If you’re looking for a taste of fall in Northern California, look no further than High Hill Ranch. While not exactly in Citrus Heights, this apple paradise is worth the roughly 45-mile drive to Placerville. It’s the perfect excuse for a day trip that makes you feel like you’ve entered an autumn wonderland.
The Big Apple (Farm) of Apple Hill
High Hill Ranch isn’t just any old apple farm—it’s the biggest and most visited spot in the Apple Hill area. Spread out over 155 acres, this place is like Disneyland for apple lovers. It’s been serving apple-y goodness since 1960, so the farmers have had plenty of time to perfect their craft.
Apples, Apples Everywhere
Let’s talk about the star of the show: the apples. High Hill Ranch grows some of the crispiest, juiciest apples you’ll ever sink your teeth into. But they don’t stop at just selling fresh apples. Oh no, they’ve turned apple-eating into an art form.
Picture this: you’re biting into a warm, freshly baked apple donut, the sugar melting on your tongue. Or maybe you’re digging into a slice of apple pie so packed with fruit that it could be a serving of vegetables (okay, maybe not, but we can dream). And don’t even get me started on their apple fritters – they’re the stuff of legend.
More Than Just Apples
But wait, there’s more! High Hill Ranch isn’t a one-trick pony. They’ve got a whole array of activities to keep you entertained:
- Fishing in their pond (because nothing goes better with apples than… fish?)
- Pony rides for the kiddos (or adults who can pass for kids; we don’t judge)
- Hayrides for that authentic farm experience
- Face painting, because why not?
- Candle making, for when you want your house to smell like apples year-round
And if you’re feeling parched after all that apple-eating, they’ve got you covered with fresh-pressed apple cider. For the grown-ups, there’s even hard cider and wine. Because nothing says “adult fall fun” like apple-based booze, right?
Shop ‘Til You Drop
If you’re the type who likes to bring a piece of your adventure home (besides the inevitable food baby), High Hill Ranch has got you covered. They host Northern California’s largest craft fair, with over 60 artists showcasing their wares. From handmade jewelry to leather goods, you’re bound to find something that catches your eye. You might even find the perfect Christmas gift for that hard-to-shop-for aunt.
When to Visit
High Hill Ranch kicks off its season in mid-August and keeps the apple party going until Christmas Eve. They’re open daily, but if you want to catch all the activities, weekends are your best bet. Just be prepared for crowds – this place is popular for a reason.
On weekdays, you can stroll around from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. But on weekends, they open an hour earlier at 8 a.m. and stay open until 6 p.m. That’s two extra hours of apple-munching time!
The Cherry on Top (or Should We Say, the Apple on Top?)
One of the coolest additions to High Hill Ranch is its brand-new deck overlooking the pond. It’s the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy your apple goodies while enjoying the view. And let’s be honest: After all that apple-eating and activity-doing, you’ll need a breather.
Getting There
To get to this apple wonderland from Citrus Heights, head east on Highway 50 toward Placerville. Once you’re in Placerville, follow the signs to Apple Hill, and you’ll find High Hill Ranch at 2901 High Hill Road. Trust me, your nose will probably lead you there before your GPS does.
So, there you have it – High Hill Ranch’s apple-filled glory. It’s a bit of a drive from Citrus Heights, but well worth the trip. Where else can you eat your weight in apple donuts, go fishing, and buy handmade crafts all in one day? So grab your friends, family, or just your appetite, and head to High Hill Ranch. Don’t blame me when you come back with more apples than you know what to do with and a newfound addiction to apple cider. Happy apple-ing!
Sources: highhillranch.com, Apple Hill | High Hill Ranch Facebook Page, Apple Hill | High Hill Ranch Instagram Page
Header Image Source: highhillranch.com
