Photo Source: Apple Hill Growers Association 

1. High Hill Ranch, Apple Hill

https://www.highhillranch.com | IG: @highhillranch_applehill

High Hill Ranch is one of the crown jewels of Apple Hill and a must-visit for families looking to experience the best of fall. This orchard has everything you could want in a day trip: apple picking, fresh cider, hayrides, and a picturesque pond perfect for picnics.

Why We Love High Hill Ranch:

• Variety of Activities: Beyond apple picking, families can enjoy fishing at the pond, pony rides for the little ones, and a craft fair featuring local artisans.
• Delicious Treats: Don’t miss their famous caramel apples and freshly baked apple pies. There’s something special about enjoying these treats right at the source.
• Scenic Views: The beautiful vistas of rolling hills and apple orchards make for fantastic family photos and lasting memories.

2. BOA VISTA ORCHARDS, APPLE HILL

https://boavista.com | IG: @boavistaorchards

Open year-round, Boa Vista Orchards offers a little something for everyone, especially during the fall. This family-operated orchard is known for its expansive selection of fresh produce and seasonal goodies.

Why We Love Boa Vista:

• Apple and Pumpkin Picking: Kids will love choosing their own apples and picking the perfect pumpkin for Halloween.
• Bakery and BBQ: Enjoy a delicious meal at their outdoor BBQ, followed by a visit to the bakery for a taste of their famous apple donuts and turnovers.
• Farm Market: Take home a piece of the orchard with jams, jellies, and fresh-pressed cider, perfect for enjoying long after your visit.

3. APPLE RIDGE FARMS, APPLE HILL 

https://appleridgefarms.com | IG: @appleridgefarms

Apple Ridge Farms (which reopened in late August) is another gem in the heart of Apple Hill, offering a more rustic and intimate experience. This farm is known for its charming country atmosphere and its commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Why We Love Apple Ridge Farms:

• Petting Zoo: The kids will love getting up close and personal with farm animals, making it an educational and fun experience.
• Baked Goods: Their farm stand is stocked with homemade pies, breads, and jams, all made from their own produce.
• Quiet Retreat: If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience away from the larger crowds, Apple Ridge Farms offers a peaceful retreat where you can truly connect with nature. 



4. DELFINO FARMS, APPLE HILL

https://delfinofarms.com | IG: @delfinofarms

Formerly known as Kids Inc., Delfino Farms is a family favorite, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s the perfect spot for families who want to enjoy the beauty of fall with a side of excitement.

Why We Love Delfino Farms:

• Nature Trails: Explore the scenic trails that wind through the orchards and vineyards, perfect for a leisurely walk or an energetic romp with the kids.
• Sweet Delights: Don’t miss their iconic apple cider milkshakes—a unique treat that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
• Wine Tasting for Parents: While the kids enjoy the outdoor activities, parents can relax with a wine tasting experience featuring locally produced wines.

5. FOG WILLOW FARMS, WILTON CA 

http://www.fogwillowfarms.com

Last on our list, but certainly not least is Fog Willow Farms, which is Just a short drive from Sacramento. It offers a quintessential fall experience that’s perfect for families. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, this farm is a favorite spot for annual harvest festivals and events, including our own client appreciation event each year.

Why We Fog Willow Farms:

• Harvest Festival Fun: During the fall, Fog Willow Farms transforms into a lively harvest festival with activities like hayrides, pumpkin patches, and even a petting zoo. It’s the perfect place for kids to run around and enjoy the season.
• Interactive Farm Experience: The farm offers hands-on experiences where kids can learn about farm animals, interact with them, and even see a real working farm in action.
• Perfect for Events: Our clients love Fog Willow Farms for its picturesque setting and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s the ideal location for gatherings.
• Scenic Surroundings: The beautiful farm setting, with its wide-open spaces and charming rustic details, makes for a relaxing and enjoyable day out. It’s also a great backdrop for those memorable family photos.

++++ 3 Easy Fall Recipes w/ Apples and Pumpkin

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy cozy, comforting treats made from the season’s best produce—apples and pumpkins. Here are three simple and delicious recipes that you and your family can enjoy this autumn.

1. Homemade Apple Donuts

Nothing says fall like the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked apple donuts. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weekend treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup finely chopped apples (peeled and cored)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the apple cider, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, and fold in the chopped apples until just combined.
5. Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the donuts cool slightly before removing them from the pan. Enjoy them warm, or dip them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for an extra treat.

2. Spiced Apple Cider

Warm spiced apple cider is the quintessential fall beverage, perfect for sipping on a cool autumn evening. This easy recipe fills your home with the comforting scent of spices and apples.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups apple cider
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 4 whole allspice berries
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 apple, sliced
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, orange slices, and apple slices.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
3. If you like your cider a bit sweeter, stir in the maple syrup.
4. Strain the cider to remove the spices and fruit slices before serving.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick or an orange slice if desired.

3. Pumpkin Chocolate Fudge

This pumpkin chocolate fudge is a rich, decadent treat that combines the creamy texture of fudge with the subtle spiciness of pumpkin. It’s perfect for a sweet fall indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder (optional, for a marbled effect)

Instructions:

1. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and thick.
5. For a marbled effect, set aside 1/4 of the mixture and mix the cocoa powder into it. Spoon dollops of the chocolate mixture over the pumpkin fudge and swirl with a knife.
6. Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
8. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!

These easy fall recipes are perfect for celebrating the season with family and friends. Whether you’re cozying up with a warm mug of spiced apple cider or indulging in a piece of pumpkin chocolate fudge, these treats are sure to bring a little extra joy to your autumn days.