
A stunning Arizona landmark honoring the U.S. Armed Forces, with a unique solar spotlight on Veterans Day. A place for reflection and respect.
Norman Lykes House
19.6 km
Experience Frank Lloyd Wright's last residential masterpiece, the Circular Sun House, nestled in the heart of Phoenix's scenic Biltmore Area.
Glendale Historical Society
19.7 km
Explore Glendale's past with the Glendale Historical Society: preserving local history through education, preservation, and community engagement.
Sahuaro Ranch Park
19.8 km
Discover Glendale's hidden gem: a historic ranch with lush gardens, preserved buildings, and playful peacocks. A unique blend of history and recreation.
Glendale Arizona Historical
20.8 km
Preserving and promoting the vibrant history of Glendale, Arizona, through artifacts, archives, and research since 1973.
Spur Cross Ranch Conservation
21.8 km
Explore the rugged beauty and rich history of the Sonoran Desert at Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area in Cave Creek, Arizona.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arizona Tactical Adventures/Hollywood Combat Adventures
4.5 km
Discover the excitement of tactical shooting at Arizona Tactical Adventures, the ultimate destination for adrenaline seekers and firearms enthusiasts in Phoenix.
Sonoran Preserve -Desert Vista Trailhead
5.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoran Preserve, a natural haven in Phoenix, Arizona, perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and tranquility.
Panino
8.8 km
Discover Panino, a culinary treasure in Phoenix offering gourmet sandwiches and a delightful dining atmosphere amidst the beautiful desert landscape.
Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
9.4 km
Experience the ultimate summer adventure at Hurricane Harbor Phoenix, a premier water park with thrilling rides and family fun in Glendale, Arizona.
Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve
10.2 km
Explore ancient petroglyphs and immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the Sonoran Desert at Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve.
Cave Creek Regional Park
12.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Cave Creek Regional Park, Arizona's ultimate outdoor adventure destination.
Thunderbird Conservation Park
12.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Thunderbird Conservation Park, a premier nature preserve in Glendale, Arizona.
Kierland Park
13.4 km
Discover the beauty of Kierland Park in Scottsdale, Arizona - a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and relaxation in an urban setting.
Frank Lloyd Wright Spire
14.1 km
Explore the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire in Scottsdale, AZ, a stunning sculpture reflecting the genius of organic architecture amidst the beauty of the desert.
The Promenade Scottsdale
14.7 km
Experience the lively ambiance of The Promenade Scottsdale, where shopping, dining, and entertainment converge in a vibrant outdoor setting.
The Mission Kierland
14.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Latin America at The Mission Kierland, a must-visit dining gem in Scottsdale's Kierland Commons.
TPC Scottsdale
15.2 km
Experience world-class golf at TPC Scottsdale, a premier golf course in Arizona known for its stunning scenery and the iconic Waste Management Phoenix Open.
Su Vino Winery
16.2 km
Discover the essence of Arizona's wine culture at Su Vino Winery, where every sip tells a story of craftsmanship and passion.
Cave Creek Museum
16.2 km
Explore the captivating history of Arizona at the Cave Creek Museum, where local artifacts and engaging exhibits bring the past to life.
Dreamy Draw Recreation Area
16.4 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and stunning views of Dreamy Draw Recreation Area in Phoenix, Arizona – a must-visit destination for outdoor lovers.
Essential places to dine
Comicx Restaurant Bar & Store
7.8 km
Experience the fusion of culinary delights and comic book culture at Comicx Restaurant Bar & Store in Phoenix - where every meal tells a story!
The Sicilian Butcher
11.3 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at The Sicilian Butcher in Phoenix – where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes for an unforgettable meal.
Different Pointe of View
13.2 km
Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine with breathtaking views at Different Pointe of View in Phoenix's North Mountain Village.
Oregano's
13.8 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Oregano's in Phoenix – where every pizza tells a story!
Persian Room Fine Dining
13.8 km
Discover exquisite Persian cuisine at Persian Room Fine Dining in Scottsdale - where tradition meets luxury in every bite.
LongHorn Steakhouse
13.9 km
Indulge in mouthwatering steaks and traditional American cuisine at LongHorn Steakhouse in Paradise Valley – where flavor meets comfort.
TORO
14.2 km
Experience exquisite Latin cuisine at TORO in Scottsdale - where tradition meets contemporary flair in every dish.
The Capital Grille
14.2 km
Experience unparalleled fine dining at The Capital Grille in Scottsdale, featuring exquisite steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine selection.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant, Bar & Store
14.6 km
Experience island-inspired dining at Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar in Scottsdale – where culinary delights meet stylish shopping.
Mastro's Ocean Club
14.6 km
Experience fine dining at Mastro's Ocean Club with exquisite steaks and seafood amidst stunning ocean views in Scottsdale.
Tocaya Modern Mexican
14.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of modern Mexican cuisine at Tocaya in Scottsdale—where health meets authenticity in every delicious dish.
The Greene House
14.7 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine at The Greene House in Scottsdale with diverse options including gluten-free and seafood specialties.
North Italia
14.7 km
Discover North Italia in Scottsdale: A Culinary Journey through Authentic Italian Flavors with Exquisite Dining Experience.
Bar NoRTH
14.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and inviting atmosphere at Bar NoRTH in Scottsdale's Kierland Commons – a must-visit culinary destination.
Postino Kierland
14.7 km
Discover Postino Kierland: A vibrant restaurant offering exquisite brunches and fine wines in the heart of Scottsdale's Kierland Commons.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifted Az
6.6 km
Discover unique gifts and expertly crafted gift baskets at Gifted Az, the perfect stop for memorable souvenirs in Phoenix, Arizona.
Flerish Thrift + Gift, Cave Creek Rd.
12.2 km
Explore Flerish Thrift + Gift in Phoenix for unique treasures, vintage clothing, and delightful gifts in a charming thrift store atmosphere.
Brass Armadillo Antique Mall - Phoenix
14.0 km
Explore a vast collection of antiques, collectibles, and vintage finds at Brass Armadillo Antique Mall, a hidden gem in Phoenix, Arizona.
Pretty Please Boutique
14.0 km
Explore Pretty Please Boutique in Scottsdale for unique women's clothing, stunning jewelry, and delightful gifts that capture the essence of Arizona.
Gift-ology
14.5 km
Explore Gift-ology in Scottsdale, AZ for an exquisite selection of unique gifts and memorable souvenirs, perfect for any occasion.
Chico's
14.7 km
Explore Chico's in Scottsdale for stylish women's clothing, from trendy dresses to chic accessories, perfect for any occasion.
J.Jill
14.7 km
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Johnny Was
14.7 km
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Signatures Gifts
14.7 km
Shop at Signatures Gifts in Glendale, AZ for unique treasures, handcrafted items, and a taste of local artistry.
Sundance Catalog Kierland Commons
14.7 km
Explore unique fashion and exquisite jewelry at Sundance Catalog Kierland Commons, a must-visit shopping destination in Scottsdale, Arizona.
EILEEN FISHER
14.7 km
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Soft Surroundings
14.8 km
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Splendid
14.8 km
Discover the latest fashion trends for the whole family at Splendid, Scottsdale's premier clothing store in the heart of Kierland Commons.
EVEREVE
14.9 km
Explore EVEREVE, a chic women's clothing boutique in Scottsdale, offering trendy styles and fashion-forward accessories in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
White House Black Market
14.9 km
Discover women's chic fashion and accessories at White House Black Market, your go-to destination for stylish clothing in Scottsdale.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Whining Pig Desert Ridge
8.1 km
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Lookout Tavern
8.1 km
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Cactus Tavern
12.7 km
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Brittlebush Bar & Grill
14.1 km
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The Plaza Bar
14.2 km
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Waltz & Weiser Whiskey Bar and Cantina
14.4 km
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Westin Kierland Scotch Library
14.4 km
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Sorso Wine Room
15.0 km
Discover the exquisite taste of wines and gourmet small plates at Sorso Wine Room in Scottsdale, Arizona—a wine lover's paradise.
The Living Room Wine Cafe & Lounge
15.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines, delicious brunch, and exquisite sushi in the heart of Scottsdale at The Living Room Wine Cafe & Lounge.
Copper Door Bar
15.7 km
Discover the vibrant Copper Door Bar in Glendale, AZ, a perfect spot for affordable drinks, friendly vibes, and lively entertainment.
Kimmyz On Greenway Rock & Roll Bar & Grill
15.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kimmyz On Greenway, where delicious American cuisine meets live rock music in Glendale, Arizona.
Tonto Bar & Grill
16.2 km
Experience the best of American and Southwestern cuisine at Tonto Bar & Grill, where flavor meets breathtaking views in Cave Creek, Arizona.
Buffalo Chip Saloon and Steakhouse
17.1 km
Discover Buffalo Chip Saloon and Steakhouse in Cave Creek, Arizona – a vibrant barbecue spot with live music and thrilling rodeo events.
Other Room
17.1 km
Experience the thrill of live sports and craft cocktails at The Other Room, Glendale's beloved sports bar and cocktail lounge.
The 44 Sports Grill & Nightlife
17.2 km
Dive into an unforgettable experience at The 44 Sports Grill & Nightlife, where American cuisine meets live music and vibrant nightlife in Glendale.
