Nestled into the dramatic canyons of the McDowell Mountains and surrounded by the pristine McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Silverleaf stands as one of the most prestigious addresses in the Phoenix Metro area. As an Associate Broker with West USA Realty, I’ve had the privilege of representing discerning clients in this extraordinary community, where luxury living reaches its pinnacle amid some of Arizona’s most breathtaking natural beauty. Masterfully developed by DMB Associates, renowned for creating exceptional luxury communities throughout the Southwest, Silverleaf represents the culmination of visionary planning and meticulous attention to detail.
This exclusive private enclave within the larger DC Ranch master-planned community spans over 2,000 acres and features 736 custom homesites ranging from intimate one-acre estates to sprawling 35-acre mountain retreats. The community’s distinctive Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial architecture creates an impressive presence against the dramatic desert landscape backdrop, while the development’s commitment to sustainable practices ensures the highest standards of luxury residential development in Arizona. Since the Silverleaf Club golf course opened in 2002 and the clubhouse opened in 2004, this remarkable community has continued to evolve while maintaining its unwavering commitment to excellence and exclusivity.
Silverleaf showcases an extraordinary collection of custom estates and luxury residences that exemplify the finest in desert contemporary and Mediterranean-inspired architecture. The community features homesites that range from 1 to 35 acres, with many lots offering spectacular valley views, golf course vistas, or dramatic mountain panoramas. Custom homes and estates in Silverleaf range from luxury villas in the low $1 million range to magnificent elevated estates positioned high on mountain slopes commanding prices exceeding $10 million.
The community includes several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own architectural character and natural setting. Silverleaf Village contains the most expensive real estate in both DC Ranch and Scottsdale, protected by three 24-hour guard-gated entrances that offer residents the utmost privacy and security. The significant elevation changes from the gate at Windgate Pass to the highest lots in the Upper Canyon create diverse building opportunities, from lock-and-leave luxury villas to sprawling custom estates on lots exceeding 10 acres.
The New Home Company recently completed ICON Silverleaf, a luxury collection of 72 contemporary single-story condominiums representing the final opportunity for attached, for-sale homes in Silverleaf. These modern one-story designs feature open floor plans up to 3,174 square feet with two to three bedrooms plus den, and they showcase extensive outdoor living spaces on large patios with semi-private elevator access for added convenience.
Throughout the community, authentic materials including 17th-century limestone and 19th-century wood are found in homes and common areas, reflecting Silverleaf’s commitment to timeless elegance and historical authenticity. Architectural guidelines ensure all residences complement the mountain backdrop while allowing for individual expression and exceptional build quality that has become synonymous with the Silverleaf name.
At the heart of Silverleaf lies The Silverleaf Club, featuring one of Arizona’s most celebrated golf experiences designed by Tom Weiskopf. This par-72 championship golf course winds along 7,322 yards of inspiring terrain through Horseshoe Canyon and Upper Canyon, providing a golfing experience that returns to the golden age of the sport’s origins. The course consistently ranks among Arizona’s top golf destinations, with a slope rating of 149 that places it as the third most challenging course in the Valley.
The course features dramatic elevation changes, clear sight lines, sweeping bunkers, and well-bunkered greens with significant undulations that challenge golfers of all skill levels. TiffEagle grass greens and Bermuda grass fairways ensure optimal playing conditions year-round, while the practice facility rivals the best in the country with abundant landing zones and the unique Dawg House bar located on the driving range.
The 50,000-square-foot Rural Mediterranean-style clubhouse serves as the social heart of the community, featuring world-class spa facilities, resort and lap pools, fully appointed men’s and women’s locker rooms, and both fine and casual dining venues. The Silverleaf Spa, inspired by the ancient labyrinth and designed as a sacred place of self-discovery, combines traditional therapies with innovative techniques to create a unique private destination for wellness and relaxation.
The Silverleaf Club offers two membership categories: Golf Membership, which provides access to the golf course, all facilities, and events; and Club Membership, which includes complete access to the clubhouse amenities and events without golf privileges. Both membership types are offered exclusively to residents of the Silverleaf community, ensuring an intimate and exclusive club experience.
Beyond golf, Silverleaf residents enjoy unparalleled access to outdoor recreation opportunities. The community’s location adjacent to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve provides immediate access to over 30,500 acres of protected desert habitat featuring more than 230 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Popular trails accessible from nearby trailheads include the challenging Tom’s Thumb Trail, the scenic Lost Dog Wash Trail, and the family-friendly Bajada Nature Trail.
The preserve, recognized as the largest urban preserve in the United States, provides habitat for 185 species of birds and offers year-round opportunities for wildlife observation, photography, and nature study. Educational programs and guided naturalist walks are regularly offered by the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, providing residents with opportunities to deepen their understanding of the unique Sonoran Desert ecosystem.
Within Silverleaf itself, residents enjoy beautifully landscaped pocket parks, community gathering spaces, and over 33 miles of biking and walking paths that connect neighborhoods to shopping districts and community amenities without crossing major roads.
Families in Silverleaf benefit from access to some of Arizona’s most highly-rated educational institutions within the Scottsdale Unified School District. Copper Ridge School, located directly across from Silverleaf’s Windgate Pass gate, serves students from kindergarten through 8th grade and has consistently achieved “Excelling” rankings from the Arizona Department of Education.
Copper Ridge Elementary and Middle School features both traditional programs and the specialized Copper Ridge Math and Science Academy, providing enhanced STEM education opportunities for academically motivated students. The school’s location within the DC Ranch master-planned community ensures small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and strong parent involvement that contributes to exceptional academic outcomes.
High school students typically attend Chaparral High School, which offers comprehensive academic programming, extensive extracurricular activities, and Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. The school’s robust fine arts programs, including successful band, theater, choir, and orchestra ensembles, provide numerous opportunities for creative expression and development.
For families seeking private education options, Notre Dame Preparatory High School is conveniently located within close proximity to Silverleaf, providing an additional choice for college-preparatory education with small class sizes and personalized attention.
The area also benefits from proximity to Arizona State University, the University of Arizona, and numerous community colleges, ensuring students have access to world-class higher education opportunities as they progress in their academic careers.
Silverleaf’s location within DC Ranch provides residents with convenient access to three distinctive shopping and dining districts, each featuring architecturally unique buildings that house upscale establishments and everyday conveniences. Market Street at DC Ranch, located on the southeast corner of Pima Road and Thompson Peak Parkway, offers a charming main street ambiance with rustic, small-town appeal.
Market Street is anchored by Safeway (with pharmacy and Starbucks) and features an impressive array of dining options ranging from the elegant Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse to the casual Breakfast Joynt. Additional dining favorites include The Herb Box (renowned throughout the Valley for fresh, healthy ingredients), Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, Jalapeño Inferno, and Living Room Wine Bar. The district also provides essential services including primary care physicians, dentists, veterinary care, and dry cleaning.
DC Ranch Crossing and Canyon Village offer additional retail and dining options, creating a comprehensive lifestyle experience within the community. The proximity to Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter provides access to upscale shopping with national retailers, specialty boutiques, and diverse dining experiences.
For cultural enrichment, Silverleaf residents enjoy proximity to over 100 art galleries, including the renowned Scottsdale Art Walk and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Arts. The community is also conveniently located near Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s UNESCO World Heritage site and National Historic Landmark.
Entertainment options include easy access to WestWorld of Scottsdale, which hosts major events such as the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction and the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. The Waste Management Phoenix Open and numerous art festivals throughout the year provide additional world-class entertainment opportunities.
As part of the broader DC Ranch community, Silverleaf residents have access to exceptional recreational amenities including two community centers with pools, splash pads, fitness facilities, sports courts, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a community-operated playhouse for theatrical performances. The DC Ranch Village Health Club and Spa offers state-of-the-art fitness equipment and classes, while the nearby public spa provides additional wellness services.
The community’s extensive trail network of over 33 miles connects all neighborhoods and amenities without requiring residents to cross major roads, promoting walkability and a strong sense of community connection. Scottsdale police and fire stations located within Market Street ensure rapid emergency response and enhanced security for all residents.
Silverleaf represents more than just a residential community—it embodies a lifestyle of uncompromising luxury, natural beauty, and exclusive amenities that few addresses in Arizona can match. The combination of world-class golf, stunning desert landscapes, architectural excellence, and proximity to Scottsdale’s finest attractions creates an living experience that is truly extraordinary.
As your trusted real estate professional with West USA Realty, I bring extensive knowledge of Silverleaf’s diverse neighborhoods, current market conditions, and the unique lifestyle advantages this exceptional community provides. Whether you’re seeking a custom estate with panoramic mountain views, a luxury villa with golf course frontage, or a modern condominium with resort-style amenities, I’m committed to helping you discover the perfect residence in this remarkable desert sanctuary.
The privacy of three guard-gated entrances, the exclusivity of a members-only championship golf club, and the natural beauty of the surrounding McDowell Sonoran Preserve combine to create a living environment that represents the absolute pinnacle of luxury desert living. From the moment you enter Silverleaf’s gates, you’ll understand why this community continues to attract the most discerning homebuyers from around the world.
Ready to explore the exceptional properties available in Silverleaf? Contact Carl Chapman, Associate Broker with West USA Realty, at 602-617-4440 to schedule your private tour of North Scottsdale’s most prestigious luxury community. Let me help you discover why Silverleaf represents the ultimate expression of sophisticated desert living in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
Distinguished luxury builders like Calvis Wyant and Salcito Custom Homes have established themselves as premier craftsmen within Silverleaf. The community's homes typically range from $4 million to over $20 million, with custom lots starting around $2 million. Property values in Silverleaf have consistently appreciated, showing remarkable resilience even during market fluctuations over the past decade. The community primarily features expansive single-family estates, with lot sizes ranging from one to five acres or more. Current inventory remains limited, with homes typically spending 60 to 90 days on the market before selling. The average price per square foot ranges from $800 to $1,500, reflecting the exceptional quality and demand.
Silverleaf residents have access to the highly-rated Paradise Valley Unified School District, known for its academic excellence. Desert Shadows Elementary and Middle Schools consistently receive high marks for their innovative STEM programs and dedicated faculty. The prestigious Phoenix Country Day School, located nearby, offers an exceptional private education alternative for discriminating families. Local schools provide extensive advanced placement courses and International Baccalaureate programs for academically ambitious students. Several prestigious private tutoring centers in the area offer personalized academic support and test preparation services. The community's proximity to Arizona State University provides convenient access to higher education opportunities.
The Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course at Silverleaf Club stands as one of Arizona's most challenging and scenic championship courses. The 50,000-square-foot clubhouse features world-class spa facilities, multiple dining venues, and extensive fitness facilities for members' enjoyment. Private tennis courts, resort-style pools, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities provide year-round recreational opportunities for residents. The Silverleaf Club offers various membership levels, with full golf memberships being highly coveted and limited in availability. Miles of private hiking and biking trails wind through the community, connecting to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The club's concierge service assists members with everything from dinner reservations to private event planning.
The nearby Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons offer upscale shopping experiences with luxury brands and boutique retailers. DC Ranch Marketplace provides convenient access to high-end grocers, casual dining options, and essential services within minutes. Notable restaurants like Mastro's City Hall Steakhouse and Cafe Monarch offer exceptional fine dining experiences within a short drive. The Musical Instrument Museum and Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West provide enriching cultural experiences nearby. Fashion Square Mall, Arizona's premier shopping destination, lies just fifteen minutes south of the community. The entertainment district of Old Town Scottsdale offers vibrant nightlife, art galleries, and cultural events throughout the year.
The community enjoys excellent access to Loop 101 and Scottsdale Road for convenient navigation throughout the Valley. Private transportation services, including luxury car services and helicopter charters, are readily available for residents. The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport lies approximately thirty minutes away, offering global connectivity for residents. Multiple Tesla charging stations and private charging infrastructure support the community's environmentally conscious residents. The central location provides reasonable commute times to major business districts in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley. Private garages and motor courts accommodate extensive vehicle collections and recreational vehicles with ease.
Silverleaf maintains a private security force providing 24/7 patrol and monitoring throughout the gated community. The Scottsdale Police Department's response times to the area consistently rank among the fastest in the metropolitan region. Advanced security systems, including license plate recognition and surveillance cameras, monitor all community access points. The community's dedicated security team coordinates closely with local law enforcement to ensure resident safety. Silverleaf's crime statistics rank among the lowest in the Phoenix metropolitan area, reflecting its secure environment.
The prestigious HonorHealth Scottsdale Thompson Peak Medical Center provides world-class healthcare services just minutes away. Mayo Clinic's Scottsdale campus, renowned for exceptional medical care, lies within a fifteen-minute drive of the community. Several boutique medical practices offer concierge healthcare services specifically tailored to Silverleaf residents' needs. The community's location ensures rapid emergency response times from both fire and medical services. Multiple wellness centers and specialized medical facilities in the area provide comprehensive healthcare options.
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers over 30,000 acres of protected desert habitat with extensive hiking and mountain biking trails. Residents enjoy priority access to Silverleaf Club's numerous outdoor recreational facilities and programmed activities throughout the year. The community's elevation provides cooler temperatures and stunning views of the Valley's city lights and desert landscapes. Private guides and naturalists are available through the club for personalized desert adventures and nature education. The nearby Verde River provides opportunities for kayaking and fishing within a short drive of home.
The Silverleaf Club hosts an active social calendar featuring wine dinners, holiday celebrations, and special member events. Regular community gatherings, from farmers' markets to art shows, foster a strong sense of connection among residents. The homeowners' association maintains high standards while organizing various social and cultural events throughout the year. Community volunteer opportunities include supporting local charities and participating in environmental conservation efforts. The club's numerous social groups cater to diverse interests, from golf leagues to book clubs.
Silverleaf's elevated location provides slightly cooler temperatures than central Phoenix, typically ranging from 45 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. The community experiences approximately 300 days of sunshine annually, with dramatic monsoon storms during the summer months. Winter temperatures remain mild, allowing year-round enjoyment of outdoor activities and desert living. The desert climate creates spectacular sunsets and maintains the dramatic beauty of the natural landscape surrounding homes.
Strict architectural guidelines ensure the preservation of property values and community aesthetics throughout Silverleaf. The community's master plan includes careful consideration of desert preservation and sustainable development practices going forward. Silverleaf's location outside flood zones and major fault lines provides additional security for property investments. The homeowners' association actively monitors and updates community guidelines to maintain exceptional standards of living.
The Greater Phoenix area continues to attract major corporations, creating numerous executive-level employment opportunities nearby. Scottsdale's thriving tourism and healthcare sectors provide stable economic foundations for the region's continued growth. Several technology companies have established regional headquarters in the area, diversifying the local economy. The community's location provides convenient access to multiple business districts and corporate centers throughout the Valley.
Property taxes in Silverleaf remain competitive compared to similar luxury communities in other major metropolitan areas. The community's strong property values and careful development have historically provided excellent returns on investment. Homeowners' association fees cover extensive community maintenance, security services, and access to various amenities. Utility costs reflect the desert climate, with higher summer cooling expenses offset by minimal winter heating requirements.
The City of Scottsdale provides exceptional municipal services and maintains a AAA bond rating. The local government's commitment to preserving natural desert areas aligns with Silverleaf's environmental stewardship values. Comprehensive city services include regular maintenance of infrastructure, rapid emergency response, and proactive community planning.