REVIEW: Embrace autumn at Apple Hill

By Jeanne Kim,
BlueDevilHUB.com Staff–

During the fall season many people begin to visit the local pumpkin patch or corn maze, but if you’re looking for something different that is just as rewarding and enjoyable, think about planning a trip down to Apple Hill.

Made up of 16 ranchers back in 1964, Apple Hill has grown to now boast 55 ranchers. Open year-round with seasonal ranches, Apple Hill is a must-go for everyone.

Located northeast of Placerville, Apple Hill is a collection of ranches, and those that are open in the fall give visitors the full apple experience. There are numerous options for food including apple cider donuts, apple pie, apple cider and apple dumplings, and many farms give people the opportunity to pick their own apples.

In addition to all of the apple-related food options, many of the ranches offer other food items such as hamburgers and hot dogs. The Jack Russell Brewery is a great option for anyone looking for a lunch spot with spacious and clean outdoor seating.

The stops that should be on your list if you plan to go to Apple Hill this fall season are Bolster’s Hilltop Ranch, Grandpa’s Cellar and Rainbow Orchards.

Bolster’s Hilltop Ranch is a place where family and friends can get together to pick apples. With numerous varieties of apples available in its orchard, my family was able to fill up on about three and a half bags worth of apples for about 20 dollars. Although the apples were small in size, they tasted great. The people there were helpful and kind, and we even got to sample some of their apple cider.

The next stop was Grandpa’s Cellar, a ranch well-known for its phenomenal apple dumplings. The menu was filled with other types of apple goodies such as apple pies. They even had a freezer section full of frozen apples pies and strudels that could easily be taken home for a special warm treat during the week or be given as a gift for a friend. The place was also home to a scatter of small pottery, soap, blanket and jewelry booths, and the homey feel of the place gathered a crowd.

The best by far was the final stop during our trip, and that was Rainbow Orchards. Their piping hot apple cider donuts cost only a dollar each and were perfectly crispy on the outside, yet soft and warm on the inside. They were the best way to cap off the day.

If anyone is looking for something fun to do with family and friends, Apple Hill is the place to go. Worried about it being rained out? No worries. Many farms still open on rainy days and all 14 of the bake shops are open rain or shine. Get ready for fall and head on over to indulge yourself in apples.