Clearwater Hills represents the pinnacle of luxury desert living, perched majestically on the eastern slopes of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve in Paradise Valley, Arizona. This community of approximately 217 custom hillside homes offers unparalleled privacy, breathtaking 360-degree views, and immediate access to some of Arizona’s most spectacular hiking and recreational opportunities.
Established in 1958 and continuing to develop through the decades, Clearwater Hills has maintained its reputation as one of Paradise Valley’s most coveted addresses. The community’s unique positioning creates an interesting jurisdictional arrangement: 203 of the 217 lots are located within a Maricopa County Island surrounded by the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, while the remaining homes fall within Paradise Valley proper. This distinctive location provides residents with the best of both worlds—a Paradise Valley address combined with direct mountain preserve access.
Clearwater Hills attracts Arizona’s most prestigious architects and custom home builders, each contributing to the community’s remarkable architectural diversity. Renowned architect Ivan Shongov, AIA, and the architectural firm Architekshon have created stunning modern masterpieces throughout the community.
PHX Architecture has collaborated with Berghoff Landscaping to create hillside masterpieces that seamlessly integrate with the natural desert terrain. Dwelling Design has contributed modern-transitional estates that capture the essence of contemporary desert living while respecting the mountain preserve environment.
The architectural styles throughout Clearwater Hills range from mid-century modern to Santa Fe adobe and Mediterranean influences, ensuring no two homes are alike. Custom builds and extensive remodels feature slump block construction typical of Arizona’s mid-century era, floor-to-ceiling windows that frame spectacular mountain vistas, and multi-slide glass doors that create seamless indoor-outdoor living experiences.
Home sizes typically range from 2,485 to 8,800 square feet, with most residences situated on lots of at least one acre. Many properties boast sprawling courtyards, separate guest houses, resort-style private yards, and reclaimed wood flooring, creating living spaces that rival the finest resorts while maintaining the intimacy of private residence living.
The crown jewel of Clearwater Hills’ recreational offerings is its unparalleled access to the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, which encompasses over 45 miles of hiking, running, biking, and horseback riding trails. Phoenix was named one of National Geographic’s “Best Hiking Cities,” and residents of Clearwater Hills enjoy front-door access to this outdoor paradise.
The preserve includes 19 different trail options, with the popular Piestewa Peak trails easily accessible from multiple trailheads. The 40th Street Trailhead and 32nd Street Trailhead provide convenient access to trails of varying length and difficulty, from the challenging Summit Trail (#300) to the more moderate Freedom Trail (#302) that encircles the base of Piestewa Peak.
Paradise Valley Country Club sits directly across Tatum Boulevard from Clearwater Hills, offering residents exclusive access to championship golf, tennis courts, a private fitness facility, swimming facilities, and elegant dining options. This proximity to one of Paradise Valley’s most prestigious clubs enhances the community’s appeal and provides additional recreational and social opportunities.
Camelback Golf Club, featuring 36 holes of championship golf, lies within just a few miles of the community. The club’s Arthur Hills-designed Padre Course and Jason Straka-designed Ambiente Course provide world-class golf experiences with the stunning Sonoran Desert as a dramatic backdrop.
Mountain Shadows Golf Club offers an 18-hole par-3 course designed for both serious golfers and those seeking a more relaxed golf experience. The freshly renovated resort provides an ideal blend of recreational excellence and luxury amenities.
Clearwater Hills residents have access to both public and private schools. The community is served by the Scottsdale Unified School District, with students typically attending Kiva Elementary School, Mohave Middle School, and Saguaro High School.
Kiva Elementary School offers a Comprehensive Gifted Program. For current school grades, see the Arizona Department of Education school report cards, and confirm attendance boundaries with the district. The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 14.5 to 1 and serves as the foundation for the Saguaro Learning Community.
Mohave Middle School is a STEM-focused campus, housing the expanded Math and Science Academy that provides specialized course offerings, curriculum pathways, and extracurricular experiences emphasizing rigorous math and science education. Students can accelerate their learning through Honors-level courses and earn high school credits while still in middle school.
Saguaro High School anchors the learning community with its Scottsdale Math and Science Academy, comprehensive Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, and the innovative “Design My Future” career exploration initiative.
Phoenix Country Day School, the Valley’s only Pre-K through 12 independent school, sits conveniently close to Clearwater Hills. Founded in 1961, PCDS has a student-teacher ratio of 7 to 1 and a 100% college acceptance rate.
The school’s 40-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, championship athletics, and a comprehensive arts program that includes visual arts, music, and theater.
Tesseract School provides additional private education options for kindergarten through 10th grade, while numerous other private, charter, and alternative schools are available throughout the Paradise Valley and Scottsdale area.
Clearwater Hills’ strategic location provides residents with convenient access to some of Arizona’s finest shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations. The Arcadia and Biltmore neighborhoods in midtown Phoenix offer boutique shopping, fine dining, and cultural attractions just minutes from the community.
L’Amore Italian Restaurant provides residents with authentic Italian fine dining in an elegant setting with stunning views of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. The restaurant’s patio dining experience allows guests to enjoy exceptional cuisine while gazing at the beautiful desert landscape.
The proximity to Scottsdale provides access to world-class shopping, art galleries, and the vibrant Old Town Scottsdale entertainment district. The Fashion Square and numerous boutique shopping areas offer everything from luxury brands to unique local artisans.
The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley project, planned for resort facilities, fine dining, shopping, and luxury residences, has not opened its resort; its developer filed for Chapter 11 reorganization in November 2025.
Clearwater Hills provides exceptional community amenities through the Clearwater Hills Association, including 24-hour gated entry at the Tatum Gatehouse, seven days a week, 365 days a year. The association also provides concierge services, from dining reservations to tee times, ensuring residents enjoy a resort-style living experience.
Street and common area maintenance are handled by the association, maintaining the community’s pristine appearance and preserving property values. The professional on-site management during the week ensures all community needs are promptly addressed.
Natural desert landscaping throughout the community creates a seamless blend with the mountainous setting, while tree-lined streets welcome residents to their custom hillside homes. The meticulous attention to landscape design preserves the natural beauty while creating an elegant residential environment.
Clearwater Hills offers more than just a prestigious address—it provides a lifestyle that seamlessly blends luxury living with natural beauty and recreational excellence. The combination of custom hillside homes, mountain preserve access, and proximity to world-class amenities creates an environment that offers the very best of Arizona desert living.
Clearwater Hills holds a distinct place among Paradise Valley’s luxury communities. The community has a limited inventory of just 217 homes. For current prices, inventory and days on market in Clearwater Hills, see the live market report on this page, which updates from ARMLS listing data.
Many properties offer spectacular views of Camelback Mountain, Mummy Mountain, and the McDowell Mountains, with city lights twinkling in the distance during evening hours.
The community’s unique positioning provides residents with the rare opportunity to enjoy true desert mountain living while maintaining convenient access to urban amenities, world-class dining, championship golf, and area schools.
Ready to explore homes in Clearwater Hills? Private tours of this guard-gated community are available. To get started, contact Carl Chapman with the Zona Team at West USA Realty: call or text (602) 617-4440 or email chapman@westusa.com.
Clearwater Hills features a collection of custom-built homes, each crafted by the region's most respected luxury home builders. The community's real estate offerings typically range from elegant desert estates to sophisticated contemporary residences designed for modern living. Most properties in Clearwater Hills are single-family residences, designed to take advantage of the stunning mountain and city light views. Recent sales data indicates strong demand for Clearwater Hills properties, particularly among luxury buyers seeking privacy and natural beauty. Custom construction opportunities remain available on select lots, allowing buyers to create their perfect desert sanctuary.
Clearwater Hills residents have access to a range of public and private schools. The community falls within the Scottsdale Unified School District, which operates the area's public schools. Private school options near Clearwater Hills include college preparatory academies and specialized learning centers for gifted students. Local schools offer comprehensive programs in STEM, arts, and athletics, providing students with well-rounded educational opportunities. The area's educational resources extend beyond traditional schooling to include enrichment programs and specialized learning support services. Several private tutoring centers and educational consultants serve the Clearwater Hills community.
The centerpiece of Clearwater Hills' recreational offerings is its proximity to multiple world-class golf courses and country clubs. Residents enjoy access to premium fitness facilities and sports courts, designed to promote an active, healthy lifestyle. The community features thoughtfully designed walking trails that wind through the natural desert landscape, offering stunning views. Private tennis courts and recreational areas provide year-round opportunities for outdoor activities and social gatherings. The community's carefully planned amenities strike a perfect balance between luxury and desert preservation, maintaining the area's natural beauty. Several exclusive country clubs near Clearwater Hills offer additional social and recreational opportunities for residents. The community's amenities program continues to evolve, with recent additions focusing on wellness and outdoor entertainment spaces.
Clearwater Hills offers convenient access to Paradise Valley's finest shopping and dining destinations, including high-end boutiques and galleries. Residents can easily reach the prestigious Scottsdale Fashion Square, featuring luxury retailers and upscale dining establishments within minutes. The nearby Paradise Valley Mall area provides additional shopping options, from national retailers to local specialty stores. Fine dining options abound in the vicinity, with acclaimed restaurants offering everything from contemporary American to international cuisine. The community's location provides easy access to the cultural attractions of both Paradise Valley and Scottsdale. Entertainment venues near Clearwater Hills include performing arts centers, museums, and premium movie theaters. Several local art galleries showcase works by regional and national artists, contributing to the area's cultural vibrancy.
Clearwater Hills enjoys strategic positioning near major transportation arteries, facilitating easy access throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area. Residents can reach Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport within thirty minutes, making travel convenient for business and pleasure. The community's location provides quick access to Loop 101 and State Route 51, connecting to major business districts. Most residents find their commute times to Phoenix's central business district and Scottsdale's commercial centers quite reasonable. The area offers access to rideshare services and professional car services for additional transportation options. The community's well-maintained road network ensures smooth traffic flow and easy navigation throughout Paradise Valley.
Most of Clearwater Hills is an unincorporated Maricopa County island surrounded by the Town of Paradise Valley. A small number of lots are within the Town. Police: In the county area, Maricopa County Sheriff's Office; In the Town of Paradise Valley, Paradise Valley Police Department. Fire and EMS: In the county area, Clearwater Hills Fire District; In the Town of Paradise Valley, Phoenix Fire Department, by contract with the Town. Nearby emergency room: HonorHealth John C. Lincoln Medical Center, 250 E. Dunlap Ave., Phoenix. Service boundaries can change at community edges, so confirm the agencies for a specific address with Maricopa County or the Town of Paradise Valley. For police reports and statistics, contact the police department or sheriff's office directly.
Several premier medical facilities serve the Clearwater Hills area, including world-class hospitals and specialty care centers. HonorHealth Scottsdale Thompson Peak Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services just minutes from the community. Residents have access to numerous private medical practices, offering specialized care and concierge medical services. The area features multiple urgent care centers and specialty clinics for convenient healthcare access. Local wellness centers offer preventive care services and alternative health treatments for residents.
Clearwater Hills residents enjoy unparalleled access to outdoor recreation, with numerous hiking and biking trails nearby. The community's location provides easy access to the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and Camelback Mountain for outdoor adventures. Natural desert landscaping throughout the community creates a serene environment for daily walks and outdoor activities. Residents can enjoy year-round outdoor living, thanks to the area's favorable climate and thoughtful community design. The nearby Desert Botanical Garden offers educational programs and seasonal events celebrating the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. Multiple parks and preserves within easy reach provide additional opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation.
Clearwater Hills fosters a strong sense of community through regular social events and gatherings throughout the year. The community's homeowners association organizes seasonal celebrations and social functions that bring neighbors together. Residents can participate in various local clubs and interest groups, from wine tasting to desert gardening. The nearby Paradise Valley Country Club hosts numerous social events and networking opportunities for members. Community volunteers organize charitable events and fundraisers, supporting local causes and strengthening neighborhood bonds. Regular HOA meetings keep residents informed and involved in community decisions and developments.
Clearwater Hills enjoys the characteristic sunny climate of Paradise Valley, with over 300 days of sunshine annually. Winter temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to low 70s, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Summer months bring warm temperatures, balanced by low humidity and pleasant morning and evening conditions. The community's elevation provides slightly cooler temperatures compared to central Phoenix, enhancing comfort year-round. Rainfall averages about eight inches annually, primarily during the summer monsoon season and winter months. The area's climate supports a variety of desert-adapted landscaping and outdoor lifestyle opportunities throughout the year.
Clearwater Hills maintains strict building codes and architectural guidelines to preserve the community's premium character and value. The homeowners association actively manages development standards to ensure consistency with the community's established aesthetic. Local zoning regulations protect residential privacy while maintaining the area's natural desert character and views. The community lies outside major flood zones and maintains comprehensive emergency preparedness plans. Building restrictions help protect homes from potential natural hazards while preserving the desert environment. Recent updates to community guidelines reflect evolving needs while maintaining high standards for development.
The Paradise Valley area continues to attract significant business investment, supporting strong employment opportunities for residents. Major employers in healthcare, technology, and hospitality sectors provide diverse career options within easy reach. The local economy benefits from steady growth in both traditional and emerging industries across the Phoenix metropolitan area. Several corporate headquarters and regional offices operate nearby, creating professional opportunities for residents. The area's strong tourism industry contributes to economic stability and business growth throughout the year. Recent economic development initiatives have attracted new businesses and investments to the Paradise Valley region.
For a specific home's property tax, look up the parcel on the Maricopa County Treasurer's website. The community's strong property values and careful management contribute to stable long-term investment potential for homeowners. The homeowners association maintains transparent fee structures and careful financial management of community resources. Insurance rates benefit from the area's low risk factors and excellent emergency services coverage. Local financial institutions offer specialized lending programs for luxury properties in the Clearwater Hills area.
Paradise Valley's municipal government provides responsive service and maintains high standards for community development and preservation. The town council actively engages with residential communities like Clearwater Hills on planning and development matters. Local services include regular maintenance of public areas and efficient waste management programs. The municipal government maintains strong financial management practices, supporting stable property values and community services. Paradise Valley's commitment to preserving its unique character aligns well with Clearwater Hills' community values. Public service departments maintain dedicated liaison programs to address community needs and concerns efficiently.