Apple Hill in the fall is pure magic—just the kind of place that makes you want to throw on a chunky sweater, grab a hot cider, and lose yourself in the season. Nestled in the hills outside Placerville, it’s full of all the fall essentials: apple orchards, cozy farm stands, quiet country roads, and pumpkin patches scattered like gems across the landscape.
Everywhere you look, it’s golden leaves and endless rows of apple trees, with that perfect crispness in the air. It’s the kind of place where you feel like a kid again, wandering through pumpkin patches and sipping on mulled cider while taking in all the colors of the season.
If you’re craving a getaway that feels equal parts laid-back and nostalgic, Apple Hill has it all. Spend the day apple-picking, wandering between the orchards, and indulging in those little seasonal luxuries—like fresh donuts, homemade pies, and mulled wine. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect day at Apple Hill, from scenic spots and cozy eats to the best spots for capturing those autumn vibes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Apple Hill
How do I get to Apple Hill?
Apple Hill is located just outside Placerville, about 50 miles east of Sacramento. If you’re coming from Sacramento, take Highway 50 East toward Placerville and follow the signs for Apple Hill. The drive is scenic and takes around an hour, making it a perfect day trip. From the Bay Area, it’s roughly a 2-hour drive, with options to stop along the way for coffee or a quick snack before arriving. Most of the orchards and wineries are close to one another, so once you’re there, it’s easy to explore.
When is the best time to visit Apple Hill?
The peak season is in October, when the fall colors are at their best and the orchards are fully stocked, but weekends can get busy. For a quieter experience, try visiting on a weekday or early in the morning when the crowds are lighter.
Are dogs allowed in Apple Hill?
Yes, nearly all of the Apple Hill orchards are pet-friendly, but each location has its own rules. Places like High Hill Ranch and Larsen Apple Barn welcome dogs on leashes – just be sure to check the specific orchard’s policy before you go.
Which Apple Hill orchards have wine and cider tasting?
A few orchards and farms, like Delfino Farms and Smokey Ridge Ranch, have wine and cider tastings for visitors. It’s a cozy way to enjoy the season’s flavors while taking in the scenic views, and the tasting areas are often set up to be as inviting as the orchards themselves.
Can I pick my own apples?
Yes! Many Apple Hill orchards offer u-pick apples, like O’Halloran’s Ranch and High Hill Ranch. Picking your own apples is a classic part of the Apple Hill experience, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead for each orchard’s picking schedule and variety availability.
Best Orchards to Visit
Apple Hill’s orchards are each a little different, offering everything from bustling farm markets to quiet, tree-lined groves where you can wander, pick apples, and simply soak in the season. Here are a few of the best spots to get your fill of fall.
High Hill Ranch
Best For: The classic Apple Hill experience
High Hill is probably Apple Hill’s most famous stop, and for good reason. It has everything you’d expect from a classic fall farm experience: apple picking, fresh cider, a bustling farm market, and a craft fair featuring local artisans and handmade goods. Start your day here with a warm cider donut or a slice of their iconic apple pie—both essentials for setting the fall mood. The farm market is filled with seasonal goodies, from apple butter and jams to handcrafted decor, making it the perfect place to grab gifts and treats to bring home.
Larsen Apple Barn
Best For: A slice of Apple Hill’s history
Known for being the area’s oldest family-run orchard, Larsen Apple Barn has a quieter, more nostalgic feel that makes it a perfect stop when you’re looking to slow down. Their apple selection is unmatched, with rows of heirloom apple varieties you won’t find in stores, and their homemade jams are a must-try. There’s even a small museum that gives a peek into the history of apple farming in Apple Hill.
Delfino Farms
Best For: a slice of the best apple pie in town
Delfino Farms is all about cozy indulgence. Their “Walkin’ Apple” pie—flaky, warm, and perfectly spiced—is best enjoyed a-la-mode with a drizzle of apple cider syrup.
Take it to the picnic area with views over the orchards, and you’ve got a little slice of autumn magic. There’s also a relaxed wine and cider tasting area if you’re looking to linger. Sip, savor, and soak in the fall vibes—Delfino is the kind of place you could stay a while, letting the pace slow down naturally.
Smokey Ridge Ranch
Best For: an calmer, offbeat experience
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Smokey Ridge Ranch is a biodynamic farm that focuses on sustainable practices. Here, chestnut picking is the highlight, and it’s a nice way to experience the season in a unique way. Afterward, settle in at a picnic table by the pond, enjoy a tasting, and soak up the peaceful setting. Fewer crowds make this a perfect spot for an afternoon that feels just a little more personal.
O’Halloran’s Ranch
Best For: an afternoon picnic in the orchard
O’Halloran’s is a favorite for anyone looking for a quiet, spacious place to wander, and is my top pick overall. Arkansas Black apples are a must-try here—they’re some of the best I’ve ever had, with a uniquely rich flavor that’s perfect for fall recipes.
With u=pick flower fields and scenic nature trails, it has the ideal blend of open spaces and small, charming details—like friendly ranch dogs and free-range quails roaming through the pumpkin patch. Bring a blanket and pack a picnic to enjoy under the apple trees.
24Carrot
Best For: a cute spot away from the crowds
This is a smaller, quaint stop with a u-pick pumpkin and flower field. The farm store has a selection of local produce and baked goods from nearby farms, perfect for a quick snack. Their blueberry muffins are a personal favorite and make for a sweet end to the day.
Wine and Cider Tasting
Apple Hill and its surroundings are also known for some incredible wine and cider experiences. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy the flavors of the region, these wineries are a must:
Delfino Farms
Delfino’s hard cider is a treat, and the tasting room is one of the prettiest around. With views overlooking the vineyards and mountains, it’s a scenic spot to enjoy the season. Pair a tasting with something from their bake shop, and take a moment to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Smokey Ridge Ranch
For a more intimate tasting experience, Smokey Ridge is like visiting a friend’s backyard. A picnic table under an old chestnut tree overlooks a small pond, making it feel private and cozy. It’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time while sipping cider and enjoying the farm’s peaceful beauty.
Narrow Gate Vineyards
Located about 15 minutes south of Apple Hill proper, Narrow Gate is perfect for when the main spots are busy. Set under massive ponderosa pines, the farm has a woodsy, secluded vibe that makes it feel miles away from everything. The owners are hands-on and often around to chat about their biodynamic practices, adding a personal touch to each tasting.
Fenton Herriot Vineyards
Situated along the historic Pony Express route, Fenton Herriot offers an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere. Kids will love their “haunted vines” area in October, while adults can enjoy a tasting alongside a round of bocce. If you’re a Gewürztraminer fan, this vineyard is a must, as they produce one of the best versions of this unique varietal.
Local Eats
Apple Hill has plenty of spots for a good meal or snack, each with its own charm and seasonal flavors. Here are a few of my favorites where you can take a break, grab something warm, and savor the local fall fare.
Forrester
Forrester feels like a hidden gem of hearty, comforting Bavarian dishes, made by a local couple who bring a lot of heart to every meal. Think sausages, pretzels, and schnitzel—simple, rich flavors that feel like the perfect fit for a crisp fall day. It’s the kind of place where you settle in, warm up, and leave feeling completely satisfied.
Blue Barn
Blue Barn is the go-to for something a little more modern and relaxed. The menu is fresh and locally sourced, with small-batch wines, craft ciders, and often live music on weekends. It’s dog-friendly and laid-back, making it an easy spot to unwind and recharge after a morning at the orchards. Perfect for a lunch in the sun if you’re in the mood for something low-key but delicious.
Pachamama
There’s something so grounding about starting the day with a cup of fair-trade coffee, and Pachamama does it right. This local spot serves farmer co-op coffee with a mission, and their lattes are smooth and strong—the perfect way to kick off an early morning or refuel mid-day.
Pio-O-Mine Ranch
A u-pick apple farm by day, Pie-O-Mine Ranch also doubles as an amazing barbeque spot through the early evening. They have transformed their gorgeous old barn into a tap room featuring local beers and hard ciders, and most evenings you’ll also find live musicians playing on their small stage. It’s a great place to hang out after a busy day at the orchards, with great food and a low-key vibe.
Scenic Drives
For a true taste of Apple Hill’s charm, these scenic routes are perfect for a slow, beautiful drive through the fall colors. Each road gives you glimpses of orchards, rolling fields, and quiet stretches of countryside that feel like they’re straight out of an autumn postcard.
Carson Road
Carson Road is the heart of Apple Hill, winding through some of the best orchards, ranches, and pumpkin patches in the area. It’s an easy, picturesque drive with spots to pull over, breathe in the crisp air, and take in the changing leaves. If you’re looking to catch all the classic fall sights, this route is a must.
Pony Express Trail
For something quieter and a little more off the beaten path, Pony Express Trail offers a slower, scenic alternative. This backroad is lined with apple fields and rustic ranches, perfect for those moments when you just want to soak up the quiet beauty of the countryside. Fewer crowds and wide-open views make it ideal for a peaceful, unhurried drive.
Local Shopping
Apple Hill isn’t just about orchards—there are a few unique spots where you can pick up one-of-a-kind finds and local treasures.
The Bookery
Located in Placerville’s historic downtown, The Bookery is a labyrinth of used books just waiting to be discovered. Every shelf holds something unexpected, from rare finds to beloved classics. It’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time wandering through stacks, picking up books that feel like they have their own stories to tell.
New Beginnings Thrift
New Beginnings Thrift is part vintage boutique, part charity shop, supporting transitional programs for formerly incarcerated individuals. With a curated selection of vintage denim, flannel, and leather, it has that perfect mix of timeless and unique pieces. It’s a stop that feels good for the soul, where every purchase goes toward a meaningful cause—and you might just find something that feels like it was meant to come home with you.
Where to Stay
If you’re planning to turn your Apple Hill day trip into a full weekend, there are some truly cozy spots nearby that capture the peaceful, woodsy vibe of the area. Here’s one of my favorite finds.
Hazel Hideaway
I stayed at Hazel Hideaway, a cozy cabin that I found on Airbnb. It feels like a true fall retreat, tucked among the tall pines of Pollock Pines. Just a short drive from Apple Hill, this cabin offers the perfect mix of seclusion and warmth. Inside, a wood-burning fireplace anchors the living room, with wool blankets draped over armchairs, inviting you to settle in after a day of exploring.
Mornings here are slow and quiet; the large windows let in soft, filtered light from the forest outside, making it a beautiful spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and the sounds of the woods. The kitchen is fully stocked for cozy nights when you want to bake with fresh apples or enjoy a simple meal. It’s an ideal base for unwinding and exploring the best of Apple Hill.
Ponderosa Ridge Bed & Breakfast
For a quiet, personal stay near Apple Hill, Ponderosa Ridge Bed and Breakfast feels like an autumn escape done right. Tucked on an 11-acre property in Placerville, this B&B offers cozy rooms, homemade breakfasts, and warm hospitality that makes you feel right at home. Each of the three suites has its own character, with comfortable furnishings, private baths, and views of the surrounding orchards and gardens.
Ponderosa Ridge is ideally located for easy access to local orchards, wineries, and trails, giving you a comfortable base to explore. With thoughtful details and an inviting feel, it’s the kind of place where you can settle in, slow down, and enjoy everything that makes fall in Apple Hill special.
Some Tips for Visiting Apple Hill
Apple Hill is packed with things to do, and a little planning can make your trip even more enjoyable. Here are a few practical tips to keep the day relaxed and easygoing.
The Best Times to Visit
Apple Hill gets especially busy on October weekends, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, weekdays or early mornings are your best bet. It’s quieter, and you’ll have more space to enjoy the orchards and scenic stops without the crowds.
What to Bring
Dress in layers—the mornings are cool, but it warms up quickly by afternoon. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you’re planning to pick apples or explore the pumpkin patches. Bringing a reusable bag is handy for any treats, apples, or market finds you’ll want to take home. And if you plan on picnicking, some spots (like O’Halloran’s Ranch) have beautiful areas to spread out a blanket, so it’s worth packing a few snacks.
Support the Local Farms
Most of the orchards and farms in Apple Hill are family-owned and run, and they put so much care into creating these fall experiences. When you buy direct, you’re supporting the local community and bringing home something unique. Look out for homemade jams, seasonal produce, and baked treats—they make for perfect take-home souvenirs.
Bear Safety
Since Apple Hill is close El Dorado National Forest it’s not uncommon to hear about black bear sightings, especially early in the morning or at dusk. While they’re generally not a concern for visitors, it’s always a good idea to keep your distance and avoid leaving food unattended in open areas. If you’re hiking or picnicking, keep your food packed away when not in use and stay aware of your surroundings—just an extra measure to ensure everyone has a safe, peaceful experience.
Apple Picking Etiquette
Stick to the marked paths, and pick only from designated u-pick areas. Most farms are pretty laid-back, but following these guidelines helps keep the orchards thriving for next season.
A Final Note on Apple Hill
Apple Hill is more than a place to pick apples—it’s an invitation to slow down and enjoy the best of fall in Northern California. From cozy orchards and cider tastings to scenic backroads lined with autumn colors, there’s something here for everyone. Take it at your own pace, find a few favorite spots, and enjoy the quiet moments along the way.
Whether you’re savoring a warm cider donut under the trees or exploring the trails around a hidden orchard, Apple Hill has a way of making you feel connected to the season. Pack a few layers, bring an empty bag for all the fall treats, and let yourself soak up every bit of the autumn magic this place has to offer.
Planning your own trip to Apple Hill? I’d love to hear about your favorite finds, must-visit spots, or any tips for making the most of the season!
