Nestled in the hills above Yucaipa, Calif., is the community of Oak Glen. About two hours from the National Training Center and Fort Irwin, Oak Glen is home to several apple orchards and related businesses that offer a great break from High Desert living.
During the fall months, the orchards in Oak Glen are full of ripe apples just waiting to be picked by visitors.
According to the Oak Glen Apple Growers Association web site, “The mile-high climate of Oak Glen provides a beautiful change of seasons, unsurpassed in Southern California. It’s always 10 to 15 degrees cooler in Oak Glen than it is in the valleys. Apple orchards cover the slopes laden with blossoms in the spring and apples in the fall. The scenery is more like New England, and only 90 minutes from Los Angeles on the way to Palm Springs. Oak Glen offers wholesome family fun in every season.”
Guests can visit orchards, taste fresh apples and cider, enjoy hot apple pie at one of the several family restaurants, feed the animals in the animal parks, or browse through some of the many specialty shops. Bed and breakfast establishments, recreational vehicle facilities, camping and group accommodations are available. During the fall season, you can: pick your own apples, berries, and pumpkins; make your own cider, or; enjoy country music and dancing. You can also visit a one-room schoolhouse, take a hayride, or a nature walk, according to the web site.
To learn more and plan your trip to Oak Glen, check out http://www.oakglen.net/.
