Danny On Trail

No, mountain biking is explicitly prohibited on the Danny On Trail. This trail is designated for hiking only. Whitefish Mountain Resort does offer an extensive bike park with over 20 miles of lift-accessed and cross-country mountain biking trails for various skill levels, but the Danny On Trail itself is not open to bikes.

The Danny On Trail starts from the village base area of Whitefish Mountain Resort. You can find parking available at the base. From there, you have a few options: hike up and down, ride the scenic chairlift up and hike down, or hike up and ride the chairlift down for free.

The Danny On Trail is considered a challenging hike. It's 3.8 miles one way from the village to the summit of Big Mountain, involving a significant elevation gain or descent of over 2,000 vertical feet.

As you hike, you'll pass through beautiful evergreen woods, subalpine fir forests, and open grassy ski meadows. In the summer, these meadows are vibrant with wildflowers and huckleberries. The trail offers spectacular vistas of the Flathead Valley, with distant views of Glacier National Park, the Canadian Rockies, and various wilderness areas. The summit provides a full 360-degree panorama.

Summer is an excellent time to hike the Danny On Trail, especially when the ski meadows are full of wildflowers and huckleberries. The scenic chairlift typically operates during the summer months, offering flexible access options.

Rules regarding dogs on trails at Whitefish Mountain Resort can vary. It's always best to check the current pet policy directly with Whitefish Mountain Resort before your visit to ensure compliance.

The Danny On Trail itself does not typically require a specific hiking permit or entrance fee. However, if you choose to use the scenic chairlift for part of your journey, there will be a fee for the ride up. Riding the lift down after hiking up is often free.

At the base area, you'll find parking, restrooms, shopping, and restaurants. At the summit, the Summit House offers similar amenities, including restrooms and dining options, and also hosts the Forest Service's award-winning Environmental Education Center.

Yes, near the summit, the Danny On Trail connects to other trails. You can access the shorter East Rim loop or the longer Flower Point Trail from here, allowing for extended hiking options.

Beyond the stunning views, you'll find the Chairlift in Flathead National Forest, which offers a unique way to access the trail. The summit provides a spectacular View of Lewis Range and a 360-degree panorama. The trail is also a memorial to Danny On, a notable conservationist and photographer.

Given its challenging nature with significant elevation gain, the full 3.8-mile hike up the Danny On Trail might be strenuous for younger children or those not accustomed to long, uphill climbs. However, families can enjoy parts of the trail by riding the chairlift up and hiking down, or simply exploring the summit area.