Photo: Nǫdlàa/gots’ǫkà (cloudberry) found between Yellowknife and Behchokǫ̀ July 2024, Christine Dunbar.

Photo: Nǫdlàa/gots’ǫkà (cloudberry) found between Yellowknife and Behchokǫ̀ July 2024, Christine Dunbar.

Seasonal Spotlight: Berry Season in Wek'èezhìı

Berry picking is a chance to spend time on the land, connect with family, and enjoy one of nature's sweet treats.

Across the Northwest Territories, many berry species have traditionally been used as food, medicine, and natural dyes. From cloudberries and rosehips to squash berries and juniper berries, these plants continue to be an important part of life on the land.

Whether you're filling a bucket or simply enjoying time outdoors, berry season is a wonderful reminder of the many gifts the land provides. Happy picking! 

 

Planning a berry-picking trip? Check out the Southern Northwest Territories Berry Harvesting Calendar, which highlights when common berry species are typically ready to harvest. The calendar reflects Traditional Knowledge from the Tłı̨chǫ Region, South Slave Region, and the North Slave Métis Alliance.

 

Additional Berry Resources:

Northern Berry Harvesting Calendar 

Guide to the Berries of the Northwest Territories

Indigenous Knowledge of Berries in the Northwest Territories – Final Report, 2025.