Hats, Buckets, and Blueberries: An Alaska Summer Tradition

Blueberry picking in Alaska is a favorite outdoor adventure for many—and once you’ve done it, you’ll understand why. These tiny antioxidant-packed gems grow all across the state, from taller bushes in the woods to low, sprawling tundra plants. Here in the Interior, we’re lucky to have lowbush tundra blueberries—lush little treasures that require a bit of dedication (and a lot of crouching) to harvest.

These aren’t berries you casually pluck while standing upright. Nope. Lowbush blueberries mean hands-and-knees work, slow wandering, and plenty of pauses to admire the view (and sneak a berry or two). So the big question is: what should you wear for berry picking?

For us, comfort is everything. My go-to outfit starts with a comfy pair of old jeans—emphasis on old. Add a breathable cotton T-shirt and a trusty denim overshirt for those moments when the breeze kicks up or the clouds roll in. Alaska weather likes to keep you guessing.

And then there’s the most important piece of all: the hat. A Tartan Chickadee® bucket hat is my berry-picking MVP. It keeps the sun off your face, helps deter bugs, and stays put while you’re bent low in the tundra. Practical, durable, and stylish enough for those post-picking photos—because yes, berry buckets deserve a photoshoot.

Footwear matters too. Those tiny blueberries grow just as happily in squishy swamps as they do along the roadside, so a solid pair of muck boots is essential. Dry feet make for a much happier picker.

Now let’s talk buckets. Don’t forget a good pail! My personal favorite is a small metal bucket with a swinging handle. It’s sturdy, easy to carry, and charming in that old-fashioned way. After hours of picking, it doubles perfectly as a prop for capturing your berry-haul triumph.

When searching for a good spot, keep an eye on the tundra—and the road. If you see cars pulled over and people squatting low, odds are you’ve found a prime blueberry patch. Don’t be shy. There’s room for everyone, and Alaska’s berry bounty is generous enough to share with both people and wildlife.

A few final tips: bring wet wipes (you’ll want to eat a berry or two, guaranteed), and wear clothes you don’t mind staining. Blueberry juice has a way of leaving its mark. I’ve stood up from the tundra more than once, speckled and spotted like a badge of honor.

Is the adventure worth it? Absolutely. Every year, we count down the days to berry season. There’s something deeply satisfying about wandering the woods, filling a bucket, and connecting with the land in such a simple, timeless way.

So grab your bucket, pull on your boots, don your favorite hat, and head out. Alaska’s wild blueberries are waiting—and they’re always worth the effort.