Bigfoot's Friend

If you’ve ever ventured into the Pacific Northwest or the Northern Rocky Mountains, you’ve likely encountered huckleberry-themed souvenirs and snacks – they are in nearly every shop in some small towns. From tart syrups to sweet pies and candies, it’s easy to see that people take some real pride in this unique berry. However, if you aren’t familiar with the Northwestern states where these grow, you may be thinking to yourself “What the heck is a huckleberry?” I’m here to give you some insight on the mountains best kept secret – the huckleberry bush.

Finding My First Huckleberry:

My husband and I picked up the hobby of mushroom foraging in the springtime a few years back and it quickly became our full-time obsession. Our adventures led us down long trails, through dense forests, and across some breathtaking views, but it was the hunt of hidden treasures in the forest (more specifically, morel mushrooms) that kept us going. Little did we know, our fascination with fungi would soon lead us to an accidental encounter with the legendary huckleberry.

One early summer afternoon, while our friend from the city was visiting, we set out on a familiar trail, hoping to find mushrooms to show our buddy how we occupy our time out here in the sticks. As we meandered through the forest, scanning the underbrush for signs of mushrooms, a bright color caught my eye – a small, purple berry nestled among the leaves of bushes that I had walked by dozens of times before without ever noticing. I paused to examine it closer, only to see that we were surrounded by huckleberry bushes packed with ripe berries!

Despite our excitement, we soon realized that we knew very little about these mysterious berries. With no prior research on wild berries, we found ourselves embarking on an impromptu foraging expedition, prepared with nothing but ziplock bags and curiosity. Since we had no prior knowledge, we wanted to be sure what we found were indeed huckleberries before we started eating any. As soon as we returned to cellphone service I sent a picture of our findings to the most reliable source I know; my mom. Moments later she responded and we got confirmation that we had stumbled upon our next obsessive hobby… Huckleberries. 

What Is A Huckleberry? 

Huckleberries, as it turns out, are more than just your average berry. They are cousins to the blueberries we all know and love, however, huckleberries grow in pretty exclusive terrains which makes it nearly impossible to mass-produce them the way we can with blueberries.

They grow on shrubs generally ranging from 2 to 3 feet tall, with delicate stems and dark green leaves that turn to a speckled gold in the fall. The berries themselves vary in color from light red to deep purple, with the latter being the most coveted among foragers. 

Huckleberry season usually lasts 6-8 weeks in the summertime and the best place to find them is up in the mountains in areas around 5,000 feet. Huckleberries thrive in higher elevations, and from what I have discovered, the higher you’re willing to climb, the bigger and better berries you’re going to find.

Bursting with flavor, huckleberries are known for their special combination of sweetness and tartness, with ten small edible seeds nestled within each berry and a trademark circular “stamp” at the top. 

Why Are Huckleberries So Special? 

What makes huckleberries truly special is their elusive nature. Despite numerous attempts to cultivate them, these wild berries seem to refuse to be tamed. It can take up to 7 years for a wild huckleberry bush to produce fruit from seed, and it is very uncommon for a domesticated huckleberry bush to produce fruit – at all. From the acidity of the soil to the level of sunlight, huckleberries grow when, where, and however they choose, refusing to be tamed by humanity. 

Generally, you won’t be able to find fresh huckleberries in stores (and if you do, it’s only for 1-2 months out of the year in certain rural locations) which makes them highly desireable and seems to ignite the competitive nature of some foragers. Usually when someone finds a good spot to pick huckleberries they are very reluctant to share the location out of fear that other foragers will pick the bushes clean before they can.

The biggest competetors for huckleberries next to other foragers, however, are bears. Black bears and grizzly bears are known for their berry loving nature, which means you’ll want to be on the look out while you’re out in the bushes!

Honestly though, it’s hard to find a way to cheat at finding huckleberries, which is part of what makes it such a special hobby. You really have to put in the footwork if you want success, and it only makes the berries that much sweeter when you find them. 

Check out my other post When, Where, And How To Find Huckleberries for more information and tips on finding and idetifying hucks!  

Huckleberries Local Fame 

For generations, these berries have been prized for their delicious flavor and their nutritional value since they are loaded with vitamins C and A which makes them a great antioxidant. Huckleberry picking is a common tradition (and competition) in the summertime, spending time with your loved ones tucked away in the mountains for hours, working together to be able to bring home a brag-worthy amount of berries and stained-purple fingers. 

Over time, huckleberries have become an integral part of our local cuisine, best enjoyed in jams, pies, syrups, and other delectable treats. Today, huckleberries are cherished by foragers, chefs, and outdoor enthusiasts alike, serving as a symbol of the untamed beauty and bounty of the Northwestern wilderness.

In conclusion, huckleberries are one nature’s best hidden gems, offering a unique blend of flavor, mystery, and cultural significance. Whether you’re a seasoned forager or a curious explorer, these wild berries grow from the heart of the wilderness, waiting to be discovered amidst rugged landscapes and untamed forests. From their one-of-a-kind taste to their elusive nature, huckleberries seem to ignite a sense of wonder in all who seek them out. 

So, the next time you find yourself amidst the majestic landscapes of the Northwestern United States, keep an eye out for these elusive purple gems – you never know what adventures they may inspire.

Happy huckleberry picking!

-Jessica C.