If you’re planning a trip through southeastern Arizona or just looking to understand the distance between Bylas and San Carlos, you’re in the right place. These two small towns offer more than just miles on the map they represent a gateway to Native American history, untouched desert beauty, and peaceful road trip routes. Whether you’re a traveler, a local commuter, or someone scouting road trip ideas, this article breaks down everything you need to know about the journey from San Carlos to Bylas and vice versa.
How Far Is Bylas From San Carlos?
The distance between Bylas and San Carlos is approximately 27 miles if you’re driving along US-70. In a straight line, the two towns are about 23.72 miles apart. This makes for a quick and easy drive—just around 29 minutes when traffic is light and conditions are normal. The route is straightforward, mostly following the scenic US-70 highway, and it’s the fastest and most efficient way to travel between the two locations.
What to Expect on the Drive
The route between Bylas and San Carlos is simple but scenic. You’ll travel through the high desert, surrounded by distant mountains and wide-open skies. There’s a peaceful calm that settles in as you cruise past these rural communities. The halfway point is located near coordinates 33.261250, -110.297859, almost precisely in the middle of the two towns. It’s a good point to pull over, stretch your legs, and take in the natural surroundings.
Gas Costs and Travel Efficiency
If you’re wondering about fuel expenses, here’s a breakdown:
- A vehicle with average fuel efficiency (24.9 MPG) will consume approximately 1.09 gallons of gas for the trip.
- Based on current gas prices (around $3.38/gallon as of April 2025), the estimated cost to drive from San Carlos to Bylas is about $3 to $5.
- The environmental impact of this trip includes around 21.28 pounds of CO₂ emissions, or about 0.79 pounds per mile.
These numbers make this route ideal for budget-conscious travelers or anyone simply commuting between the towns.
Time Zone and Weather Conditions
Both San Carlos and Bylas lie in the Mountain Standard Time (MST) zone, so there’s no need to worry about time changes during your drive.
In terms of weather, both towns experience similar conditions throughout the year. Typical mid-April forecasts show temperatures ranging from highs around 31°C (88°F) during the day to lows around 14–16°C (57–60°F) at night. Rain chances are low, though occasional spring showers can roll through. Wind conditions may vary slightly, with light breezes common across the desert flats.
Lodging and Amenities Near Bylas
While the towns themselves are small and rural, you can still find decent accommodations and points of interest nearby. Within an hour’s drive from Bylas, here are a few lodging options and places to explore:
- Comfort Inn and Suites Thatcher
- Springhill Suites by Marriott Thatcher
- Lexington Pines Resort, LLC
- Best Western Desert Inn
For nature lovers, don’t miss:
- Frye Mesa Reservoir
- Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness
- Riggs Flat Campground
- The Gila Valley LDS Temple
These locations provide a great mix of outdoor adventure and quiet retreats, perfect for extending your road trip or weekend getaway.
Nearby Cities and Quick Trips
Looking to explore beyond San Carlos and Bylas? Here are some cities you can reach in under an hour from Bylas:
- Fort Thomas – 12 minutes away
- Peridot – 25 minutes away
- Pima – 26 minutes away
- Globe – 46 minutes away
- Safford – 40 minutes away
- Claypool – 51 minutes away
These towns offer local dining, parks, historical landmarks, and unique community events that can enrich your road trip experience.
Rental Cars and Road Trip Flexibility
If you’re not traveling in your own car, rental options are available in or near San Carlos. Prices are competitive, starting around:
- $14/day for small cars
- $18/day for intermediate models
- $24/day for full-size cars
- $28/day for SUVs
- $40/day for vans
Renting a car allows you to travel on your own terms and explore the smaller desert towns at your leisure.
Public Transport Alternatives
For travelers coming from further away—like Phoenix—there are several transportation options:
- Greyhound Bus: A daily bus connects Phoenix to Peridot (close to San Carlos), taking around 3 hours and 39 minutes.
- Driving: If you’re coming from Phoenix, the drive to San Carlos takes about 3 hours and 18 minutes and covers roughly 216 kilometers (134 miles).
- Flight Option: Although not common, some travelers opt to fly into nearby Safford Municipal Airport and then drive or catch a ride into San Carlos or Bylas.
Final Thoughts
The distance between Bylas and San Carlos might not be great in miles, but the drive offers a glimpse into the quiet, rugged charm of southeastern Arizona. With its affordable travel costs, minimal traffic, and picturesque desert landscape, this short trip is perfect for both locals and visitors.
Whether you’re just making a quick commute, planning a detour from a longer road trip, or scouting out the area for your next adventure, this route delivers both convenience and character. Take your time, enjoy the view, and don’t forget to explore the hidden gems just beyond the highway.
