To love Montana is to love the great outdoors. The Treasure State is so full of natural beauty, you’ll find stunning views hiding around practically any corner. And if you’ve ever hiked the Danny On National Recreation Trail near Whitefish, you’ve seen as many as six of Montana’s finest natural wonders at once.
The Danny On National Recreation Trail is a challenging 7.2-mile hike on the Tally Lake Ranger District of the Flathead National Forest, just outside of the city of Whitefish.
Bernard Schultz / alltrails.com While it is known for being the most popular trail in the area, it’s also one of the most exhausting, so you might not have any trouble finding a little solitude when you go.
The trail takes hikers from the base area of Whitefish Mountain Resort to its summit.
Kevin Lassie / alltrails.com The steep elevation gains and switchbacks are the reason the trail is considered difficult.
Still, if you’ve attempted this hike yourself, you know it’s well worth the efforts. On a clear day, you can see six of Montana’s finest natural wonders throughout the 7.2-mile hike.
MC Crocker / alltrails.com Depending on which part of the path you’re on and where you look, you could spot parts of Glacier National Park, The Bob Marshall Wilderness Area, the Flathead Valley, and three different mountain ranges.
This trail may be exhilarating, but it’s also well-marked and well-maintained.
Matthew DeBaene / alltrails.com As long as you stick to the path, you won’t lose your way.
Does this all seem a bit daunting? Here’s some good news: The Danny On Trail is one of the few trails in the country that can be accessed by chairlift.
Ben K / alltrails.com Many choose to take the gondola up and hike their way downhill, while others hike their way up and relax in the chairlift on the way down.
Of course, hiking both up and down is not only fantastic exercise, but it’s also free.
Alejandro Rueda Loaiza / alltrails.com If you’re up for it, challenge yourself to walk the whole way.
Ready to take a hike? The trailhead is located at the base of Whitefish Mountain Resort.
Byron Ruff / alltrails.com From downtown Whitefish, take Wisconsin Ave to East Lakeshore Drive and turn onto the Big Mountain Road at the ski area sign. You’ll see signs for parking and for the trail.
Address: 1015 Glades Drive, Whitefish, MT 59937
Bernard Schultz / alltrails.com
While it is known for being the most popular trail in the area, it’s also one of the most exhausting, so you might not have any trouble finding a little solitude when you go.
Kevin Lassie / alltrails.com
The steep elevation gains and switchbacks are the reason the trail is considered difficult.
MC Crocker / alltrails.com
Depending on which part of the path you’re on and where you look, you could spot parts of Glacier National Park, The Bob Marshall Wilderness Area, the Flathead Valley, and three different mountain ranges.
Matthew DeBaene / alltrails.com
As long as you stick to the path, you won’t lose your way.
Ben K / alltrails.com
Many choose to take the gondola up and hike their way downhill, while others hike their way up and relax in the chairlift on the way down.
Alejandro Rueda Loaiza / alltrails.com
If you’re up for it, challenge yourself to walk the whole way.
Byron Ruff / alltrails.com
From downtown Whitefish, take Wisconsin Ave to East Lakeshore Drive and turn onto the Big Mountain Road at the ski area sign. You’ll see signs for parking and for the trail.
This hike is gorgeous, but if you don’t grab a ride on the gondola, it’s pretty daunting. If you’re new to hiking, start with one of these trails under three miles long.
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