Get in the Summer Spirit With Berry Picking at Rendezvous Peak Trail in Alaska

One of my favorite things about Alaska has always been its culture of foraging. Whether it’s gearing up for the return of salmon, spotting bright fiddleheads in the forest underbrush, or coming back from a garden walk with the front of your shirt filled with wild mushrooms, there’s something deeply rewarding about being fed by the nature around you.

In the spirit of sharing nature’s bounty, I’d like to let you in on one of my favorite places for wild berry picking: Rendezvous Peak Trail near Anchorage.

Don’t let its length fool you. Though it clocks in at just over three miles, Rendezvous Peak Trail is not for the faint of heart. The first half of the loop features a steady climb of 1,410 feet — enough to challenge even seasoned hikers. Still, as you gain altitude, you’re rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding landscape, including glimpses of Eagle River and even the distant glimmer of Anchorage.

Ever the foodie, I’ve also found over the years that time — and miles — fly by when my mind is focused on something delicious. And as breathtaking as the vistas may be, the real stars of this trail grow low to the ground, where those in the know can find mossberries, blueberries, and my personal favorite: crowberries.

Now, not everyone is a crowberry convert, and that's okay. Especially eaten fresh, they can pack quite a punch. Bursting with tannins, their flavor is far less sweet than you'd expect from a berry. If you're expecting something mild and approachable like a blueberry, you're bound to be disappointed. But for those willing to keep an open mind, there's a lot to love about the herbal crowberry's complexity. And, if you gather enough of them, I'd argue they make some of the best sauces and jams — perfect for drizzling over sweet and savory dishes alike.

Though you might find some of these delicacies as early as July, August through September is when Rendezvous Peak's slopes are at their most abundant. Carving out an afternoon to harvest them is the perfect way to spend the afternoon — just make sure you come prepared! Besides a sturdy pair of shoes, I always recommend bringing snacks when foraging so your finds make it home and not straight into your mouth. Another necessary item is bug spray. However sweet you find the berries, Alaska's mosquitos will find you equally delicious.

It’s also worth reminding berry-pickers that they’re not the only ones looking forward to this seasonal bounty. From bears to birds, Alaskan wildlife depend on these native fruits to nourish their young and bulk up for winter. In turn, the plants rely on these animals to help spread their seeds. This shared enthusiasm for native berries means foragers should always stay alert. The best way to avoid a dangerous wildlife encounter is to prevent one altogether.

If you’re looking for a new spot to enjoy Alaska’s native berries, I recommend Rendezvous Peak Trail just outside Anchorage. Though the climb to reach them is no small feat, the reward is well worth the effort. And even if you come up empty-handed, you’ll still have epic views to savor.