Is The Heatwave Damaging This Year’s Montana Huckleberry Crop?

Montana Huckleberry Season Is Here

In Montana, right around July/August, Huckleberries start getting ripe for the picking. Generally harvested in August, the berries can be ready as soon as mid July depending on conditions and where they're growing.

Get our free mobile app

This Season Has Been A Bit Hard On The Berries

Montana experienced the late frost which had some Huck lovers very concerned. Turns out Huckleberry Bushes are just as hardy as any permanent resident of Montana. It was reported that some top damage could be seen on some bushes, but it wasn't too bad.

Now, with the heat wave Montana has been in the last couple of weeks, there's some worry that the popular berry may turn into a raisin on the bush.

It's Been Remodeled! Cool Off At Big Sky Water Park When Berry Picking

Montana Right Now interviewed James West Willows, the owner of Willow’s Huckland in Hungry Horse.  Willows said, “It's (huckleberries) really not ripe yet. So, this heat is actually ripening them up and if we get a rain even in 10-14 days. It could all still work out really good,".  Willows went on to ad that with the heat wave, we could have the price of Huckleberries rise this year.  

What's A Huckleberry Lover To Do?

Start checking your favorite spots for the ripe berries. If they ARE ripening this early, they may all be gone by August when the heavy picking usually happens.

LOOK! Montana Airbnbs With A Pool

Always keep in mind that our friend the bear is also a big fan of Montana Huckleberries.  If you are headed out to pick those yummy sweet delights, make sure you have everything you need, like bear spray, to stay safe.

Happy picking!