Even though it's only August, it's already starting to feel like fall in El Dorado County, because Apple Hill season is officially underway.

What began in 1964 with just 16 apple ranches has now grown into more than 50 family-run farms, drawing crowds from across the region. Every year, nearly 1.9 million visitors flock to the foothills to pick apples, sip cider, and enjoy the autumn atmosphere.

For many, Apple Hill has become a family tradition. At Rainbow Orchards, Christa Campbell has been frying up hot apple cider donuts since 1977. She says the best part is watching families return year after year.

"We've been here so long we now have multiple generations coming back for donuts," Campbell said. "People tell me, 'I came as a kid, I brought my grandparents and now they're bringing th

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