Idaho is a treasure trove for huckleberry enthusiasts, offering delightful treats unique to the region. From iconic milkshakes to gooey sundaes, each item captures the essence of this beloved berry. Join us as we explore ten must-try huckleberry delights that showcase Idaho’s culinary creativity and love for this local gem.
1. Victor Emporium (Victor) — the iconic huckleberry milkshake
In the small town of Victor, the Victor Emporium is famed for its world-renowned huckleberry milkshake. Imagine sipping on this thick, creamy delight, made with Farr’s ice cream and local berries, while seated at an old-fashioned soda fountain. The shake, a vivid purple hue dotted with real fruit, is a summertime favorite. Lines often stretch out the door, but locals say the wait is worth every minute. Pro tip: visit during off-peak hours to avoid the bustling crowd. The Emporium’s charm and delicious shakes make it a memorable stop for any huckleberry aficionado.
2. Dockside at The Coeur d’Alene Resort (Coeur d’Alene) — gooey sundaes & huckleberry touches
Dockside at The Coeur d’Alene Resort offers breathtaking lake views alongside its towering Gooey sundaes. These extravagant desserts feature seasonal huckleberry sauces, transforming them into a berry lover’s dream. At times, the menu even includes unique huckleberry pancakes and bark, adding a touch of berry magic to breakfast. The combination of stunning scenery and sumptuous treats creates a perfect lakeside dining experience. Whether you’re a guest at the resort or just passing through, Dockside is a must-visit for its creative use of Idaho’s treasured huckleberries.
3. Ice Cream Alley (McCall) — the classic scoop stop
Tucked away in McCall, Ice Cream Alley is a beloved seasonal spot that serves up mountain-sized scoops in a charming setting. The huckleberry flavor, a house favorite, draws in both locals and tourists alike. Operating only from Memorial Day to Labor Day, this cash-only stand becomes a hive of activity in the summer months. As you enjoy your refreshing cone, take in the quaint atmosphere of McCall’s vibrant community. This classic scoop stop is an essential part of Idaho’s huckleberry trail, where sweet nostalgia meets creamy indulgence.
4. Panhandle Cone & Coffee (Sandpoint • CDA • Moscow) — small-batch & often seasonal
Panhandle Cone & Coffee, found in multiple North Idaho locations, is renowned for its innovative small-batch ice cream flavors. Huckleberry, a frequent seasonal star, captures the essence of Idaho’s natural bounty. Their social media feeds keep followers updated on the latest flavors, turning each visit into a new adventure. Whether you’re in Sandpoint, CDA, or Moscow, stopping by for a scoop is a delightful way to experience local flavor. This cozy spot invites you to savor the creativity and care that goes into each batch, with huckleberry often stealing the show.
5. Reed’s Dairy (Idaho Falls & more) — farm-fresh huckleberry ice cream
Reed’s Dairy, with its farm-fresh ethos, offers a delectable huckleberry ice cream that tastes like a scoop of pure Idaho. Known for its house-made creations, this family-run dairy provides a charming pastoral experience. Their products, available in-store and for nationwide shipping, ensure that everyone can enjoy a taste of Idaho’s huckleberry magic. Visiting Reed’s is like stepping back in time, where traditional methods meet modern flavors. Each creamy spoonful of huckleberry ice cream offers a taste of nostalgia interwoven with rich, local ingredients.
6. Paul Bunyan Pak-Out (Coeur d’Alene; also Post Falls/Rathdrum) — old-school huckleberry shake
Paul Bunyan Pak-Out, a classic burger joint, serves up nostalgia with its old-school huckleberry shake. A perfect partner to their famous fries, this shake boasts a rich, fruity flavor. Patrons of all ages relish in the retro atmosphere, where neon signs and checkered floors evoke a sense of Americana. Celebrated by locals as a must-try, the huckleberry shake adds a sweet twist to the traditional burger-and-fries combo. For those seeking a taste of Idaho’s huckleberry tradition, Paul Bunyan Pak-Out delivers both flavor and fun in equal measure.
7. Idaho Candy Company: Huckleberry Gems (Boise & online) — bite-size, packable treats
Idaho Candy Company’s Huckleberry Gems are a delightful treat for those seeking huckleberry flavor on the go. These bite-sized bars, made in Boise, feature creamy marshmallow crème coated in milk chocolate, infused with Northwest huckleberries. Perfectly packable, these gems are a sweet souvenir from Idaho or a delectable gift for friends and family. Available online and in stores, they capture the essence of Idaho’s sweet side. With each bite, Huckleberry Gems offer a delicious combination of flavors that celebrates the region’s beloved berry in a truly unique way.
8. Donnelly Huckleberry Festival (Donnelly, each August) — pies, pancakes & everything purple
Every August, Donnelly bursts into a celebration of all things huckleberry at the Donnelly Huckleberry Festival. This multi-day event is a haven for berry enthusiasts, offering everything from pies to pancakes, all in the vibrant hue of huckleberries. With parades, live music, and an array of vendors, the festival encapsulates the community spirit and love for this native fruit. As you wander through the festivities, the sweet aroma of huckleberry treats fills the air, making it impossible not to indulge. It’s an annual tradition that paints the town purple in the best way.
9. Farr Candy Company (Idaho Falls) — huckleberry cordials & sweets
Farr Candy Company, a storied confectioner with over a century of history, crafts delightful huckleberry cordials that are a testament to Idaho’s sweet legacy. These seasonal treats, with a glossy chocolate shell and rich berry interior, are a beloved indulgence for locals and visitors alike. Known for their innovative sweets, Farr’s creations are available in-store and via inquiries, allowing huckleberry aficionados to savor these delicacies at their leisure. Each cordial represents a bite-sized piece of Idaho’s confectionery tradition, perfect for those seeking a unique and memorable taste.
