Corridor

A term that you may have heard but can't find on any map.  The Cactus Corridor is one of the most coveted "Unofficial Cities" in North Scottsdale. 
Born from a history rooted in horse ranches, and rich in character, the Cactus Corridor was identified by the City of Scottsdale as being a special area in need of preservation as developers sought to buy up ranches and subdivide them, removing the charm and character of the equestrian lifestyle.  Because of the city's intervention, so much of the beauty and elegance of the area still exists, and you can still find horses riding along the paths throughout the area.  You can read about the history, and the City of Scottsdale's preservation plan HERE.
The Cactus Corridor, specifically along Cactus Road, is where you will still find those sprawling lots, and horse properties, but the identified area actually spans from Shea Boulevard North to Thunderbird Road, and then from Pima (along the 101 freeway) East to Frank Lloyd Wright. 
Unofficially, I would also consider the area North of Cactus, and South of Thunderbird, between Hayden and the 101 freeway, to be part of this coveted area.  In this special "Cara Annexed" area, you can find sprawling lots, and horse properties as well, that are reminiscent of the Cactus Corridor  preservation area.