Desert Cliffs was developed by UDC Homes from 1998 ~ 2000 and consists of 178 improved lots of which 101 are single story and 77 are multi story and 147 (83%) have pools. The average square footage is 1,779 and the average lot size is 5,472. This is a cozy gated community and is surrounded by a desert oasis, it boast a view of either the beautiful desert or the spectacular city lights of the valley below. Desert Cliffs is surrounded by endless miles of recreational walking & jogging trails. Desert Cliffs residents can walk to the community park where there is tennis, basketball and grassy playground and heated pool and spa. It is also with walking distance to Desert Canyon Center, which features a variety of shops and restaurants.

Schools in McDowell Mountain Ranch are Desert Canyon Elementary School, Desert Canyon Middle School and Saguaro High School. Some students attend other local schools through open enrollment; they are Copper Ridge Middle School, Chaparral High School and Desert Mountain High School. There are a variety of private school choices such as Notre Dame Preparatory High School and Scottsdale Christian Academy.