If you’re in Orangevale, California, craving the crisp taste of fresh apples or the tangy zip of hard cider, you might wonder where to go. Well, buckle up because we’re about to take a little road trip to Hidden Star Orchards in Camino, California. It’s about an hour’s drive from Orangevale, but trust me, it’s worth every mile.
The Journey
As you leave the suburbs of Orangevale behind, you’ll wind through the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The scenery changes from urban sprawl to rolling hills dotted with oak trees and, eventually, apple orchards. It’s like watching a time-lapse video of California’s landscape history, minus the grainy footage and cheesy music.
Arrival at Hidden Star Orchards
When you pull up to Hidden Star Orchards, you’ll be greeted by a sight that makes you want to break out into a chorus of “Old MacDonald Had a Farm.” The quaint barn taproom looks like it jumped out of a storybook about idyllic country life. But don’t be fooled by its rustic charm – this place is all about modern flavor with a side of tradition.
The Cider Barn: Where Magic Happens
Step into the taproom, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered apple heaven. With 24 varieties of hard cider on tap, you might do a happy little jig. Whether you prefer your cider dry, sweet, or somewhere in between, they’ve got you covered.
Let’s talk about some of these ciders, shall we? How about a “Bourbon Whiskey Ancho Chili Jalapeño Pepper” cider with a 12.2% ABV punch? It’s like a fiesta in your mouth, minus the sombreros. Or maybe you’re feeling fancy and want to try the “Cider Wine Pinot Noir” – it’s the lovechild of wine and cider and fabulous.
For those who like their cider with a twist, there’s the “Beery IPA” cider. It’s like your favorite IPA and apple had a delicious baby. And if you’re feeling tropical, the “Passion Fruit” cider might transport you to a beach in Hawaii (lei and coconut bra not included).
More Than Just Cider
But wait, there’s more! Hidden Star Orchards isn’t just about getting drunk on apple juice (although that’s a perfectly respectable goal). They also offer a bakery that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Picture this: you’re sitting at a picnic table with a panoramic view before you, munching on a classic apple cider doughnut. Life doesn’t get much better than that, folks. Unless, of course, you add a slice of their homemade pie to the mix. Then you’re living in a Norman Rockwell painting but with better food.
Fun for the Whole Family
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But what about the kids? I can’t exactly take them to a cider mill and let them sample the goods.” Fear not, responsible parent! Hidden Star Orchards has thought of everything. There’s a children’s play area under the pine trees where the little ones can burn off energy while you sample the cider. It’s a win-win situation.
And for those of you with four-legged family members, good news! Well-behaved dogs are welcome. So Fido can come along for the ride and enjoy the fresh air (just don’t let him near the cider – we all know how Uncle Bob gets at family reunions after a few too many).
The Hidden Star Experience
What sets Hidden Star Orchards apart isn’t just their cider or doughnuts (although those are pretty darn good). It’s the whole experience. From the moment you arrive, you’re transported to a simpler time, when people knew where their food came from, when “farm-to-table” wasn’t a trendy restaurant concept but just how things were done.
As you sit there, sipping your cider and watching the sunset over the orchards, you might wonder why you don’t do this more often and don’t take the time to slow down to appreciate the simple things in life. Like apples. And cider. And doughnuts. (Okay, maybe it’s just the cider talking now.)
Planning Your Visit
Hidden Star Camino is open year-round, but their hours vary by season. From December to August, they’re open Friday through Sunday and on holiday Mondays from 9 am to 6 pm. During peak apple season (September through November), they’re open daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Remember to leave the picnic basket at home – they have a strict “no outside food or drink” policy. But with all the goodies they offer, why would you want to bring your own anyway?
So, next time you’re in Orangevale and feel the call of the apple orchard, drive out to Hidden Star Orchards. It’s more than just a cider mill – a little slice of apple paradise. Remember to bring a designated driver because, with 24 ciders on tap, you will want to try them all. Cheers!
Sources: hiddenstarorchards.com, Hidden Star Orchards Facebook Page, Hidden Star Orchards Instagram Page
Header Image Source: hiddenstarorchards.com
