Spend the Day Apple Picking!
If you're yearning for a day filled with apple-scented breezes, scenic orchards, and charming countryside allure, look no further than Oak Glen.
Just a short drive from Big Bear, Oak Glen welcomes visitors with open arms, promising a day trip extravaganza that unveils the agricultural beauty and rustic charm of this idyllic mountain haven.
So, buckle up and get ready for an adventure that seamlessly blends the tranquility of Big Bear with the vibrant bounty of Oak Glen.
Trip Overview
If you're staying in Big Bear for a few days and looking to explore the surrounding areas, a day trip to Oak Glen is a delightful choice. With its apple orchards, charming farms, and scenic landscapes, Oak Glen promises a day filled with countryside charm and outdoor adventures.
Getting There:
Embark on a scenic journey from Big Bear Lake to Oak Glen by taking CA-38 W. The approximately 40-mile drive takes around 1.5 hours, offering breathtaking views of the San Bernardino National Forest along the way.
What to Expect Along the Way:
As you wind your way through the mountainous terrain, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the lush forested slopes. Be sure to keep an eye out for viewpoints along the route, allowing you to pull over and capture the beauty of the journey.
Arriving in Oak Glen:
Oak Glen welcomes visitors with its pastoral beauty and agricultural charm. The region is renowned for its apple orchards, family-friendly farms, and the vibrant Oak Glen Village. As you enter the town, you will find a variety of farms lining the road, mostly apple orchards, but also u-pick berry farms.
Exploring Oak Glen
Apple Picking at Riley's at Los Rios Rancho:
Kick off your day with a visit to Riley's at Los Rios Rancho, where you can partake in the quintessential fall activity of apple picking. Stroll through the orchards, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and savor the joy of selecting your own apples.
Oak Glen Village:
Explore the quaint Oak Glen Village, where you'll find charming shops, artisanal goods, and local treats. The village captures the essence of a bygone era, offering a relaxing atmosphere for a leisurely stroll. Be sure to grab an apple pie to take back to Big Bear!
Lunch at Apple Annie's:
Enjoy a hearty lunch at Apple Annie's, a popular restaurant in Oak Glen known for its delicious apple-inspired dishes. From apple pies to savory treats, the menu showcases the region's agricultural bounty.
About Oak Glen
Oak Glen is an agricultural gem situated at an elevation of around 4,734 feet. Known for its apple orchards, the region features numerous family-owned farms and offers a variety of seasonal activities, including apple picking, hayrides, and cider tasting. The Oak Glen Preserve provides opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
A day trip from Big Bear Lake to Oak Glen is a perfect blend of rustic charm and outdoor exploration. With its apple orchards, friendly farms, and idyllic village, Oak Glen offers a unique and memorable experience for those looking to complement their Big Bear getaway. Plan your day accordingly, and you'll return to Big Bear with fond memories of your countryside adventure.
Directions to Oak Glen from Big Bear
Depending on the route you take and road conditions, the drive from Big Bear Lake to Oak Glen is appoximately 1.5- 2 hours long. You can get to Oak Glen from Big Bear via two routes, state route 18 and state route 38. You most likely traveled to Big Bear via the 18 which is the main route to Big Bear. However, we suggest that you consider taking state route 38, also known as the "back way" as it offers a different scenic drive with views of the San Gorgonios.
See the map below for point to point directions.
