The Best Huckleberry Picking Spots in Oregon’s Forests
Oregon’s lush forests are a huckleberry lover’s treasure chest just waiting to be unlocked. As the hot summer days start giving way to autumn’s chill, these delightful little gems start showing their rich, dark colors, promising a tasty harvest to those willing to seek them out.
1. Mount Hood National Forest
Look no further than the famished slopes of Mount Hood National Forest for some of the state’s best huckleberry spots. Trails like the Umbrella Falls Trail and the Tamanawas Falls Trail are delightfully dense with huckleberry bushes. Just remember to take some time to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area as well.
2. High Cascades
Head south towards the High Cascades for a huckleberry bonanza. The trails around Diamond Peak and Willamette Pass are loaded with huckleberry bushes in late summer. It’s a bit of a trek but the reward is a huckleberry picker’s dream.
3. Blue River Reservoir Area
Found in the Willamette National Forest, the Blue River Reservoir area offers not only huckleberries but the added bonus sparkling blue water views. You could spend an entire day here, alternating between picking and picnicking by the reservoir before heading to the nearby McKenzie River’s hot springs to relax.
4. Huckleberry Mountain
As the name suggests, Huckleberry Mountain in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest is a fine place to fill your pail. The aptly named Huckleberry Loop Trail is a prime picking route. Do abide by the forest’s rule to leave plenty for wildlife, though.
5. Strawberry Lake Area
Nestled in Malheur National Forest, the lush sub-alpine meadows that surround Strawberry Lake give way to a dense undergrowths riddled with huckleberries. It’s not uncommon to walk away with a hefty haul from just a few hours of picking!
6. Crater Lake National Park
Yes, even Crater Lake National Park, Oregon’s only national park, has a huckleberry bounty. Trails on the park’s west side like The Pinnacles and Plaikni Falls will give you the best berry sights, and the stunning lake views are a bonus.
7. Tillamook State Forest
Closer to the coast, Tillamook State Forest is a lesser-known huckleberry haven. There is a good concentration of huckleberries alongside the Wilson River Trail, which winds along the picturesque Wilson River. Keep an eye out for the coveted evergreen huckleberries here.
8. Indian Heaven Wilderness
Cross the state line into Washington and experience the huckleberry extravaganza of the Indian Heaven Wilderness, just north of the Columbia River Gorge. Legendary among locals, this area is so bountiful it’s been a harvesting spot for local native tribes for centuries.
9. Badger Creek Wilderness
Occupying the eastern slopes of the Cascade Range, Badger Creek Wilderness is a quaint spot for quality huckleberry picking. Consider the 12-mile round trip Badger Creek Trail, it’s long but laden with juicy berry clusters.
10. Umpqua National Forest
Lastly, but by no means least, don’t overlook Umpqua National Forest in southern Oregon. Particularly, the warm southern slopes of Calapooya Divide are abundant with ripe huckleberries from late summer through fall.
Now go forth, fellow huckleberry enthusiasts! With a bountiful harvest ahead, may your buckets be full, your hearts light, and don’t forget to leave a few for our forest-dwelling friends. Here’s to the huckleberry, Oregon’s delicious hidden gem!