You don’t need to travel far to enjoy a perfect fall weekend—just head to Julian, California, a small mountain town in the Cuyamaca Mountains, about 60 miles from San Diego. Known as the Apple Capital of Southern California, Julian is especially magical from late September to early November.
A must-do activity is apple picking. Visit “U-pick” orchards like Julian Farm and Orchard, which hosts a Harvest Fest with hayrides, cider pressing, pumpkin picking, and axe-throwing. Other popular spots include Apples and Art Orchards and Volcan Valley Apple Farm.
If you prefer baked treats, Main Street has plenty of options. Try Julian Pie Company, Apple Alley Bakery, or Moms Pie House for apple pies, cider donuts, and apple dumplings filled with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar.
For outdoor fun, explore Lake Cuyamaca or Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, where black oak leaves turn golden in fall. Enjoy hiking, boating, or fishing, or tackle trails like the Five Oaks Trail or Volcan Mountain Trail. Horseback rides are also available at Integrity Stables through the Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve.
No matter how you spend your time, Julian gives you the full fall experience, from crisp mountain air to apple-filled treats and scenic hikes.
#JulianCA #AppleCapital #FallGetaway #CaliforniaTravel #ApplePicking #AutumnVibes #MountainTown #FallTravel #HikingCalifornia #CuyamacaMountains