It is endemic to Mexico; it is widespread and occurs from southern Sinaloa and Durango southeastward to Veracruz and Oaxaca.

[2][3] The nominal Sarcohyla bistincta consists of several lineages that may eventually be described as distinct species.

The toes are moderately long and slender too and bear discs that are slightly smaller than the finger ones.

The ventral surfaces are usually uniform pale yellow, but occasionally with sparse dark vermiform mottling, especially on throat and chest.

[4] Sarcohyla bistincta occurs in pine-oak and pine-fir forests[2] at elevations of 1,219–2,900 m (3,999–9,514 ft) above sea level[4] and in the associated streams.