Little Bit of Magic in El Dorado County

DogTrekkers in the know point their paws in fall toward the Apple Hill Growers region north of Highway 50 in El Dorado County near Placerville, where more than 50 member farms open their gates to the public for an applepalooza of festivities centered around the orb-shaped fruit. This year, there’s something new: the Apple Hill Hard Cider Trail, which makes its formal debut Sept. 15 with six producers showcasing their takes on the low-alcohol beverage that is taking America by storm. Read more.

El Dorado County

Named for the mythical city of gold, El Dorado County epitomizes California Gold Country. Its county seat, Placerville, is named for the alluvial deposits in the American River where many a miner struck it rich. The town of Placerville also makes for an interesting visit with its dog-welcoming restaurants, shops and a historic and dog-friendly hotel, Cary House, right in the middle of the action. Read more about El Dorado County in last week’s Highway 50 Gold Country issue. Read more.

Up the Hill in Placerville With Your Furry Sidekick

Dog walking towards hamburger and beer in Placerville

Photo by @tbutcherskitchen.

The El Dorado County seat was named for the alluvial deposits that drew prospectors here during the Gold Rush. It’s nickname, “Hangtown,” relates to the lawlessness of the times. Today, however, it’s one of the most picturesque, bustling and dog-friendly of Gold Country towns. Read more.

The Private Campground Advantage

If pit toilets and DIY tent camping in general aren’t your style, you may find your bliss at one of California’s hundreds of private campgrounds. They range from family-friendly KOAs (Kampgrounds of America), with their swimming pools, playgrounds, camping cabins and dog parks; to luxury “glamping” resorts like AutoCamps in Guerneville and Santa Barbara, where DogTrekkers can overnight in shiny Airstream trailers. And there are many choices in between. Read more.

No Tent or RV? No Problem…

Don’t run out to buy a tent if you don’t know that you’ll enjoy camping and take it up as a regular pastime. Novices who don’t own a full kit of gear can still treat their gang (dog included) to a “soft camping” family adventure. Here are five suggestions for easing your way—sans tent—into America’s favorite summer pastime: Read more.