El Dorado County Day Trips

El Dorado County can be found in California’s Gold Country, nestled in the foothills and Sierra Nevada Mountains. Folsom Lake takes up a portion of the western border, while the California-Nevada State line marks the eastern boundary. The county seat is Placerville, and the biggest city is South Lake Tahoe. The region boasts stunning natural scenery, including towering mountains, verdant hills, rushing rivers, and glistening lakes.

Historic Placerville California

Placerville, a charming gold rush town centrally located between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe, is a great place to begin your explorations of the county before heading further east into the Sierras. Taking a stroll through the historic downtown core offers the chance to delve into its treasured heritage, reflected in the 19th-century architecture that lines the streets.

Gold Bug Mine-El Dorado County

Discover the Gold Bug Mine, located only 5 minutes from downtown Placerville. Immerse yourself in the experience of life and work during the Gold Rush era. Explore the absolute gold mine and learn about the tools used during those times. Enjoy various activities, such as gold panning, hiking, exploring a stamp mill, visiting a blacksmith shop, and more. The address is 2635 Gold Bug Lane in Placerville, California.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

In Coloma, less than 10 miles northwest of Placerville, you can visit where the state’s Gold Rush began. This is where Marshall made his significant discovery in 1848. The park features the original cabin, a museum, historic churches, and Sutter’s Mill. Visitors can also take gold panning lessons and have the chance to try their luck in its panning troughs.

Apple Hill Orchards & Wineries

The Apple Hill-Camino Wineries are part of the Apple Hill Wine Trail, which begins just northeast of Placerville. The trail features picturesque vineyards and wineries like the Boeger Winery Farm, the oldest winery in the county. The farm sits upon a lovely Gold Rush-era homestead, renowned for its innovative, unusual varietals and blends. Others include Honey Bear Ranch, Fenton Herriott Vineyards, Lava Cap Winery, and Madrona Winery.

Horsetail Falls

Horsetail Falls is in El Dorado National Forest, near South Lake Tahoe. You can find the falls along Highway 50, close to Twin Bridges and about two miles east of Strawberry. This spot is perfect for a brief stop to stretch your legs and enjoy the stunning scenery. Two trails lead to the falls – the Wilderness Boundary Trail, which takes you as close as possible, and the Gentle View Loop, suitable for families with young children.

Emerald Bay State Park

As you approach the southwest area of Lake Tahoe, you’ll come to Emerald Bay State Park. The bay is one of the most photographed and spectacular on the planet. Visitors can enjoy soaking up the sand and the sun from the beach. Jump off the pier, kayaking or paddleboarding, and even tour a castle. Vikingsholm Castle sits at the head of Emerald Bay. The building includes some original features of 11th-century stone churches from southern Sweden. Emerald Bay State Park is one of the most photographed destinations in El Dorado County.

Folsom Lake

There’s no shortage of outdoor and nature-related activities at Folsom Lake. Whether you prefer hiking its numerous trails, running, or horseback riding, you will find something to suit your interests at Folsom Lake and its surrounding areas.

Bay Area Day Trip Ideas

Folsom City Zoo Day Trip

El Dorado Park Train Long Beach