While it’s been a couple of hot weeks in the “Crown of the Continent” region, the team at Castle Mountain Resort has remained hard at work pulling together all of the details for southwestern Alberta’s coolest summer festival; the 22nd iteration of Castle Mountain Resort’s Huckleberry Festival! This year, the festival takes place from August 25 – 27.
Over the years Huckleberry Festival has seen many changes, with this year being no exception. Perhaps the biggest change for this year’s festival is that it will encompass the entire weekend, with events starting on Friday evening running through to the afternoon on Sunday.
The Huckleberry Chairlift will operate on both Saturday and Sunday for those looking for a lift to prime berry picking areas or those just looking to enjoy a relaxing summer chairlift ride. The running of the chairlift both days will also be helpful to hikers looking for quick access to mid-mountain and alpine hiking trails. This past June, Castle Mountain Resort and the Castle Mountain Community Association signed and marked a number of hiking trails at the resort which have been popular with locals for years; welcome news for those not so familiar with the area.
Live music is teed up all weekend long, in the base area and at the T-Bar Pub & Grub. Performances by Elk, Run & Riot, Tin & The Toad, and The Tumbleweeds are expected and can be enjoyed completely free of charge. Other free events include face painting and a bouncy Castle for kids, a vendor marketplace featuring local businesses and artisans, and a beer tasting on Friday evening (must be legal drinking age). A guided hike is also scheduled to take place on Sunday morning.
Also new this year is the Huckleberry all-access pass, for those looking to take in all the aspects of Huckleberry Festival, at our best value. Priced at $69 / adults (13+) and $49 / children (6-12), the pass doesn’t simply act as a take-home souvenir but provides a guest with unlimited scenic lift rides and a weekend of scrumptious meals. Available online, in-advance only (check back soon!) as a stand-alone product or as a package with on-mountain accommodation at the Castle Mountain Lodge and Hostel. Single meal and single lift ride tickets will be available on-site during the event.
For a full schedule of events, click here!!
Are huckleberries still in season to pick at this time? And will we be directed to areas where there are patches? First timers here. Thanks.
Hi Janet,
Thanks for your note! Huckleberries are generally ripe in mid to late August, coinciding perfectly with Huckleberry Festival 2017. The word on the street this year is that the berry crop is coming into its own, but that they’re still a bit small (likely thirsty from the lack of rain). When you arrive at the resort you’ll want to pick up one of our Huckleberry maps. Here, you’ll be able to see where the prime berry picking areas are and all you’ll need to do is keep a sharp eye out because there will be lots!
Can I buy already picked huckleberries at or near the event?
Hi Connie,
Not that we’re aware of! This event is all about getting out there and picking them yourself!
All the best,
Cole
I was wondering about accommodations before getting a couple of all access passes. We are hoping to tent or stay in our trailer if possible. Thanks
Hi Jessy,
You can definitely camp at Castle Mountain Resort, over Huckleberry Fest weekend, with powered / non-powered sites available. It’s a $25 nightly charge for a site w/ power or $15 / night for un-serviced parking. Either way you’ll enjoy access to our wash-house facilities with washrooms and showers available.
All the best,
Cole
Hi, are there powered sites in the trees available for fri, sat next weekend? We stayed in one on the south side of parking lot last year that fit our fifth wheel. And if there is, can I please book one . Thank you. Sheri David.
Hi Dan,
For campsite availability you’ll want to contact our Guest Services team at 888-SKI-TONS or 403-627-5101. They will be able to help you out with respect to camping availability.
All the best,
Cole Fawcett
Sales & Marketing Manager