This Cozy Mountain Town Is California’s Perfect Fall Getaway—and It’s the ‘Apple Capital of Southern California’

West Coasters don’t need to board a cross-country flight to enjoy a picture-perfect autumnal weekend. All they have to do is venture to Julian, California, otherwise known as the “Apple Capital of Southern California. This small mountain town, population 1,491, is a year-round destination, but it’s particularly magical in late September, October, and early November.

As fall arrives, visitors come to Julian—which sits in the Cuyamaca Mountains, about 60 miles outside of downtown San Diego—with a few fall activities on their to-do list. Apple picking is usually at the top. Apple orchards have a relatively long history in Julian. The first apples were planted in the 1870s, and the town hosted an Apple Day celebration in 1909. Today, apple and fall-themed festivities continue throughout the season. If this sounds like your ideal kind of day trip, here’s what your itinerary should include.

Start your trip by visiting one of the “U-pick” orchards in the area. Julian Farm and Orchard hosts a Harvest Fest in September and October, with apple and pumpkin picking, hayrides, axe-throwing, and a cider pressing demonstration, among other family-friendly activities. Alternatively, you can pick your own fruit at Apples and Art Orchards or Volcan Valley Apple Farm.

If you’d rather enjoy your apples in baked form—without having to put in the work in the kitchen yourself—head to Main Street in Julian, where apple pies are plentiful. Pop into Julian Pie Company, Apple Alley Bakery, or Moms Pie House for a sweet seasonal treat. The former also has apple cider donuts, while the latter serves up an “apple dumpling,” a whole apple that’s peeled and cored, filled with nutmeg, brown sugar, and cinnamon, and baked in cream cheese and a flaky crust.

When you’re not filling your apple basket or your belly, embrace the great outdoors at Lake Cuyamaca and Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. Here, you’ll witness the black oak leaves changing into a golden yellow, a process that usually peaks around early to mid-November, although The Old Farmer’s Almanac estimates it could be slightly later this year. Hiking, boating, and fishing are also popular things to do within the park. Those who want to hike a bit more can also tackle the three-mile Five Oaks Trail, which has views of Julian, or the nearly five-mile, moderate Volcan Mountain Trail. There’s also the option to see the area on horseback. Integrity Stables offers trail rides through the Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, one thing’s for sure: You’ll definitely get the full fall experience in Julian.