5 Fall Things to Do Near Banning, Beaumont & Cherry Valley This Weekend

Autumn has rolled in over the San Gorgonio Pass, and the hills above Cherry Valley are buzzing with the scent of apples. If you’re looking for a quick weekend escape, Oak Glen offers a handful of classic fall experiences that are easy on the wallet and perfect for families.

1. Pick your own apples at Los Rios Rancho
Los Rios Rancho, the region’s largest operating apple farm, has been welcoming visitors since 1906. Head there Saturday or Sunday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to stroll the orchards, fill a basket with crisp fruit, and then treat yourself to fresh‑baked goodies or a slow‑cooked meat dish from the on‑site kitchen. No tickets are needed, but the farm does ask you to double‑check the harvest update online – the varieties and picking conditions can shift fast.

2. Browse the Oak Glen Farmers Market
Just a stone’s throw from the trees, the mountain market pops up on Saturday and Sunday (Sept 19‑20). It’s a casual, open‑air bazaar where local growers, bakers and artisans showcase everything from heirloom tomatoes to hand‑crafted soaps. Pair a quick stop here with your apple‑picking adventure for a true taste of the valley.

3. Warm up with Snow‑Line Orchard’s cider doughnuts
Nothing says “fall” quite like a bag of hot, miniature doughnuts glazed with the orchard’s own apple‑cider syrup. Snow‑Line Orchard serves them daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday through Sunday. While you’re there, wander the rows of apples, sip a cup of fresh cider or even try a sip of local wine if the season’s right. Raspberry picking may pop up depending on the crop, so keep an eye on their website.

4. Spend a day at Oak Tree Mountain
Oak Tree Mountain blends the charm of an orchard with classic family attractions. Admission is free, and you can enjoy the tricycle track, Bubble Barn, Play Tree and Inspiration Forest at no cost. If you’re willing to spend a little extra, the mountain‑tubing slide, petting zoo and gemstone‑mining station are worth the fee. Don’t miss the caramel‑apple stand or a slice of Apple Annie’s legendary mile‑high pie.

5. Explore a working orchard at Riley’s Farm
Riley’s Farm offers a living‑history experience alongside its fruit picking. Depending on what’s ripe, you might find apples, pears or even some early berries. The farm also hosts hands‑on demos – think archery, tomahawk throwing, candle dipping and weaving – each with its own modest price tag. Check their weekly update before you go, as the harvest calendar can change quickly.

All five spots are a short drive from Banning, Beaumont and Cherry Valley, making them ideal for a relaxed, fall‑filled weekend. Pack a sweater, bring a reusable bag for your harvest, and let the crisp mountain air set the scene for a perfect autumn day.