Living in Desert Mountain, AZ, offers more than just sweeping desert vistas and luxury homes — it’s also the gateway to some incredible destinations that make for perfect day trips. Whether you’re in the mood for exploring lively cities, historical sites, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone just a short drive away. Here are five must-see spots, each less than two hours from Desert Mountain, that promise a change of pace and scenery without the need for an overnight stay.
1. Scottsdale: Where Modern Elegance Meets Desert Charm
Just a quick 45-minute drive from Desert Mountain, Scottsdale offers the perfect balance of urban sophistication and Southwestern charm. Known for its vibrant downtown, world-class shopping, and award-winning dining, Scottsdale is a haven for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Spend the day browsing the upscale shops at Scottsdale Fashion Square, or lose yourself in the Old Town district, where art galleries and boutique stores line the streets.
If you're looking to unwind, Scottsdale is also home to some of the country’s most luxurious spas. Enjoy a soothing treatment at the renowned Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort or the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. The town is also a golf lover's paradise, boasting some of the best courses in the region, with views that rival Desert Mountain's own. For a taste of Scottsdale’s rich cultural offerings, visit the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art or catch a performance at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.
If you're looking to unwind, Scottsdale is also home to some of the country’s most luxurious spas. Enjoy a soothing treatment at the renowned Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort or the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. The town is also a golf lover's paradise, boasting some of the best courses in the region, with views that rival Desert Mountain's own. For a taste of Scottsdale’s rich cultural offerings, visit the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art or catch a performance at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.
2. Lake Pleasant Regional Park: A Desert Oasis
Located just under an hour from Desert Mountain, Lake Pleasant Regional Park is the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over 23,000 acres, this desert oasis offers plenty of opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re into boating, kayaking, fishing, or paddleboarding, the sparkling blue waters of Lake Pleasant are inviting year-round.
For those who prefer land-based activities, the park is also crisscrossed with hiking trails, offering varying degrees of difficulty and stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. Wildlife watching is a must here — keep an eye out for bald eagles, wild burros, and even the occasional bobcat. Pack a picnic and enjoy a peaceful day by the water, or rent a boat and explore the lake’s many hidden coves. Lake Pleasant offers an idyllic contrast to the arid surroundings of Desert Mountain and makes for a refreshing and adventurous day trip.
For those who prefer land-based activities, the park is also crisscrossed with hiking trails, offering varying degrees of difficulty and stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. Wildlife watching is a must here — keep an eye out for bald eagles, wild burros, and even the occasional bobcat. Pack a picnic and enjoy a peaceful day by the water, or rent a boat and explore the lake’s many hidden coves. Lake Pleasant offers an idyllic contrast to the arid surroundings of Desert Mountain and makes for a refreshing and adventurous day trip.
3. Phoenix: A Blend of Culture and Modernity
One hour south of Desert Mountain lies Phoenix, Arizona's bustling capital city. Offering a dynamic mix of cultural attractions, fantastic dining, and outdoor experiences, Phoenix is a must-visit for those looking to experience the pulse of the Southwest.
Spend the day exploring the Desert Botanical Garden, home to thousands of species of cactus, trees, and flowers native to the desert. For art lovers, the Phoenix Art Museum showcases a vast collection of works ranging from European Renaissance to contemporary American art. If you’re more interested in history, the Heard Museum offers an extensive collection dedicated to Native American culture and history.
Phoenix is also home to a thriving culinary scene. From trendy rooftop bars to acclaimed restaurants serving up southwestern fusion, you’ll find something to satisfy your palate. For an outdoor adventure, hike Camelback Mountain or South Mountain Park for panoramic views of the city and desert below.
Spend the day exploring the Desert Botanical Garden, home to thousands of species of cactus, trees, and flowers native to the desert. For art lovers, the Phoenix Art Museum showcases a vast collection of works ranging from European Renaissance to contemporary American art. If you’re more interested in history, the Heard Museum offers an extensive collection dedicated to Native American culture and history.
Phoenix is also home to a thriving culinary scene. From trendy rooftop bars to acclaimed restaurants serving up southwestern fusion, you’ll find something to satisfy your palate. For an outdoor adventure, hike Camelback Mountain or South Mountain Park for panoramic views of the city and desert below.
4. Goldfield Ghost Town: Step Back in Time
Just over an hour’s drive from Desert Mountain, Goldfield Ghost Town in Junction, AZ, offers a fascinating glimpse into Arizona’s Wild West history. This restored 1890s gold mining town will transport you back in time with its wooden buildings, old-fashioned saloons, and historic attractions. A visit to Goldfield is more than just a tour — it’s an immersive experience.
Take a ride on the narrow-gauge railroad, explore the underground mine, or pan for gold like the prospectors once did. For those looking for a little thrill, the town’s Superstition Mountain Museum offers ghost tours and historical walks that delve into the area's mysteries and legends.
Goldfield is perfect for families and history buffs alike, offering a fun, educational day trip. After exploring the town, take in the stunning views of the Superstition Mountains, which provide a dramatic backdrop to this charming slice of Arizona’s past.
Take a ride on the narrow-gauge railroad, explore the underground mine, or pan for gold like the prospectors once did. For those looking for a little thrill, the town’s Superstition Mountain Museum offers ghost tours and historical walks that delve into the area's mysteries and legends.
Goldfield is perfect for families and history buffs alike, offering a fun, educational day trip. After exploring the town, take in the stunning views of the Superstition Mountains, which provide a dramatic backdrop to this charming slice of Arizona’s past.
5. Tonto National Forest: Nature’s Playground
At an hour and a half away, Tonto National Forest is the furthest destination on this list but well worth the drive. As one of the largest national forests in the United States, Tonto covers nearly three million acres and offers a diverse array of ecosystems and outdoor activities. Tonto National Forest is a haven for nature lovers, from the lowland Sonoran Desert to the pine-covered highlands.
Visitors can hike, camp, or fish in various locations throughout the forest, or simply enjoy a scenic drive through its winding roads. Some of the most popular spots include the Salt River for tubing and water activities, as well as the Mogollon Rim, which offers breathtaking views from 7,000 feet above sea level. For those looking for a unique experience, check out the Tonto Natural Bridge, believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world.
With its combination of rugged landscapes, abundant wildlife, and recreational opportunities, Tonto National Forest is a perfect day trip for those seeking an escape into nature.
Visitors can hike, camp, or fish in various locations throughout the forest, or simply enjoy a scenic drive through its winding roads. Some of the most popular spots include the Salt River for tubing and water activities, as well as the Mogollon Rim, which offers breathtaking views from 7,000 feet above sea level. For those looking for a unique experience, check out the Tonto Natural Bridge, believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world.
With its combination of rugged landscapes, abundant wildlife, and recreational opportunities, Tonto National Forest is a perfect day trip for those seeking an escape into nature.
Discover Desert Mountain Real Estate with Power+
If the idea of exploring the stunning surroundings of Desert Mountain has sparked your interest, why not consider making this exceptional area your home base? Power+, an expert in Desert Mountain real estate, is here to help you find the perfect property, whether you're looking to buy, sell, or invest. With a deep understanding of the local market and a passion for helping clients achieve their real estate goals, Power+ can guide you every step of the way.
From luxurious homes that blend seamlessly with the desert landscape to investment opportunities that capitalize on the area's growing popularity, Power+ offers unparalleled expertise. Ready to start your Desert Mountain real estate journey? Reach out to Power+ today and discover how to make this incredible community your own.
*Header image courtesy of Unsplash
From luxurious homes that blend seamlessly with the desert landscape to investment opportunities that capitalize on the area's growing popularity, Power+ offers unparalleled expertise. Ready to start your Desert Mountain real estate journey? Reach out to Power+ today and discover how to make this incredible community your own.
*Header image courtesy of Unsplash
