El Dorado Hills, California

Located near the eastern edge of Sacramento County, El Dorado Hills is a beautiful and affluent community that offers visitors plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, shopping, and dining. As a popular destination, it’s important to explore the best places to visit and which locales to avoid.

Places to Visit

1. Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

With over 19,500 acres of parkland and more than 75 miles of shoreline, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and picnicking with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

2. El Dorado Hills Town Center

The heart of the community, El Dorado Hills Town Center, features a mix of local shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Visitors can grab a cup of coffee, peruse boutiques, catch a movie, or attend one of the many community events held throughout the year.

3. Lake Natoma

Located on the American River, Lake Natoma provides visitors with stunning scenery and recreational opportunities such as kayaking, rafting, and stand-up paddleboarding. The park also has trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

4. Serrano Country Club

One of the top-rated golf courses in Northern California, the Serrano Country Club offers an 18-hole championship golf course with breathtaking views and challenging play. Visitors can also enjoy the club’s luxurious spa, fitness center, and dining options.

5. Placerville Downtown Association

Just a short drive from El Dorado Hills, the Placerville Downtown Association offers visitors a glimpse into California’s rich gold rush history with charming shops, galleries, restaurants, and historical landmarks. Don’t miss the El Dorado County Historical Museum and Placerville Hardware Store, established in 1854.

6. Red Hawk Casino

For those who enjoy gaming, Red Hawk Casino offers over 2,500 slot machines, table games, and poker rooms, along with several dining options and live entertainment.

7. El Dorado Trail

A popular hiking and biking trail, the El Dorado Trail offers visitors 35 miles of scenic views through the historic towns and countryside of El Dorado County.

8. Bass Lake Park

This serene park offers visitors a chance to fish, hike, and take in the beautiful scenery of the Sierra Nevada foothills. The park is also home to numerous picnic areas and campsites, making it an ideal spot for a family outing.

9. Gold Hill Vineyard and Brewery

Gold Hill Vineyard and Brewery offers visitors wine and beer tastings with stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and hills. The family-owned winery also hosts special events and live music throughout the year.

10. Hangtown Fry

While not a specific location, the Hangtown Fry is a local dish not to be missed. This infamous breakfast dish includes a mix of eggs, bacon, and oysters and can be found at several local eateries throughout the area.

Places to Avoid

1. Walmart

The local Walmart in El Dorado Hills has a reputation for being overcrowded, understaffed, and sometimes chaotic.

2. El Dorado Hills Sports Club

While the facility has a lot to offer in terms of fitness and sports, visitors have reported issues with cleanliness and upkeep, along with overpriced membership fees.

3. Shopping Centers during Holidays

El Dorado Hills’ shopping centers can become incredibly crowded during the holidays, with long lines and limited parking.

4. Traffic on Highways

The area’s highways, including Highway 50 and Interstate 80, can experience heavy traffic during peak hours and weekends, causing frustration and delays.

5. Lake Clementine Trail

While the Lake Clementine Trail offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding area, it can be an extremely challenging hike with steep inclines and rocky terrain.

Overview about El Dorado Hills