El Dorado County

Welcome to El Dorado County

A charming area close to town that is tucked in for exclusivity Named in Spanish to mean “the gilded,” this alluring destination nestled amid the snow-capped peaks and rolling hills of Sierra Nevada in east-central California is known as the birthplace of the California Gold Rush. Draped in serenity and breathtaking scenery, El Dorado County touts multifarious communities with diverse characters and unique treasures. The area is flowing with great rivers and placid lakes, as well as charming old towns and a thriving business climate with opportunities for everyone. Since the 1960 Winter Olympics held at the former Squaw Valley Ski Resort, El Dorado County has seen growth not only in population but also in property values and environmental protection initiatives. Evergreen parks, ski resorts, and racing venues ensure locals are never out of fun activities to indulge in, while sophistication and luxury permeate the county’s abundant wineries. A unique blend of ranch homes, country cabins, and modern farmhouses characterize the predominant residential structures in the county, set against a backdrop of mature trees with some properties tucked behind private, gated estates. Easily accessible from four separate state routes and Highway 50, traveling to and from El Dorado County to neighboring places is a breeze.

What to Love

• Proximity to major highways
• Big city amenities in a rural setting
• Verdant rolling hills
• Stellar wineries

Local Lifestyle

Rural and gorgeous, El Dorado County sits close to everything — especially Highway 50, which leads you into the state capital. A relaxed atmosphere permeates the county, even while lots of hiking and outdoor activities abound in the parks, trails, and lakes. Families revel in the comfort of knowing their children have access to some of the best schools in the state while getting to grow up among people with strong work ethics and great community values. Couple these qualities with a remarkable pride of ownership, and you get an oasis of natural wonders perfect for a lowkey, meaningful lifestyle

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

So much shopping abounds in El Dorado County that it’d be impossible to ever run out of options. Don’t know where to start? Why not begin at Placerville Downtown? Locals and tourists can’t stop raving about the homemade pecan cinnamon rolls at Sweetie Pies Bakery, and once you’ve had a bite, you’ll know exactly why! Relish the flavors of El Dorado County at Apple Hill’s annual grower’s Farm-To-Table Dinner at Delfino farms. People say the best shopping South of Lake Tahoe can be found at the Village Center. A trip through the destination’s gift shops, galleries, boutiques, and beauty salons will help you understand why. Plan a visit to one or all of El Dorado County’s 70+ wineries. Gold Hill Vineyard is a local favorite for weddings, and Madroña Vineyards is known for delicious wine dinners. Jodar Winery overlooks the American River Canyon.

Things to Do

Don’t miss out on the family fun and excitement at the El Dorado County Fair, spanning the course of four days with every imaginable activity ranging from live, interactive exhibits to mutton Bustin’, free train rides, a funnel cake eating contest, and thrilling musical performances. Wrap up summer with a day at the Placerville Antique Street Faire and Vintage Marketplace, when Main Street sprawls with remarkable antique displays from various vendors. Whether you’re on the lookout for books, furniture, accessories, or even Gold Rush memorabilia, you can find what you’re looking for here! Apple Hill is beloved for its u-pick Apple orchards and beautiful fall foliage, so bring your family for a season of fun-filled activities. Looking for a way to relax after a day spent sliding down the ski slopes of the Heavenly Ski Resort? Try your luck at popular casino tables of MontBleu or Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, as the south shore of Lake Tahoe is known as the cradle of some of the Stateline’s biggest casinos!

Schools

El Dorado County is served by a number of excellent school districts, as well as many great private schools. Some of the County’s top educational choices include:

• American River College (Sacramento)
• Sunset Ranch Elementary School 
• Marina Village Middle School
• Oak Ridge High School
• El Dorado Adventist School