Apache Junction to Phoenix Airport Shuttle
Round Trips Save You 10% San Tan Valley airport shuttle to Phoenix
How is Your Service Different?
- Any Address - We pick you up at your home, hotel or PHX.
- Better - most rides are non-stop in a nice car.
- Flexible - we pick you up on your schedule 24/7.
- Safer - we don't leave you at a bus stop and we have better drivers.
- Faster - most rides take half the time and it's just you in the vehicle.
- More Convenient - door to door and no need to arrange or pay for other companies to get home.
- Affordable - once you add it all up, it's the same price.
Our Daily Schedule
What is your daily schedule?
We pick you up on your schedule 24/7. Our professional drivers are normally 5-10 minutes early at your home, or right on time at the Sky Harbor. You get to pick the time we pick you up.
What is my pickup time at the airport?
We normally pick you up 30 minutes after your plane lands for domestic flights, or 45 minutes after for international flights.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
Pickup times automatically adjust to 30 minutes after you land if your flight is delayed for domestic flights, or 45 minutes after you land for international flights.
What happens if my flight arrives early?
Call or send us a text if you want us to pick you up early, and we will let your driver know that you are ready to be picked up. Otherwise, we will pick you up at the scheduled time on your reservation.
How soon should I make a reservation?
Although there is no set rule that prevents you from booking an Apache Junction to Phoenix Shuttle last minute, it's a good idea to make your reservation as soon as possible to make sure a driver is available and prevent any delays.
How long does it take to go from Phoenix or Apache Junction?
Trips to and from Apache Junction in normal traffic are about 40 minutes versus an hour and a half on the bus or a shuttle with a bunch of people. Rush hour will normally add 15-45 minutes (30 minutes on the average).
What time should I be picked up?
2 hours and 15 minutes before is normally enough time. PHX recommends you to be there 2 hours early to get through security and to your plane. Boarding usually starts 30 minutes before your plane takes off. However, one hour and thirty minutes is normally enough time. So if the drive from Apache Junction to Phoenix takes about 40 minutes, then 2 hours and 15 minutes before your flight takes off is normally good.
Our Better Drivers
Who are your drivers?
Most of our shuttle drivers have been driving professionally with the public for more than 10 years. They have excellent people skills and are usually very knowledgeable about the area (what to do, best restaurants, history and attractions). Some shuttle drivers are also professional tour guides that go to the Grand Canyon, Apache Junction, Phoenix, and many other destinations.
We have high standards for our shuttle drivers including safety, reliability and customer service. They are very helpful with bags. They get the door for you. Everyone goes through extensive background checks with Sky Harbor in order to pick up passengers.
We also train them by driving them through PHX, explaining all the rules, and showing them where to pick people up and drop people off.
Our Great Company
With more than 100,000 customers and more than 5 years in business, Airport Shuttle of Phoenix owns Apache Junction Shuttle, and has drivers all over the State of Arizona. Our main office is 5 minutes from PHX in Phoenix, AZ.
Main Office
4600 E Washington St Ste 300
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Travel and Hospitality Award Winner - 6 Years in a Row
Testimonials and Reviews
Click here to read lots of excellent reviews from real customers.
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Distance and Quick Overview (Answer-first) -
Driving: The Most Common Choice (with subheads
Route Options,
Travel Time,
Cost Considerations) -
Rideshare and Taxi Services -
Public Transit: Valley Metro Bus -
Cycling and Pedestrian Options -
Aviation and Helicopter: Why It’s Not Practical -
Environmental Impact: CO2 Emissions -
Scenic Stops Along the Way -
Comparison Table of Transport Modes -
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Apache Junction to Phoenix: Distance, Travel Times, and Transport Options
Whether you’re commuting for work, visiting friends, or exploring the Valley of the Sun, the 35‑mile corridor between Apache Junction and Phoenix is one of the most traveled routes in Central Arizona. The trip is quick by car, affordable by public transit, and even doable by bike if you have the time and stamina. Below you’ll find a clear, answer‑first overview of the most common ways to make the journey, including real‑world travel times, key highways, and practical tips to help you choose the best option for your schedule.
How Far Is It and How Long Does It Take?
The straight‑line distance between the two cities is roughly 35 miles (≈ 56 kilometers). When you factor in the actual road network, the driving distance is about the same because the route follows the almost direct US‑60 (Arizona State Route 60) corridor. If you drive non‑stop under normal traffic conditions, you can expect to spend about 40 to 50 minutes behind the wheel. During peak‑hour traffic, the trip can stretch toward an hour, especially where US‑60 merges with I‑10 north of Mesa. For reference, the halfway point between Apache Junction and Phoenix falls just east of Mesa, a city that itself lies about 16 miles from Apache Junction and 19 miles from downtown Phoenix.
Typical Travel Times by Mode
- Car (personal or rental): 40 – 50 minutes
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): 40 – 50 minutes (same traffic variables)
- Valley Metro bus: 1.5 – 2 hours (including possible transfers)
- Bicycle: 2 – 3 hours (depending on speed and route)
- Helicopter/private aircraft: 15 – 20 minutes (high cost, not a practical option for most)
Driving: The Most Popular Choice
Route Overview
The primary route is US‑60, also known as the Superstition Freeway. Starting in Apache Junction, you’ll head west on US‑60, skirting the base of the Superstition Mountains. After about 10 miles you’ll pass the community of Goldfield and then enter the city of Mesa. At the junction with I‑10 (the Arizona Interstate 10), you can either continue north on US‑60 toward Tempe or merge onto I‑10 northbound for a faster approach to central Phoenix. The I‑10/US‑60 interchange is a key navigation point; signage is clear and the highway is well‑maintained year‑round.
Traffic Considerations
Because the corridor serves both commuters and freight traffic, congestion is common during morning (7‑9 a.m.) and evening (4‑6 p.m.) rush hours. If you’re traveling for leisure, try to avoid these windows. On weekends, traffic flow is smoother, but weekend events at venues like the Phoenix Convention Center or Salt River Fields can still cause occasional slowdowns.
Fuel and Cost‑of‑Driving
While exact fuel prices fluctuate with the market, the cost of gasoline for a 35‑mile trip is relatively low—typically just a few dollars for a typical sedan. When you factor in vehicle wear and any tolls (there are no tolls on US‑60 or I‑10 in this segment), driving remains the most cost‑effective way to travel if you’re traveling alone or with a small group.
Rideshare and Taxi Services
Uber and Lyft operate extensively in the Phoenix metropolitan area, and drivers are readily available in Apache Junction. A rideshare will follow the same US‑60/I‑10 route, so travel times mirror those of driving. The main variable is price, which can rise during high‑demand periods such as sports events or concerts. For a solo traveler, rideshare fares can be higher than the cost of fuel, but for groups of two or more the convenience often outweighs the extra expense.
Public Transit: Valley Metro Bus
For travelers who prefer an economical and environmentally friendly option, Valley Metro operates bus service that connects Apache Junction with Phoenix. Buses travel along the US‑60 corridor, making stops in Mesa and Tempe before continuing into downtown Phoenix. The trip is longer than driving—usually between 1½ and 2 hours—but the fare is modest and the schedule is relatively reliable. It’s worth checking the current timetable online before you travel, as service frequency can vary on weekends and holidays.
Key Bus Routes and Transfer Points
Valley Metro’s primary route for this corridor is the express service that runs between Apache Junction and the Mesa Transit Center, where you can transfer to other lines that continue to Phoenix. Some routes require a single transfer in Mesa, while others operate a direct express on US‑60. Either way, the bus is a viable alternative if you’re not in a hurry and want to avoid the hassle of parking in Phoenix.
Cycling and Pedestrian Options
If you’re an avid cyclist, the US‑60 corridor offers a mix of bike lanes and paved shoulders, especially as you pass through the more rural sections east of Mesa. The total distance is about 35 miles, which most experienced riders can cover in 2 to 3 hours at a moderate pace. However, cycling is less practical during the hot summer months when temperatures can exceed 100 °F. Always carry water, wear sun protection, and plan for possible rest stops at places like Apache Lake or the Goldfield Ranch.
