Your Guide to Visiting Apple Hill This Fall
Looking for the perfect way to kick off fall? A trip to Apple Hill — just outside Sacramento — is a must. Think apple picking, fresh cider, cozy farms, and all the best fall flavors. Here’s how to make the most of your day!
Plan Ahead
• Check the website or socials: Apple Hill farms post updates about hours, events, and what’s in season.
• Best time to visit: September through November is peak apple season. For smaller crowds, aim for a weekday.
Getting There
• Location: About 45 minutes to an hour east of Sacramento along US-50.
• Heads up: Traffic can get busy, especially on weekends. Carpooling makes parking easier — and road trips are always more fun with friends.
What to Bring
• Dress in layers: Mornings are cool, afternoons warm up quickly.
• Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking through orchards and fields.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats: Fall sun can still be strong.
• Cash: Some farms don’t take cards, especially for smaller stands and treats.
What to Do
Pick Apples
Wander the orchards and pick your own apples straight from the trees. Some farms provide bags or baskets, but it’s never a bad idea to bring your own just in case.
Where to go:
• Denver Dan’s Apple Patch is a local favorite for u-pick apples and a laid-back vibe.
• Pine-O-Mine Ranch has a smaller crowd and great apple varieties.
Tip: Always follow the farm’s picking rules and treat the orchards with care.
Explore the Farms
Many farms offer more than just apple picking:
• Pumpkin patches
• Corn mazes
• Hayrides
• Petting zoos and pony rides for the kids (and the kids-at-heart)
Must-visit:
• Abel’s Apple Acres has everything from a maze to a bakery — and plenty of spots to hang out with a caramel apple.
Eat and Drink
Apple Hill is famous for its fall treats. Be sure to try:
• Fresh apple pies
• Cold apple cider
• Warm apple donuts
• Caramel apples and more
Where to eat:
• Bodhaine’s at Drew Bean Farms: Home of the famous apple donuts. Trust us, you’ll smell them before you see them.
• High Hill Ranch: One of the bigger stops, great for cider slushies and pie.
Leave room for a few stops — no shame in second (or third) dessert.
Shop Local
Browse craft shops and farm stands for handmade art, seasonal decorations, and unique gifts.
Don’t miss:
• Boa Vista Orchards has a huge selection of jams, butters, and seasonal produce. Plus, their bakery is worth a stop.
Take in the Scenery
The hills light up with colorful fall leaves. Bring your camera (or your phone) and snap a few pictures — you’ll want to remember it.
Events to Look For
Apple Hill hosts events throughout the season, like:
• Cider Sunsets on Fridays
• Kids Days with activities
• Happy Hours at Drew Bean Farms
Check the calendar before you go so you don’t miss anything fun.
A Few Reminders
• Dispose of your trash properly.
• Be respectful to the farms and orchards.
• Take your time, enjoy the atmosphere, and make a day of it.
Apple Hill is the perfect spot to soak in all the cozy fall feels — and maybe pick up a bag (or three) of fresh apples while you’re at it. 🍏🍂