There are twelve known species of huckleberries growing in the Cascade Mountain range. They are often grouped into plants that produce red, black, purple or blue berries. The peak season for picking huckleberries occurs between mid-July to early October.

Huckleberries, are highly sought after. They are used in shakes, drinks, ice cream, in muffins and pancakes, in pies and tarts, for jams and jellies and even in lotions and soaps.

For over 100 years harvester’s could pick as many gallons as they desired. Today however a harvester is allowed three gallons of huckleberries free of charge per year. That is three gallons per person in the family. If you have six in your family you can pick eighteen gallons. Which is a lot of berries that can be put up in the freezer plus make a couple of pies for dinner. Native Americans however can still pick unlimited quantities.

If larger quantities are needed, or you plan to sell berries, a permit is required and available at your local Ranger District. Mechanical removal of berries such as combs are not allowed, As combs and rakes or other such devices disturb the well being of the bush.

For centuries, Native American spent summer and fall in the mountains hunting, fishing, picking berries, and celebrating the gifts of the land. Every two years, they burned the berry fields after harvest, to kill invading under brush and to insure healthy fields the following year. Native Americans in the area regarded the rituals of picking, preserving, and eating berries as a cultural event with religious importance.