Summit Trail and Danny On Trail Loop

This challenging loop typically takes around 5 hours and 50 minutes to complete. However, your actual time may vary depending on your fitness level, pace, and how long you spend enjoying the scenic viewpoints.

The Summit Trail and Danny On Trail Loop is considered a difficult hike. It involves a significant elevation gain of over 680 meters (2,200 feet) and covers a distance of nearly 19 kilometers (11.7 miles). While numerous switchbacks help moderate the grade, a very good fitness level is recommended for the full loop.

The trail offers diverse terrain, alternating between dense evergreen forests of Douglas fir, western larch, spruce, and fir, and open grassy ski trails. You'll encounter numerous switchbacks, rocky sections, and lush vegetation. The path is generally well-marked, making navigation straightforward.

As you ascend, you'll be treated to increasingly impressive views of the verdant Flathead Valley. From the Big Mountain Summit, you'll get 360-degree alpine vistas, including the Whitefish Range, Glacier National Park, the Canadian Rockies, and several wilderness areas. The Summit House also offers panoramic views.

The best time to hike this trail is typically from late spring through early fall. In late summer, huckleberry bushes are plentiful, offering a chance to snack on berries. In the fall, the deciduous shrubs along the trail display stunning technicolor foliage, making for a beautiful experience.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Danny On Trail or Summit Trail within Whitefish Mountain Resort. However, if you choose to use the scenic chairlift, there will be a fee for that service.

Parking is available at the base of Whitefish Mountain Resort, where the trailhead for the Danny On Trail is located. The resort offers ample parking facilities for visitors.

While the trail is popular, specific regulations regarding dogs can vary. It's always best to check the current rules with Whitefish Mountain Resort directly, but generally, dogs are allowed on leash. Please ensure you pack out all waste.

Yes, a unique feature of this trail is the option to use the scenic chairlift at Whitefish Mountain Resort. You can choose to ride the lift up and hike down, hike up and ride down, or hike both ways, offering flexibility for different fitness levels and preferences.

Amenities are available at both the base village and the summit. At the base, you'll find parking, restrooms, shops, and restaurants. At the summit, the Summit House offers food and facilities, and also hosts the Forest Service's Environmental Education Center.

Along the trail, you might spot various birds, deer, and woodpeckers. The forests are home to Douglas fir, western larch, spruce, and fir. In late summer, huckleberry bushes are abundant, and in fall, deciduous shrubs provide vibrant colors.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Summit Trail, Kashmir, 9790, Freebird, Out Post Avenue, Flower Point Trail, Classic Rock, Cappello's Cornice, GNR, and East Rim Loop.