Homesteading the Canyon

Dove Mountain is a special place for visitors and residents alike. Guided by an historic legacy of celebrating and respecting the land, the master-planned community integrates the beauty of the Sonoran Desert with more than 50 miles of trails, 81 pristine holes of golf and the luxury of resort-style living.

Discovering a very special place

Ninety-three years ago, Eugene “Cush” Cayton laid claim to one of the most stunning tracts of land at the base of the Tortolita Mountains, just north of Tucson.

Cush had come to Arizona by way of Missouri seeking a climate that would improve his health like so many early and current area visitors. After arriving, Cayton lived and worked at Sabino Canyon’s historic Flying V Guest Ranch. It wasn’t long before he was hooked. He fell in love with the Sonoran Desert and secured a homestead in hopes of raising cattle and building his own ranch.

The 1,350-acre claim was located at the base of Tortolita Mountains and extended nearly three miles into picturesque Ruelas Canyon.

During the next 20 years he and his wife Inez would raise two daughters as they built their ranch amidst the stunning setting. 

The legacy begins

The Caytons fell in love with the sights, sounds and scents of their cherished piece of Sonoran Desert paradise and wanted any future area development to preserve the breathtaking views and natural landscapes.

After nearly six decades on the land, Cush and Inez sought out David Mehl and his brother George of Cottonwood Properties to create a community that celebrated and respected the land they so loved.

As Mehl’s son Carson tells it, “Both Cush and my father had a deep respect for the desert and shared a passion for the peacefulness and the incredible views the Sonoran Desert provides.” 

Mehl said Cayton and his father had many meetings before ultimately transferring the property.

The Caytons’ land plus roughly 4,650 acres would become the coveted Dove Mountain community.

Dove Mountain continues the legacy

Today, Dove Mountain is home to The Ritz Carlton, Dove Mountain Resort & Spa, world-class dining, championship golf courses and beautiful luxury homes — all within an unparalleled natural setting with thousands of acres of desert preserved forever.