Potatoes? Sure, we know the Gem State is known for the starchy vegetable. But for many individuals, it's all about the huckleberry and huckleberry season in Idaho! The huckleberry was officially named the state fruit in 2010 ... and is it any wonder why? We love huckleberries and all things containing them. However, the best part about enjoying this delicious berry is the adventure of finding it. It's notoriously difficult to cultivate huckleberries commercially on farms. The main method of obtaining them is going out and picking them in the wild — the old-fashioned way.
Since huckleberries thrive at higher elevations, going into the mountains is an absolute must. But when is Huckleberry season, anyway? Huckleberry season in Idaho usually begins in mid-June and goes through August. Obviously, this can vary based on temperature, precipitation, and other factors. Many Idahoans are pretty tight-lipped about their favorite huckleberry-picking spots. After all, it's tough not to be greedy about these juicy fruits! This list contains some good places for you to start huckleberry picking in Idaho.
1. Coeur d'Alene National Forest
Finding a huckleberry patch can be fairly challenging. However, once you do find the patch, the fruits themselves tend to be quite abundant.
If you're searching where to pick huckleberries in Idaho, the Coeur d'Alene mountains are especially known for their great quantity of the fruit. Most people's strategy is to pick a hiking trail, like the lengthy Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, and follow it until you spot a berry bush!
2. Priest Lake
Looking for "huckleberry picking near me?" When it comes to berry picking, it doesn't get much better than Northern Idaho. Priest Lake is one of our favorite towns to visit in the summer in Idaho.
This is such a great excursion, particularly if you're looking to camp overnight. It's not hard to find a treasure trove of huckleberry bushes here. There's plenty for everyone!
3. Ponderosa State Park
Just outside of McCall, Ponderosa State Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Idaho. Does anything sound better than spending the day in a beautiful forest scavenging for berries? We think not.
4. Teton Valley
The Teton Valley is located on the western slope of the Teton Mountains. This is a spectacularly beautiful region.
Seasoned berry pickers know that if you can sniff a sweet tartness in the air, berries are nearby. So follow your nose to the prize!
5. Huckleberry Creek, Sawtooth Mountains
The aptly named Huckleberry Creek is a great spot for huckleberry picking. Its remote location ensures a certain amount of solitude while you're out searching for berries. However, human Idahoans aren't the only lovers of huckleberries. This is a spot you'll want to watch out for bears at!
Have you been huckleberry picking in Idaho during huckleberry season? Do you feel comfortable sharing your favorite spot? What do you do with the berries you pick? Tell us in the comments!
If you plan on going for a hike to pick huckleberries out in the wild, check out our Ultimate Hiking Packing List for everything you'll need before hitting the trails.
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