Top 5 places to go Huckleberry Picking in Bozeman

If you have spent any time at all in Montana, you will know we love to put huckleberries in EVERYTHING!  Whether it is ice cream, cocktails, pies, or jam, it is a local favorite.  What you may not know is where to find these delectable berries. Bozemanites are very secretive about their spots, but I'm of the belief that everyone should experience huckleberry picking (and eating) at some point in their life, so here are my top 5 spots!

1. Grotto Falls


This is an easy hike with great reward in mid to early August! Head up to Hyalite and start searching!  If you go on the trail to Grotto and Arch falls, you should be greeted with a great, purple surprise!



2. Spanish Peaks Trail


This is a loved (and well-hiked) trail by horse riders, hikers, and runners as it is fairly flat (for a mountain hike) and greeted with stunning Mirror Lake 4.5 (or so) miles up. The good news? You don't have to go that far to find huckleberries!  Keep your eyes pealed- there are already some!


3. Lava Lake


I am going to be honest and say I have never been here, but I have heard good things! Just like at any of these spots, you will probably have to go off trail to pick any, as the majority of the hucks close by have been picked.


4. Brackett Creek

Here, you can start the Bangtail Divide Trail (a beautiful 23 mile trail that leads you to Stone Creek).  Although moderately trafficked, if you look hard enough you may find some huckleberries!

5. Leverich Canyon

Although this trail is commonly done by bikers, try it out on foot to allow yourself more time to look for huckleberries!  This beautiful, narrow canyon not too far South of Bozeman, follows a creek for the first half of the hike and then presents you with great views of Bozeman, Sourdough Canyon and the Bridger Mountain Range on top!