A classic apple pie is an iconic American dessert, and for some, the most comforting pie. Of course, not all pies are created equal. What could be better than discovering the best pie in Southern California? Perhaps realizing that the scenic journey that leads to it is almost as delicious.
Just off Interstate 8 in San Diego is the Sunrise National Scenic Byway, a beautiful stretch of highway that takes you through wild and diverse landscapes on your way to one of Southern California’s cutest towns and a fabulous pie.
County Route S1, County Rte S1, California, USA
This scenic drive offers epic views of pine-filled forests, rugged mountain ranges and views of the Anza-Borrego Desert. Each season brings a new experience and a unique set of captivating sights, from wildflowers to snow.
Wide open spaces and grassy meadows open along the road, golden in the autumn and winter months, green in the spring and summer.
The roads to Julian, and the city itself, are especially special in autumn, when the fields and mountains are filled with changing colors.
When you reach quaint Julian, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back to the Gold Rush era when this town was founded. Take some time to explore or indulge your sweet tooth at the Julian Pie Company.
Julian Pie Company is a family owned and operated business in the beloved mountain town of Julian. Specializing in the classic apple pie, this little shop has made quite a name for itself, and many Southern Californians agree that these are the best pies ever. In fact, if you want to extend your road trip a bit, you can continue through Julian to Santa Ysabel and see the second location of this popular country bakery.
21976 CA-79, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070, USA
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that apple pie only means one thing. The original apple pie is just the beginning, but you can also try a variety of apple and apple pie combinations like Apple Dutch Caramel, Peach Apple Crumb, Apple Mountain Berry Crumb, and more. And what would a fresh apple-based company be without some homemade cider donuts?
During the fall picking season, Julian Pie Company bakes over 10,000 apple pies per week. The nearby town of Julian, the bakery’s namesake, is home to the company’s large apple orchard with 17,000 trees producing over 21 varieties of apples. The orchard supplies all the apples for two Julian Pie Company locations, as well as most of the country.
Whether you choose the best-selling apple pie or one of our other freshly baked fruit pies, or even a fresh fruit, chances are you won’t want to leave without enjoying a warm slice a la mode before you grab a such.
The Old West town of Julian is already extremely charming, but add a layer of fresh snow and it’s simply irresistible, like their famous pie!
We think this amazing ride and the delicious pie it serves will make for an unbeatable day trip. What do you think? Have you enjoyed an apple pie from the Julian Pie Company, or taken this car full of vistas? Tell us about your experience. Want some more scenic driving ideas? Here are some of Southern California’s most beautiful backyards.
Address: 21976 CA-79, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070, USA
Address: County Route S1, County Rte S1, California, USA
Address: Julian, CA 92036, USA
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