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

When the air starts to smell like crisp leaves and the hills turn golden, the San Gorgonio Pass rolls out a little slice of autumn heaven. Just a short drive from Banning, Beaumont and Cherry Valley, Oak Glen transforms into a hub of apple‑picking, market stalls and family‑friendly fun. If you’re looking for a weekend that feels both relaxed and a bit adventurous, here are five easy‑going ways to soak up the season.

1. Grab a basket at Los Rios Rancho. This historic farm, operating since 1906, is Southern California’s largest apple orchard still open to the public. No tickets, no reservations – just show up between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday or Sunday, wander the rows, and pick the varieties that catch your eye. The farm also serves fresh‑baked treats, slow‑cooked meats and a handful of artisan goods if you’re hungry after the hunt.

2. Stroll the Oak Glen Farmers Market. After a morning of picking, swing by the mountain market for a quick bite or a unique souvenir. Local growers, bakers and craftspeople line the stalls with everything from crisp produce to handmade candles. The market runs both Saturday and Sunday, making it a perfect stop to refill your pantry before heading back down the pass.

3. Warm up with Snow‑Line Orchard’s cider doughnuts. No trip to Oak Glen feels complete without a bag of those tiny, fluffy doughnuts drizzled in the orchard’s own apple‑cider glaze. They’re best enjoyed hot, right off the grill, while you sip a cup of fresh cider under the shade of the trees. If the season’s lucky, you might even find raspberries ready for picking.

4. Spend a playful day at Oak Tree Mountain. This family‑focused park blends the rustic charm of apple season with a handful of attractions: a free tricycle track, a Bubble Barn, a whimsical Play Tree and an “Inspiration Forest.” For a small fee, you can zip down a mountain tubing slide, meet farm animals at the petting zoo, or try your hand at gemstone mining. Don’t forget to sample a caramel apple or a slice of the famous mile‑high Apple Annie’s pie.

5. Explore Riley’s Farm, a living‑history orchard. Tucked away on the Beaumont side of Oak Glen, Riley’s offers more than just fruit. Check the weekly board for what’s ripe, then wander the Colonial‑style farmstead, watch historic demonstrations, or join an activity like archery or candle‑dipping. Some experiences carry a modest fee, but the atmosphere is priceless – especially for kids who love a hands‑on history lesson.

All five spots are family‑friendly, free to enter (aside from the cost of the fruit or activities you choose), and perfect for a leisurely weekend. Pack a picnic, bring a sweater, and let the autumn colors guide you up the mountain. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick escape or a visitor passing through, Oak Glen’s fall lineup is a delightful reminder that the season really is in the air.