Exploring Apple Hill: A Perfect Fall Family Day Trip Destination

Apple Hill in El Dorado County, California, has been the perfect traditional fall family destination for half a century, with its mix of kid-friendly activities and adult attractions. Attractions include u-pick apple ranches, a Christmas tree farm, a microbrewery with handcrafted beers, a spa, and a few vineyards. Although open year-round, Apple Hill is best visited in early October or November when apple picking is at its best, and the changing colors of the fall leaves make the entire experience even more memorable.

Apple Hill peak season in October when the weather is cooler, the apples are ripe, and the festivities are in full swing. Here are our top picks for visiting the Apple Hill region of Northern California:

High Hill Ranch, Placerville, California

There are plenty of things to see and do at Apple Hill. High Hill Ranch is a great place to start, the most popular destination in Apple Hill. Here, families can relax and have fun, enjoying a picnic lunch while sitting by the trout fishing pond or sipping a free sample of apple cider from a large cider press. There are also hayrides, pony rides, and face painting for the kids. High Hill Ranch also has an on-site restaurant and bakery offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner—address: 2901 High Hill Rd, Placerville, California. https://highhillranch.com/

El Dorado Orchards: Ride a Miniature Train

Next is El Dorado Orchards, featuring a miniature train that takes guests around a large pond for just a few dollars. Children can also enjoy feeding the ducks while waiting to catch the train. This activity, along with the largest arts and crafts fair in Apple Hill, makes it a family-friendly spot for weekend outings during the fall season. The place is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM, mid-September through December—address: 2881 North Canyon Road, Camino, California. https://www.eldoradoorchards.com/

Abel’s Apple Acres

Abel’s Amazing Maze is just the right size for kids to navigate but fun for adults. Once you have successfully made it through the maze, there is an Apple Barn and Bake Shop filled with homemade apple pies, apple cider, and other apple-themed treats like fudge. Also at this apple farm is Terri’s Country Cuisine & BBQ, where you can enjoy meals with a view, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely meal amidst the orchard setting. 2345 Carson Road, Placerville, California. https://abelsappleacres.com/

U-Pick Apple Orchards

With so many activities to see and do, the best attraction at Apple Hill is the apple orchards themselves. U-Pick apple season is from mid-September through November, blueberry picking is in mid-June, and U-Pick Pumpkins is in October. Visitors of all ages will enjoy wandering through the beautiful rows of trees, some with paths that wind their way to tiny bakeries that make various apple treats. These treats include apple fritters, apple cider doughnuts, caramel apples, apple turnovers, apple butter, and apple pie with cider sauce.

Places to Visit At Apple Hill

Popular destinations include the Apple Pantry, Larsen’s neat farm “museum,” Apple Ridge Farms, Rainbow Orchards, and Mill View, which has its famous pig roasting on a big barbeque and pony cart. Your day trip to Apple Hill is not just about apples. Several family-run wineries are on the hill, including Boeger Winery, Lava Cap Winery, ParaVi Vineyards, and Wofford Acres Vineyards. There is even a brewery for beer fans. As you can see, plenty is going on at Apple Hill year-round, so just about any season is a good time for a day trip.

Getting To Apple Hill Orchards

Apple Hill will surely delight visitors, and the kids will unanimously agree that it’s an inexpensive family trip that should be taken every year. There is no charge for parking or entrance into the ranches, and activities are modestly priced. Apple Hill is located just northeast of Placerville, about one hour east of Sacramento. The recommended route is Highway 50 at exits 48 or 54, although you may take any exit marked “Apple Hill Scenic Drive” between exits 48 and 54.

Tips for Planning a Day Trip to Apple Hill:

• Timing: Visit on weekends for the complete Apple Hill experience; weekdays offer a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds.
• What to Wear: Dress in layers; mornings may be cool, but it could warm up later in the day. Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be strolling through orchards.
• Check the Weather: Apple Hill’s charm is enhanced by good weather, so be sure to check the forecast.
• Parking: Finding a parking spot can be difficult, particularly on busy weekends. You may want to consider arriving early.
• Bring Cash: Some smaller vendors might prefer cash, though many places now accept cards. While many activities are free, some orchards might charge for attractions.

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