Few experiences are more satisfying than trudging through the woods on a hot summer day and discovering a patch of untouched huckleberry bushes, every twig bejeweled with the plump, juicy, reddish-purple fruit that tastes like summer in the mountains.
The huckleberry is a cousin of the blueberry but richer in the purple pigments associated with antioxidants. Huckleberries also have a tangier flavor profile that makes them perfect for baking into pies, blending into milkshakes and simmering into jams, syrups and sauces. More importantly, they are a major food source for bears and other critters that live in our region.
Huckleberry bushes are notoriously fickle plants that grow only in the wild. Because they're in high demand, scientists have tried for decades to domesticate them! And foraging for hucks is all a matter of timing; the berries typically ripen earlier at lower elevations while those up high are still green. The picking season can fluctuate, but the ripest berries are usually found between late July and mid-September.
Thankfully, we don't have to travel far to find these sweet-tart treasures. Whitefish Mountain Resort, which is partially located on the Flathead National Forest, has an abundance of huckleberry bushes scattered across its slopes. It's a great way to spend an hour or two while you're on the mountain enjoying our family-friendly summer activities, like Zip Line Tours and Alpine Slides!
Here are seven ways to make the most of your huckleberry picking experience:
1. Come prepared!
Closed-toed shoes, bug spray, sunscreen and a water bottle are must-haves. Long sleeves can prevent branches from scratching your arms and legs.
2. Remember this is bear country!
Carry bear spray, bring a partner and chat while you pick; the noise will alert any bears to your presence and help prevent a surprise encounter.
3. Bring the right container!
Bring a food storage container with a tight-fitting lid or a water bottle with a wide mouth, such as a Nalgene. Clipping your berry container to a belt loop or backpack strap ensures your hands are free for picking.
4. Take only what you need!
While we understand the urge to fill a giant bucket with huckleberries, it's best to leave some on the bushes for the next pickers — and the wildlife.
5. Pick with your hands!
Don't use rakes or other tools that can damage the plants.
6. Stay on designated hiking routes!
Huckleberries can be found along the Danny On Memorial Trail, the Flower Point Loop and the East Rim Loop. Never stop in intersections with bike trails. Mountain bikers move fast and collisions can cause serious injury.
7. Visit the Summit Nature Center!
To learn more about huckleberries and other plants and animals that live on Big Mountain, pop in to the U.S. Forest Service's Summit Nature Center on the lower level of the Summit House. There you can explore hands-on exhibits or join a forest ranger on an interpretive nature walk! The Summit House also offers a tasty lunch menu and a full bar so you can toast to a day well spent.