Julian is a small town with a population of around 4000, including the surrounding area, about 50 miles northeast of San Diego. It is located in the mountains in eastern San Diego County, and is known for its "Julian Apple Pies". It is a historic gold mining town, and is a great getaway for those who living in the city. Just an hour drive from San Diego, it is a step back in time.

Walk down Main Street, which still looks like you would imagine it looked 100 years ago. With a few general stores, a post office, a few shops, and a your choice of several small restaurants, it's a great way to spend an afternoon. And be sure to follow up any meal with some fresh Apple Pie and ice cream. It is also a stopping point for all the motorcyclists who take to the mountains to enjoy the weather and test their skills on the roads, which are filled with plenty of twists and turns. And unlike San Diego, Julian has 4 seasons, and even gets snow in the winter. If you want to stay for a few days, there are a few Bed and Breakfasts where you can stay. If you have time, you can head southeast from Julian on Highway 78, down Banner Grade, which descends a few thousand feet into the desert.

If you are coming from San Diego, go east on Interstate 8, then north on Highway 79 through Cuyamaca State Park. The drive will probably take at minimum an hour. You can also take Highway 67 north to 78 east from El Cajon, but it will probably take a little longer because you are doing less freeway miles.

If you are coming from LA or the Inland Empire, take the 15 south and get off in Escondido on Highway 78 and head east.

You can get there other ways too but they will require less freeway miles, and therefore more time on the road.

This description was last modified Aug 05 2005, 06:37 PM  [ View Page History ]
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