Overview
Explore some of San Diego's unique and off-the-beaten-path attractions while driving some of the best backroads in San Diego County. We'll make our way to the top of Palomar Mountain and visit the Palomar Observatory and Museum. We'll descend down to the desert town of Borrego Springs with its bighorn sheep and iconic metal sculptures dotting the landscape.
Finally, we'll make our way back through the historic mountain town of Julian, known for its delicious apple pies.
You'll want to allow a full day for this 152-mile drive. While the drive itself could technically be done in 4 hours, we'll be pointing out several points of interest and places to stop along the way. We'll also share some of the rich history of San Diego's past.
Don't miss out on this unforgettable San Diego drive!
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
App & Tour Download
Flexible Usage (unlimited access within 30-days)
Downloadable Content (pre-download tour to save data)
A Smartphone
Admission to Attractions
Transportation
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Use your favorite navigation app to make your way to the parking lot at the Plaza Del Lago shopping center, located at 3440 Del Lago Blvd, Escondido, CA 92029. Once you're there, open the Drives & Detours app and tap "Start Tour".
End point
The tour ends one exit south of where it begins, just off Pomerado Rd.
Good to know
Thanks for booking!
To get started, please follow the instructions below.
BEFORE YOU GO:
1) Download the Drives & Detours mobile app:
iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/drives-detours/id6443681888
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mytoursapp.android.app6506
2) Open app, tap "Driving Tours", then tap "Apple Pies & Desert Skies"
3) Enter Code (on iPhone tap "Login to Download" then "Login")
** Your Access Code: 2WY42E **
4) Tap "Download Tour"
STARTING THE TOUR:
1) Go to starting point: 3440 Del Lago Blvd, Escondido, CA 92029
2) Open the Drives & Detours app
3) Tap "Driving Tours", then tap "Apple Pies & Desert Skies"
3) Tap “Start Tour”
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We hope you enjoy the tour! If you have any questions, please email support@drivesanddetours.com
What to expect
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Queen Califia's Magical Circle
15 min
Queen Califia's Magical Circle is an outdoor sculpture garden created by artist Niki de Saint Phalle.
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Lake Wohlford
15 min
Enjoy a scenic overlook as you drive by Lake Wohlford.
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Pauma Valley
15 min
Take in the spectacular views of Pauma Valley as we make our way to Palomar Mountain.
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Palomar Observatory
30 min
Stop and visit the Palomar and Observatory and Museum, home to the famous 200-inch Hale Telescope.
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East Grade Road
15 min
Enjoy spectacular views of San Diego County from Kica Mik Overlook. Downtown San Diego and the Pacific Ocean are visible on clear days.
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Henshaw Scenic Vista Observation Site
5 min
Another viewpoint on Palomar's East Grade Road provides breathtaking views of Lake Henshaw and the surrounding meadows.
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Santa Ysabel Mission
15 min
Stop and visit out one of southern California's famous mission churches, dating back to 1818.
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Montezuma Valley Road
5 min
Enjoy stunning views of the harsh desert landscape and the Salton Sea from the Montezuma Valley Road Scenic Overlook.
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Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center
15 min
Stop at the Anza Borrego State Park Visitors Center before deciding if you'll take a short hike into Borrego Palm Canyon to see the fan palm oasis and seasonal creek. Be sure to keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, they blend in surprisingly well with the rocks!
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Borrego Springs Serpent Sculpture
10 min
We'll take you to the some of the most iconic metal sculptures in Borrego Springs. With more than 100 scattered across the desert, you could spend a whole day visiting them.
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Julian
1 hour
Explore the historic mining town of Julian, known today for its apple pies! We'll tell you the best place to go for pie, plus we'll point out several other local attractions worth visiting.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Los Angeles).
Additional Information
- Queen Califia's Has Extremely Limited Hours
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 5 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Apple Pies & Desert Skies: A Self-Guided Driving Tour
Can I cancel Apple Pies & Desert Skies: A Self-Guided Driving Tour for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 4–6 hours.
Where does it start?
Use your favorite navigation app to make your way to the parking lot at the Plaza Del Lago shopping center, located at 3440 Del Lago Blvd, Escondido, CA 92029.
What's included?
- App & Tour Download
- Flexible Usage (unlimited access within 30-days)
- Downloadable Content (pre-download tour to save data)
What's not included?
- A Smartphone
- Admission to Attractions
- Transportation
Which places does it visit?
It visits Queen Califia's Magical Circle, Lake Wohlford, Pauma Valley, Palomar Observatory, East Grade Road, Henshaw Scenic Vista Observation Site, Santa Ysabel Mission, Montezuma Valley Road.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English, Spanish.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Drives & Detours
