Apple Pies & Desert Skies: A Self-Guided Driving Tour Discount Tickets

Overview

Explore San Diego’s mountains, desert, and backcountry on a self-guided scenic driving tour from Escondido to Julian via Palomar Mountain and Borrego Springs. This 152-mile route takes you along some of the best backroads in Southern California, with GPS-triggered audio guiding you to overlooks, historic sites, and hidden stops along the way. Climb to the summit of Palomar Mountain to visit the famous Palomar Observatory, then descend into the desert landscapes of Anza-Borrego. Along the way, you’ll spot Borrego Springs’ iconic metal sculptures, sweeping valley views, and roadside viewpoints worth stopping for. The route finishes in the historic town of Julian—perfect for a slice of its famous apple pie. This flexible, self-paced tour lets you explore on your own schedule. Allow a full day to take in viewpoints, small towns, and optional short hikes like Borrego Palm Canyon. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection if you plan to stop and explore.

Meeting and Pickup

End Point

Language Offered

English-AUDIO

English-WRITTEN

Spanish-AUDIO

Spanish-WRITTEN

Itinerary

Inclusion

App & Tour Download

Flexible Usage (unlimited access within 30-days)

Downloadable Content (pre-download tour to save data)

Exclusion

A Smartphone

Admission to Attractions

Transportation

Cancellation Policy

Refundable tickets

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• 100% refund if cancelled 1+ days before the start date
• 0% refund if cancelled less than 1 day(s) before the start date

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Palomar Observatory Closes at 3PM

Anza Borrego Visitor Center Closes at 5PM

Mom's Pies in Julian Closes at 5PM

Eagle Mine in Julian Closes at 4PM

Queen Califia's Has Extremely Limited Hours