A unique and diverse agriculture thrives on the picturesque mountainsides in El Dorado County, ranging from oranges and apples to Christmas trees and grapes. The County's climate allows stone fruits to thrive on frost-free mountain ridges and coniferous trees to survive the severist winters.  Luscious cherries, peaches, nectarines, and plums are noteworthy for their tree-ripened perfection.  Apples and pears enjoy their most favorable growing environment, and Christmas Trees couldn't find a more welcome home!

Apple Hill
Apple Hill just east of Placerville is always a popular attraction, particularly in autumn when the lush foliage turns to orange, red, and yellows. There are more than just apples to be found in Apple Hill, there are pies, pumpkins, cider, crafts and much more. Apple Hill opens Labor Day weekend and most of the 56 ranches are open 7 days a week through Christmas. [Business lookup courtesy of the Apple Hill Growers Association]

Resource Link: Apple Hill Growers Association, (530) 644-7692, www.applehill.com 

Christmas Trees
Christmas Trees are spread throughout El Dorado County, at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet. Choose-and-cut operations in the County started in the early 1950's. Blessed with the right soil, climate and rainfall, El Dorado County is a natural place for Christmas Trees to flourish. In 1971 the beautiful Christmas Tree Lane was established along Highway 50, in Placerville, with the trees being donated by the members of the Christmas Tree Growers of El Dorado County. [Business lookup courtesy of the El Dorado County Christmas Tree Growers]

Resource Links: El Dorado County Christmas Tree Growers, (530) 621-5885, www.chooseandcut.com