There’s plenty to do this summer in El Dorado County! Find the perfect activity for your family in this list!
-Visit Apple Hill
-Whitewater Rafting
-World Gold Panning Championships
-Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
Apple Hill
Apple Hill Ranches are a great place to go this summer with the entire family! There are over 50 ranches, all with different activities for kids and parents alike. From picking apples and berries, to pony rides and scavenger hunts, your kids will have a blast here all day! For parents, the ranches boast a spa, a micro-brewery, and a winery, which will make for quite a relaxing day.
The ranches are located just northeast of Placerville CA … about half-way between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe.
East on Highway 50 from Sacramento: Recommended exits are Exits 48, 49 and 54. There are signs on Highway 50 to direct you.
West on Highway 50 from South Lake Tahoe: Recommended exits are 54, 49 and 48. There are signs on Highway 50 to direct you.
From Highway 80 in Auburn: Take Highway 49 South to Highway 50 East. There are signs on Highway 50 to direct you.
Whitewater Rafting
There are numerous outfitters that offer whitewater rafting trips for kids ages 7 to 75. You can go from a half-day excursion, up to a two-day adventure. It’s up to you! You’ll see breath-taking views and plenty of wildlife while on your rafting trip. Navigating the American River is sure to be a thrill for the whole family!
http://visit-eldorado.com/river-rafting.php
World Gold Panning Championships
World Gold Panning Championships will be coming to El Dorado County this September. It only seems fitting, as this is where the California gold rush began. 600 competitors from 30 different countries will come together to compete for the win. Along with getting to watch the competition, there will also be tours of the gold mines, a parade, a car show, and a chili cook-off! This event will be held at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. This is a fun filled event that you do not want to miss.
100 Placerville Drive
Placerville, CA 95667
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
Come spend the day hiking, picnicking, and panning for gold in the very place James W. Marshall found shining flecks of gold in dirt when building a sawmill. There are often special events happening at this state park as well. Living History Days is held on the second Saturday of the month, and the annual Coloma Gold Rush Live will be September 15-18 during the previously mentioned Gold Panning Championships. These events will be fun AND educational! Get your family together and try to strike it rich at the gold mines!
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=484
310 Back Street
Coloma, CA 95613
Whatever type of activities your family enjoys, you are sure to find something here in El Dorado County that will be a hit! School is out, and it’s time to enjoy summer!
