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Best Blueberry Picking is in Beltrami State Forest

Delicious Fresh Blueberries- Where and How to Find the Best Blueberry Picking

Spend an afternoon in Beltrami State Forest for the BEST Blueberry Picking

Beltrami State Forest is located in the northernmost region of Northwest Minnesota, about a 25-minute drive from Roseau, MN. If you are looking to enjoy the simple things, considerheading to the forest for the best blueberry picking.  It’s simply one of the most delightful experiences in late July- during the peak season. Let me take you on a journey through a perfect day in this beautiful forest, where the air is fresh, the skies are clear, and the blueberries are ripe for the picking.

Best blueberry picking

Blueberry Picking - Let the Adventure Begin

As the sun rises over the dense canopy of Beltrami State Forest, the morning light filters through the trees, casting a golden hue over the forest floor. The forest comes alive with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Armed with baskets and an eager spirit, we set off on a trail leading us deep into the heart of the forest where blueberry bushes thrive. We took our Polaris four-wheelers on the trails, making the journey more accessible and fun. We headed straight to the pines, where we knew the berries were plentiful and prime for picking. Before we started harvesting, we took time for a picnic. The forest, with its tranquil beauty, provides a perfect backdrop for a picnic. My daughter started picking while I prepared lunch. Sitting on a blanket, surrounded by nature, we enjoyed cheese and crackers with fresh berries, savoring their natural sweetness. The snack was just enough to remind me that my rewards would be well worth the picking. Beltrami Forest is known for some of Roseau County’s best blueberry picking. 

Polaris Spring

The Bounty of Berries

Blueberries in Beltrami State Forest are small but packed with flavor. This year, we had record rainfall and cooler-than-normal temperatures, and the berries are small.  But I tell you, these tiny, delicious berries burst with sweetness, making the effort of picking them all the more rewarding. The season for these wild blueberries typically stretches from mid-July to early August, offering a few weeks of prime picking. The berries would mount up faster if I didn’t eat every other handful.  Our family goal for the day was to pick enough berries to make a fresh blueberry pie. 

best blueberry picking

Picking Tips

 

  1. Look for sunny spots: Blueberries thrive in sunny clearings with ample sunlight. Sandy, well-drained soil along a wooded area is a great spot to find them.
  2. Gently pick the ripe ones: Ripe blueberries are deep blue and detach easily from the bush with a gentle tug.
  3. Respect nature: Be mindful of the environment. Only take what you need, leaving plenty for wildlife and other pickers. Watch your step so you do not trample a bush. 
  4. Don’t forget the bug spray, beverages and your patience.
Beltrami

Our Fresh Baked Blueberry Pie Recipe- Simple to Make and Delicious

Back home, the bounty of blueberries transforms into a delicious homemade blueberry pie. Here’s a simple recipe to share the taste of our adventure.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups fresh blueberries
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (for a 9-inch pie)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice until the berries are evenly coated.
  3. Assemble the Pie: Line a 9-inch pie dish with one of the pie crusts. Pour the blueberry mixture into the crust. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
  4. Top Crust: Place the second pie crust over the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
  5. Bake: Bake the pie for about 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
  6. Cool: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the filling to set.
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Enjoy the Little Things

A day spent picking blueberries in Beltrami State Forest is more than just an outdoor activity; it’s a way to connect with nature, enjoy its bounty, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned berry picker or a first-timer, the experience is enriching and the rewards, both the berries and the resulting delicious pie, are absolutely worth it. So grab your basket, head out to the forest, and indulge in the simple pleasures of blueberry picking. Happy picking!

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