Gus’s Jerky is a quaint red-and-white shop located just off Highway 395, its exterior plastered with stickers, giving it the edgy charm of a well-worn skateboard deck. Since 1996, Gus has been crafting his jerky with a passion for quality, using only premium cuts of meat and ensuring that no preservatives are added. His dedication to producing the best jerky in the world is evident in every savory bite.
To Get to Gus’s Fresh Jerky
To get to Gus’s Fresh Jerky, take Highway 395 and look for the small red-and-white shop covered in stickers—it’s hard to miss! It’s a popular stop for road trippers seeking delicious, preservative-free jerky made from premium cuts of meat. Just pull over, stock up, and enjoy some of the best jerky around!
- Location: 580 US-395, Olancha, CA 93549
When To Go
The best time to road trip along highway 395 is in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) for mild temperatures and clear views. Winter has chilly nights, while summer can be very hot.
Gus’s Fresh Jerky Shop
We popped in for a quick visit, and I couldn’t resist picking up some mouthwatering jerky along with a jar of fragrant sage honey. The jerky was perfectly tender and flavorful, just what you’d expect from a place with such a great reputation. Gus has clearly been busy growing his business beyond just jerky. In addition to his signature snack, he now offers a variety of local products, including honey, dried fruit, nuts, and even olives. The shelves are stocked with unique, high-quality goods that are perfect for road trip snacking or gifts to take home.
Stopping at Gus’s Fresh Jerky is an experience. You can stretch your legs, take in the charm of the sticker-covered shop, and maybe even meet Gus himself, who’s known to be friendly and passionate about what he does. It’s the kind of roadside stop that adds character to a road trip and leaves you feeling like you’ve discovered a hidden gem along Highway 395.
Have you tried anything else from Gus’s Fresh Jerky shop that you loved? Or maybe you’ve found other fantastic food stops along this scenic highway? I’d love to hear your recommendations, so be sure to share them in the comments below! Road trips are always better with great snacks and tips from fellow travelers.
If you’re on a road trip check out my post Make Your Road Trip on Highway 395 into an Epic Journey to find some more places to see.