The leaves are changing colors, the weather is cooling down, and fall is in the air. It’s the perfect time to take a weekend trip from Sacramento to enjoy quintessential autumn activities. Here are 5 fun and scenic destinations within driving distance from California’s capital city
Apple Hill
No fall trip from Sacramento is complete without a journey to Apple Hill in Camino. Just an hour’s drive east, you’ll find numerous orchards, farms, bake shops, cider mills, and wineries amidst gorgeous fall foliage. Fill up on apple pie, go apple picking, take a hayride, and stock up on cider and preserves.
Lake Tahoe
Head up to the sapphire blue waters of Lake Tahoe, about 2.5 hours from Sacramento. Rent a kayak or boat, go hiking to take in colorful mountain views, relax with a drink on a lakeside patio, or try your luck at the casinos. Don’t miss the scenic drive around Emerald Bay. Given Tahoe is between the busiest seasons of summer and winter, you can really enjoy the peaceful gorgeous fall here.
Gold Country
Step back in time with a trip to Gold Country in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Tour old mining towns like Sutter Creek, Angel’s Camp, and Columbia. Pan for gold, ride the historic rails, and take in the oak-dotted, rolling hillsides ablaze in fall foliage.
Amador County Wine Country
Visit the rolling vineyards, Gold Rush towns, and numerous wineries of Amador County. Many tasting rooms are set in charming old stone buildings. Try Barbera and Zinfandel wines as you soak up the autumn scenery.
Go Paddleboarding at Lake Natoma
Fall is still pretty warm in the region and a great time to enjoy some water sports. Take a river cruise or kayak tour with companies like Hornblower Cruises or Kayak Shack. Float down the American River.
Hiking
Hit the trails to see fall foliage at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Sutter’s Landing, or Folsom Lake Recreational Area. My favorite are Darrington Trail and anything around Salmon Falls
Be a tourist in Sacramento
This wonderful food walking tour will help you appreciate all that Sac culinary scene has to offer. An alternative for mural lovers is Downtown Sacramento Mural and Art Walking Tour https://viator.tp.st/r9apTjlo
Bonus. Yosemite National Park
It’s a stretch to call it a day trip, but its worth an epic mention anyway. Take in towering granite cliffs, roaring waterfalls and golden meadows on a fall escape to Yosemite, 4 hours from Sacramento. Hike forest trails, picnic under giant sequoias, or reflect on natural beauty. Yosemite is magical with autumn’s touch.
Where will your autumn adventures take you this year? Grab a pumpkin spice latte, pack a sweater, and hit the road to make the most of fall while it lasts. Let us know your favorite weekend trip destinations from Sacramento to enjoy this lovely season!
