Patch Picks: Local Blueberry Farms

Who doesn't love blueberry season? Luckily for those of us in the Pacific Northwest, the region is home to a number of blueberry growers. Here are a few ideas on where to go for your fresh blueberry fix.

• Mountain View Blueberry Farm is just that, a picturesque farm set down in the valley of Snohomish with a view of the Cascades. The farm is located at 7617 E. Lowell-Larimer Road in Snohomish and yields many unique varieties of blueberries, some of which can’t be found anywhere else. Right now there are so many plump berries on the bushes you could pick a bucket full in no time. If you have kids, of course bring them along. Pets are not allowed. The farm only accepts cash and charges $1.80-pound for you-pick berries. If you want to reach Mountain View by phone, call 360-668-3391 for a recorded message

• The Mercer Slough and Larsen Lake blueberry farms in Bellevue are two of the most convenient u-pick options for Eastside residents. Both properties are owned and managed by Bellevue's parks and recreation department. Mercer Slough, located at 2380 Bellevue Way SE, is now open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Larsen Lake, located at 14812 SE Eighth St., is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. Check out this flier for contact information and more details. 

• Henna Blueberry Farm is located at 1800 Fall City Carnation Road SE in Fall City. The farm grows 10 varieties of blueberries; duke, bluecrop, and reka are the dominant varieties. Henna is open every weekend until the blueberries are gone. Make sure you pack a picnic lunch to enjoy all the farm has to offer, including beautiful scenery, ducks and geese. You might even spot a beaver or turtle in the marshlands if you are lucky. Henna's rates are $2.00-pound you-pick or $3.50-pound for pre-picked. More information is available at 425-806-2751 or 206-605-4601.

• Bybee Farms, located at 42930 SE 92nd St. in North Bend, has some of the best blueberries around. The farm has been in the family since 1946 and was originally 80 acres with approximately 42 acres now remaining. Bybee has a wonderful description of all the different types of blueberries available, so make sure you visit their website before you head out the door. Call 425-888-5745 or email sbybee4@comcast.net for more information.

• Remlinger Farms is because it offers a variety of family activities. If you are just into the blueberries, however, the farm's blueberry area is now open every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Make sure to check the farm's website for any change in the blueberry crop that could affect hours. Remlinger Farms is located at 32610 NE 32nd St. in Carnation, Wash. Call 425-333-4135 for more information.