Planning a fall getaway? Head to Julian, California for apple picking—a charming mountain town bursting with crisp air, orchard adventures, and sweet memories waiting to happen.

Highlights:

  • Pick your own apples at family-owned orchards.
  • Taste fresh-baked Julian apple pie.
  • Stroll through the historic gold rush-era downtown.
  • Enjoy cider tastings and seasonal treats.
  • Take scenic drives through the Cuyamaca mountains.

Unique Apple Picking in Julian, California:

1. Pick and Pour at Calico Ranch


U-pick apples and estate-grown hard cider make this a fall favorite in Julian

Pick and Pour at Calico Ranch

© Jon/stock.adobe.com

Offering beautiful views of the San Diego backcountry, Calico Ranch is another super apple picking spot in Julian. Apple picking season and opening hours at this location depend on the harvest and weather conditions, so it's important to keep up to date on the ranch's official site and get in touch by phone before heading out, but if you are lucky enough to walk up and down the apple trees at Calico Ranch, you're in for a real treat. Some truly tasty apples of multiple varieties are grown on this land, with the owners also producing both apple and pear ciders too.

4200 CA-78, Julian, CA 92036, Phone: 858-586-0392

2. Wander, Taste, and Bloom at Peacefield Boutique Orchard & Garden


Fruit trees, floral paths, and small-batch magic in a thoughtfully curated oasis

Wander, Taste, and Bloom at Peacefield Boutique Orchard & Garden

© Václav Mach/stock.adobe.com

As the name implies, this beautiful apple orchard and garden offers a peaceful setting for a full day of relaxing apple picking and other farm-based activities. Farmer-guided orchard and garden tours can be enjoyed at this location for respectably low prices and are a great way to learn all about the land and the intricacies of the apple growing process. Then, you can head out among the trees yourself and start filling up some apple bags with freshly-plucked fruit. Top class food options are also served at this Julian apple farm with fresh, local ingredients, and the location can be rented out for weddings and other special events.

Peacefield Boutique Orchard & Garden, 3803 Wynola Rd, Julian, CA 92036, Phone: 855-936-2775

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Q: Why is Julian a popular apple destination in California?
  • A: Julian is one of the top apple spots in California, with a nice selection of orchards and farms to choose from.
  • Q: Why should visitors check out more than one orchard in Julian?
  • A: Each orchard is different, offering a new experience every time.
  • Q: What types of experiences do Julian’s apple orchards offer?
  • A: Some orchards keep things simple, while others offer a variety of extra activities for guests of all ages.

Plan Your Trip