An Autumn Adventure come to life. . .Dear Hubby and I were introduced to Oak Glen about 8 years ago. Living in the Southland for over 25 years at that point, I was surprised that i'd not heard of it before friends took us up. A horseshoe-shaped valley sits above Yucaipa, about a mile high in a clear-skied setting.
Clusters of family orchards take advantage of the micro-climate to grow unique varieties of apples. Similar to going wine-tasting, here in season, you can go apple-tasting at the various farms. Many offer apple-picking, which is a treat for the kids, especially. The season can be short for picking, and Mother Nature also can be fickle on the amount of fruit available and when it will be ripe. Never fear, tasting still goes on even if you can't be the one doing the harvesting.
Many of the farms feature other attractions, like gift shops, pumpkin patches, picnic tables, animals to pet, and more. It's a great family adventure, but couple and groups of adult friends also enjoy the atmosphere.
The clear blue skies and mountain backdrop showcase fall colors in the deciduous trees. A photographer's delight!
It's a rural area, so parking can be challenging on the small shoulders of the two lane road in areas where parking hasn't specifically been carved out off-road. Weekends are crowded. Bring your patience and a warm sweater or jacket, as the temperatures are usually 20 degrees cooler than down in Yucaipa or Riverside in the fall months. They can get snow in the winter.
Oak Tree Village is a lure for kids, and parents need to be prepared to spend money there for a wide variety of activities. Snow-Line Orchards tempts the taste-buds with freshly made apple cider donuts coming out of the fryer right in front of you, frosted with cinnamon sugar. They also offer a wide variety of apple varietals to taste / purchase in their gift shop. Riley's Farm offers a historic perspective, from their living history events, to live theater, and dance events in the big barn.
The historic stone schoolhouse offers a quiet respite from the more hectic venues. Kids can work off excess energy in the adjacent play structure. Hiking trails and a corn maze are other attractions.
Hugely packed apple pies are another signature feature in Oak Glen. Many of the orchards and food venues offer their version of the local baked goods.
I recommend taking a day trip back to a simpler time to this pastoral valley. Plan to bring home tasty apples that you likely can't find at your local grocery store, like Cameo, Mutsu, Spartan, Cortland, and many more! read more