A group of 50 small farms offers a hands-on introduction to the rural side of El Dorado: the Apple Hill Growers are based in the Camino/Fruitridge area of El Dorado County. The association was founded in 1964 to bring the public to its member farms and showcase their crops and the baked goods made from them. Apple Hill includes fruit and vegetable farms, wineries, bed-and-breakfast accommodations, flower gardens and Christmas tree farms.
Cider is also part of the agricultural tradition: farms have been making it for generations, and many now offer distinctive varieties that reflect the community’s family traditions. It’s best to check in advance which producers and seasonal offerings suit your visit. In the Fair Play wine region of El Dorado County, Shadow Ranch offers tours and tastings; check whether they are available for your dates before planning your visit.
Gold Rush History at Historic Sites
At Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, a replica of the original sawmill stands beside more than 20 historic buildings. Guided tours last 45 minutes and take place daily at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. If you’re planning a tour, check the schedule before you travel. The combination of the replica and preserved historic buildings makes the park a tangible way to explore Gold Rush history.
Another historic stop is the Fountain & Tallman Museum in Placerville, a historic museum listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Language also offers a glimpse into the history of California’s goldfields: “Gam Saan” means “Gold Mountain” in Cantonese and was the historical term Chinese gold seekers and miners used for these goldfields.
High Elevations, Trails and River Scenery
Desolation Wilderness covers 63,690 acres along the crest of the Sierra Nevada. Its elevation ranges from 6,500 feet to just under 10,000 feet. A wilderness permit is required year-round for day visits and overnight camping. In winter, experienced visitors can ski or snowshoe in its remote mountain backcountry. The permit requirement applies whether you’re visiting for the day or camping overnight.
Another trail option is the 2.5-mile Gerle Loop Trail at Magnolia Ranch: this easy-to-moderate, mostly flat route passes through rolling hills and oak woodlands and provides access to the American River. Non-motorized recreational activities are allowed at the Magnolia Ranch Trailhead, including hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. At 23 miles, the unpaved section of the El Dorado Trail is considerably longer: it runs from the western boundary to the depot at the County Historical Railroad Park in the city of El Dorado.
The South Fork American River has a 21-mile boating stretch that beginners and experienced boaters can complete in a full day or take at a more leisurely pace over two days. Several river access points can be reached via Highway 49. Henningsen Lotus Park is on the South Fork American River and has a boat launch; it is open daily from 6 a.m. until dusk. If you’re planning to use the launch or visit the park, check the hours before your visit.
An Off-Road Vehicle Route
The Rubicon Trail offers a different kind of route: this 22-mile off-road trail for four-wheel-drive vehicles runs between the Gold Rush town of Georgetown and Lake Tahoe. Unlike the hiking and river options mentioned above, it is designed for motorized off-road vehicles. Check trail conditions, stewardship restrictions and seasonal access before setting out. This makes it easy to choose among El Dorado’s very different activities based on your interests: Gold Rush history, agricultural traditions, trails on foot or on the water, and an off-road route.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Placerville, South Lake Tahoe, Pollock Pines, Upper Forni, Cameron Park, Pilot Hill, Camino, El Dorado Hills, Coloma, Shingle Springs, Somerset, Echo Lake, Kyburz, Rescue.
For the main travel overview: California.
