GO SEE
AN AUTHENTIC TASTE OF AUTUMN
By Nancy Gelston Fries | Contributor
FALL 2024 ISSUE
Photo courtesy of Visit Julian
When it comes to weather, we tend to think we have it made here in Orange County: Summers that aren’t too hot, winters that aren’t cold at all. We have the confidence to plan an outdoor event most any time of year. But around about October, we may start feeling a bit of leaf envy. People flock to places like Vermont for leaf-peeping and cider tasting and autumnal aromas that pumpkin spice candles simply can’t replicate. Don’t fret, my fellow Southern Californians. We can catch an authentic whiff of autumn without branching far from the coast. And we may not even need our jackets.
JULIAN
Just a two-plus hour car ride transports you to the small-town charm of Julian in San Diego County. At nearly a mile above sea level, Julian’s climate produces the cold snaps necessary for leaves to change color. For the best leaf-peeping, take a hike up Five Oaks Trail in Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve. If you’re hardy enough to reach the summit — a 5.4-mile round trip — you can see all the way to the ocean. For a less strenuous excursion, visit one of the many orchards where you can pick your own crisp apples, or take a stroll around the perimeter of Lake Cuyamaca. Reward yourself with a stop at Julian Pie Company for what’s arguably the best apple pie on the planet.
OAK GLEN
In the San Bernardino Mountain foothills sits another small-town apple mecca known as Oak Glen. Easily accessible off the 10 freeway, Oak Glen sits more than 4,000 feet above sea level with a climate favorable for fall foliage. If you prefer to view the leaves from the comfort of your car, you’ll see plenty along the scenic 20-mile loop, 5 miles of which meander through town. More adventurous leaf-peepers might opt for a hike in the Oak Glen Preserve, more than 2,000 acres of scenic wilderness. In addition to apple-picking and cider tasting, Oak Glen offers horse-drawn wagon rides, country music and dancing, and historical reenactments at select farms.
IRVINE REGIONAL PARK
The heritage oak and sycamore groves in Irvine Regional Park deliver a healthy dose of autumn to Orange County each year. Views of the foliage can be enjoyed strolling or riding bikes along paved paths, or from a rented paddle boat on the pond. For the best views, take the moderate Toyon Trail to Stairway Lookout. Beyond leaf-peeping, entertain yourself at the Irvine Park Railroad’s seasonal pumpkin patch, take a hay ride or pan for gold.
TUCKER WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Tucked deep within Modjeska Canyon in the Saddleback Mountain foothills, this branch of Newport Beach’s Environmental Nature Center is a favorite of bird-watching enthusiasts. Open on weekends only, it also includes a natural history museum and butterfly garden. You can take a short stroll on the Chaparral Nature Trail, continue onto the challenging Harding Truck Trail toward Modjeska Peak, or just relax in the serene environs. While in the canyon, consider a visit to Arden, the historic century-old home of actress Helena Modjeska. Tours of the house and gardens must be arranged in advance.
TANAKA FARMS
Closer to home, Tanaka Farms in Irvine beckons adults and kids alike for its annual Pumpkin Patch and Fall Harvest Festival beginning Sept. 14. Ride an open-air wagon, pick your own perfectly plump pumpkin, or fill a basket with fresh seasonal veggies. Activities for all ages include a corn maze, arts and crafts, and a barnyard educational exhibit. The farm is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended evening hours until 9 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in October. Note: Weekend reservations require a parking pass.