25 Best Things To Do In Apple Hill California (From A SF Local Who Visits Every Fall)

Fall is around the corner and I’m already craving apples, flannel, pumpkin patches, and all the cozy girlie things. There’s so many unique things to do in Apple Hill in the autumn, and it’s a yearly ritual to visit to soak up all the fall vibes. 

 Last year, I grabbed a group of friends and headed up to Apple Hill California, one of the only places to go apple picking in the state and, in my opinion, the best.

There are over 50 farms and orchards in this area of the Sierra Foothills, which means every visit can be totally different depending on the season, weather, and who you go with. The first time I came, I was overwhelmed and ended up texting local friends for tips. Since then, I’ve visited multiple times and narrowed down my favorite spots for apple cider donuts, wine, and cute fall photos.

Keep reading for the best things to do in Apple Hill, including travel tips, where to get the best apple pie, and which apple bakery stands out. This is your go-to Apple Hill day trip guide from a San Francisco local who lives for autumn.

Where Is Apple Hill California?

Apple Hill is a region, not a town. You’ll find it in Camino, just outside Placerville, about an hour from Sacramento and around 2.5 hours from San Francisco. Keep heading east on Highway 50 and you’ll end up in South Lake Tahoe.

We usually make it a day trip to hit up a bunch of Apple Hill attractions in one go, but you can easily turn this into a weekend escape. I have my eye on Eden Vale Inn, a charming B&B nearby with private tubs that look perfect for a romantic fall getaway.

This cozy Airbnb also looks really fun, it’s within walking distance to some of the best wineries in Apple Hill which is a major score. 

When Is the Best Time to Visit Apple Hill?

Apple Hill farms start opening around Labor Day weekend and go through late October or early November. That’s your ideal apple picking season window. Some farms even reopen in December for Christmas tree cutting.

• Go in mid to late September for apples at peak ripeness and to avoid the crazy heat.
• October brings the pumpkin patch vibes, hayrides, and more fall colors.
• November has fewer crowds, but some farms may be closed for the year.

Most orchards are only open Friday to Sunday, typically 10am to 5pm. Always check hours before going.

Quick Travel Tips for Apple Hill

• Cell service is spotty, so save a Google Map or print directions.
• Many orchards only take cash, or have credit card minimums.
• It gets hot. Bring water, layers, and snacks.
• Some farms are open year round, but many only operate during the fall season.
• You’ll be driving between stops. There’s no official “Apple Hill Road,” but everything is clustered off Carson Road.

Best Apple Hill Orchards and Farms in 2025

1. Larsen Apple Barn

This is one of the most iconic Apple Hill farms. Their bright red barn is easy to spot, and inside you’ll find crates of fresh apples, cookies, pies, and other baked goods. I had so much fun visiting this one last year. 

They’re also one of the few that serve lunch, with deli-style sandwiches starting around $8. They aren’t fancy, but they always hit the spot mid-afternoon. The shaded picnic area outside is great if you need to recharge.

2. Goyette’s North Canyon Ranch

This is still my favorite apple orchard in Apple Hill. They offer U-pick apples, which is surprisingly rare in this area. The owners are friendly, and the whole place feels relaxed and welcoming.

One year we showed up right before closing, and they still let us wander the rows and pick apples without any crowds. It felt magical. Plus, the caramel apples and cider slushies here are a hidden gem.

3. Delfino Farms

I’ve only visited on a Friday when they were prepping pies and not fully open, but I’ve heard nothing but great things. They have a little bit of everything: a pumpkin patch, animals, wine from Edio Vineyards, and a beautiful walking trail.

The apple pie is supposed to be incredible. It runs about $25, which is why I skipped it and opted to bake my own with the apples I picked earlier in the day.

4. Apple Ridge Farms

If you’re visiting with kids or looking for fall photo spots, this is a good one. Apple Ridge Farms has U-pick, scenic trails, zinnias, and even animals during certain weekends.

The flowers are Instagram gold, especially if you show up early before the crowds roll in.

Where to Eat in Apple Hill

Larsen’s Bake Shop

Classic deli sandwiches, fresh baked goods, and enough shade to make you want to linger. Not gourmet, but reliable. I always grab a sandwich here to keep going strong through the orchards.

Jack Russell Farm Brewery

One of my favorite stops in the whole area. They have everything: a winery, brewery, meadery, and cider house. Bring your own food, sit on the shaded patio, and try the fruit ciders like blueberry ale or traditional apple cider.

Dogs are welcome, and the whole place has a relaxed energy that feels like a reward after a long morning of farm-hopping. I had a lot of fun hanging out on this patio drinking beers. 

Rainbow Orchards

I come here just for the hot apple cider donuts. They’re fresh, warm, soft, sugary, and probably the most famous cider donuts in Northern California.

That said, our experience with the staff wasn’t great. I recommend picking up donuts to-go and enjoying them somewhere with better vibes. We stashed them in the car and snacked on them on the drive back to San Francisco.

Abel’s Acres

I haven’t been yet, but my mom friend raves about this spot. There’s a kid-friendly maze, animal rides, and Terri’s Country BBQ for hot meals. She said it’s a must-stop if you have little ones.

Boa Vista Orchards

Boa Vista is open year round, and it feels more like a farm stand market than a traditional orchard. Inside you’ll find everything from ice cream to wine, sandwiches, cider, and fresh produce. It’s a great stop for picking up snacks, pantry items, or fall-themed gifts.

We always make a pit stop here to grab something cold after a hot orchard walk.

Hidden Star Camino

This is a dedicated cider house with over 24 ciders on tap. I love coming here to cool off with something crisp and bubbly. Bonus: they’re open year round, so it’s a solid stop even outside the traditional apple season.

Other Fun Things To Do in Apple Hill

Wine Tasting

Apple Hill has a small but mighty wine scene. Most tastings are under $10, which feels like a gift compared to Napa Valley prices.

Favorites:

• Lava Cap Winery for views and their winery cat, Mr. Kitty.
• Boeger Winery for the charming property and wide variety of wines.
• Edio Vineyards, located at Delfino Farms, for local wine grown right on-site.

Find my list of other great Apple Hill wineries to visit here! 

Nature Walks and Hiking

Some farms, like Apple Ridge and Delfino, have scenic walking paths where you can take in the fall leaves and get your steps in. It’s nice to break up the food stops with a little movement.

Pumpkin Patch Season

Come back in October for hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin fields. Many of the Apple Hill farms go all out with decorations, photo ops, and seasonal treats.

Christmas Tree Cutting

In November and December, a few orchards reopen to let visitors cut their own trees. If you’re the kind of person who already has Mariah Carey on your playlist before Thanksgiving, this is a must-do.

I still haven’t gotten up to Apple Hill during the holidays, but it’s one of the best things to do in California for Christmas. 

What to Wear Apple Picking

I have a full apple picking outfit guide, but here’s a quick tip list:

• Wear layers. It can go from chilly mornings to blazing hot afternoons.
• Opt for cute fall colors or flannel for pics.
• Bring comfy shoes. You’ll be walking through dirt and grass.

Last time I wore a red plaid dress and boots, and I felt like a walking fall mood board. Just know you may sweat if it’s a hot day.

FAQ: Visiting Apple Hill California

When is Apple Hill open?
Most farms are open Friday to Sunday, from early September through late October. Some like Boa Vista Orchards and Hidden Star Camino are open year round.

Where can I get apple cider donuts in Apple Hill?
Go to Rainbow Orchards. They’re famous for them and totally worth the hype. Just grab them to-go if you don’t love a chaotic vibe.

What is the best Apple Hill orchard for apple picking?
Goyette’s North Canyon Ranch is my favorite. They actually let you pick your own apples, which isn’t the case at every orchard.

Is Apple Hill good for kids?
Yes! Farms like Abel’s Acres and Apple Ridge Farms have kid-friendly activities like mazes, animals, and pumpkin patches.

Can I visit Apple Hill outside of fall?
A few spots like Boa Vista and Hidden Star Camino are open all year. But most places only run during the apple season in fall or reopen in December for Christmas trees.

Are there any wineries in Apple Hill?
Yes. Boeger, Lava Cap, and Edio Vineyards are top picks for wine tasting. Most offer affordable tastings and beautiful outdoor patios.

What foods should I try at Apple Hill?
You cannot miss the apple pie, cider donuts, caramel apples, and baked goods like cookies and pastries. Grab a sandwich at Larsen’s or snack at Boa Vista Orchards.

I hope this helps you plan a great trip to Apple Hill and the El Dorado County area! Even though it was hot out, I had such a fun time kicking off the fall season by picking apples. I also really loved finding out how adult-friendly with wineries and breweries this places is – it’s not just for kids!

If you have any other tips to add, leave a comment below so everyone can see! Got questions? Leave a comment or DM me on Instagram @thewhimsysoul and I’ll be happy to help!