Our Apple Hill "Favorites"

Think of the most "fall-ish" place you can imagine…and chances are it will probably resemble Apple Hill:) If you live in Northern California, you'll want to visit this stretch of apple farms, pumpkin patches, vineyards, and treats galore! It's the stuff of Autumn dreams:) 

Every year our family marks the season by making the few hour trek to Apple Hill. This stunning area is comprised of 40 apple farms that you can stop off at, creating new memories. Each farm has something a little different to offer, but every one is so lovely in it's own way. 

Here are some of our favorites! 

1) O'Hallorans Apple Train Ranch

This is MY personal favorite because it is beautiful in every way. We have taken family pictures in the u-pick orchards for almost 8 years now, so it's really special. They have a gorgeous pumpkin patch, beautiful farmshop, and so many wildflowers. It just gives off such a fun vintage vibe. We usually start here, and then move to....

2) Hidden Star Camino

We discovered this one a few years ago, and it has fast become my kid's favorite as it has a HUGE playground for little ones. They have teeter toters, climbing ropes, a firetruck, airplane, and tractor to climb on, and a whole Wild West town (along with a pirate ship!). They also have a cider tap room with all sorts of creative apple ciders. We usually buy a few to try and let the kids sample them! This year they added an apple sling shot which was a lot of fun! 

3) Apple Ridge Farms

Apple Ridge (right between O'Hallorans and Hidden Star Camino), is a fun little stop off. We usually don't stay too long, but we go for the maze. My kids love a good Fall maze. I usually costs a few dollars per child, but this year it was free because we evidently came on Johnny Appleseed's birthday haha! They also have gold panning for the kids which is fun! 

4) High Hill Ranch

High Hill is all about the apple cider donuts! They have so many different flavors, we get a few and let the kids share! They also have pony rides which has been a hit every year. There is a lovely lake you can relax beside, and a huge craft fair of vendors. Also, this is a great place to grab some lunch or dinner, as they have a delicious Mexican food vendor that sells amazing tacos and burritos! 

5) El Dorado Orchards

Two things bring us to El Dorado every year, 1) The adorable train ride that goes around a pretty lake and 2) The famous apple cider floats and apple cider milkshakes. The ambiance is really lovely with lawn games and old fashioned carriages the kids can play on. 

6) Grandpa's Cellar

This is the best place to get gluten free apple goodies! Apart from having a great selection of regular apple desserts, they also serve gluten free cookies, gluten free apple crisp and a few other gluten free items (it always changes). They have a gorgeous orchard with picnic tables that make a fun dining experience! 

7) Delfino Farms

This farm has the most gorgeous views. Perched on a hillside, they have a lovely grassy knoll you can picnic on while looking out on the vineyards below. This farm is a favorite for their walking trails. You can see some beautiful scenery while walking the perimeter of the apple farm and vineyards! Lots of fall colors! 

Tip: Start at the most northern of farms and work south. Most people start at the southern farms and work up. This will mean that you will hit less crowds! We started at O'Hallorans, then went to Apple Ridge Farms, Hidden Star Camino, (Grandpa's Cellar if you need a gluten free treat), then over to High Hill, El Dorado, and then finished at Delfino! 

Hope this was helpful! Apple Hill is truly a special place, and I hope you and your family have the best trip! Let me know if you went!! xoxo