Morenci High School

The Carefree Resort Has A Marvelous History

Nestled in the gorgeous Sonoran Desert, just north of Scottsdale for more than 40 years, Carefree Resort & Villas has had an enduring reputation as one of the Valley's most venerated and charming resorts.  Built in the early 1960's, it was the only destination resort in the once-remote area now known as Carefree.

Today, this luxurious resort has been renovated and expanded to retain much of the small-town hospitality and unique Arizona heritage that guests have come to cherish.  For more than 40 years, the Resort has welcomed guests to an exquisite escape to the desert, and a refreshing departure from the everyday experience of nearby Scottsdale lodging and accommodations. 

Black Mountain, located just west of the Resort, rises to nearly 4,000 feet and bears a split personality - the eastern half is light in color and strewn with massive red boulders, while the western half is studded with multiple cacti and exhibits a darker, greenish color.

Just north of Carefree are the Continental Mountains, part of the renowned Tonto National Forest, reaching altitudes of 4,500 feet.  Today, the community of Carefree - with a population of approximately 1,800 - is a unique mix of upscale homes, eclectic shopping boutiques and lush natural desert surroundings, offering a true sense of Arizona and its historic heritage.  The town lies at an elevation of 2,500 feet and is 1,000 feet higher than downtown Scottsdale - allowing for slightly cooler summer temperatures.  The air is clean, the stars are visible at night and there is an air of calm and peace.