There’s nothing like fall in San Luis Obispo County. The weather is mild, the colors are beautiful, the summer crowds have dissipated and there’s just a certain something special in the air. If you plan to visit soon and are looking for ideas, here are five recommendations to help you enjoy fall to the fullest here in SLO County:
Experience The Cambria Scarecrow Festival through October 31
Now in its tenth year, the Cambria Scarecrow Festival (pictured here) has grown into a community-wide event with hundreds of scarecrows bowling, bathing, painting, pedaling, fishing and flying through Cambria, San Simeon and Harmony. You will be amazed at the humor and creativity on display as you walk or drive around Cambria. This is not a ticketed event—just head out to Cambria and behold!
Visit Avila Valley Barn
Plentiful pumpkins, homemade baked goods and cute farm animals, oh my! Just up the road from the sands of Avila Beach, Avila Valley Barn is an iconic autumn experience for the entire family. Did we mention tractor rides, ice cream and fresh local produce? There’s something for everyone at Avila Valley Barn.
Hike Cerro San Luis (a.k.a. Madonna Mountain)
For incredible 360-degree views of greater San Luis Obispo, look no further than Cerro San Luis, also known as Madonna Mountain. During the fall season, you can typically expect mild temperatures and clear skies: perfect conditions for enjoying a vigorous hike and the views that come with it. The Cerro San Luis trailhead is less than a mile from downtown. It’s a 1.5-mile hike to the top with an elevation gain of 1,100 feet. You will love the payoff!
Savor Local Wines in Paso and SLO
Take a tasty walk around picturesque Paso Robles as 18 downtown tasting rooms host the Autumn Wine Stroll on November 3. Here, you will enjoy a diverse selection of award-winning wines paired with gourmet bites—all walkable from one to the other.
Also on November 3, you can savor local wines along the beachfront as SLO Wine Country hosts its annual Harvest on The Coast event at Avila Beach Golf Resort. The festivities include tastes from 60 local wineries and eateries, as well as live music and a lively auction.
P.S. There’s also the regionwide Paso Robles Harvest Wine Weekend coming up very soon on October 19-21, with more than 100 local wineries celebrating this signature season with festive open houses.
Take a Zip ‘n Sip VIP Tour with Ancient Peaks and Margarita Adventures
Hey, we may be biased, but you cannot go wrong with ziplining over a vineyard that is resplendent with autumn color, then enjoying a guided reserve wine tasting with cheese and charcuterie at Ancient Peaks Winery. This is the best excuse to “fall into adventure” before the busy holidays are upon us. Click here to learn more about this special package.
