🥾 1. Lion Mountain Loop – Whitefish Trail
Just five minutes from downtown, this local favorite offers a 3-mile loop through forested trails with lake views, wildflowers, and picnic spots. It’s a great warm-up for bigger hikes and perfect for families or trail runners.
📍 Trail Info | 🐕 Dog-friendly | 🕒 1–1.5 hrs
⛰️ 2. Danny On Trail – Whitefish Mountain Resort
Starting at the base of the ski hill, this 3.8-mile climb leads you to sweeping views over the Flathead Valley. Take the lift down for a rewarding loop or challenge yourself with the full round trip.
📍 Whitefish Resort Trail Map | 🚠 Optional lift descent | 🕒 2–3 hrs
🌲 3. Columbia Mountain Trail – Columbia Falls
A more rugged local trail that starts with switchbacks and opens up to scenic vistas over the Flathead River Valley. Less trafficked and offers great solitude close to town.
📍 Trail Overview | 🧭 Moderate | 🕒 Half-day
🏔️ 4. Mt. Aeneas – Jewel Basin (Local’s Hidden Gem)
Avoid the Glacier crowds and summit Mt. Aeneas for jaw-dropping views. Choose from a shorter summit trail or a longer loop past Picnic Lakes.
📍 Mt. Aeneas Trail Info | 🧭 Moderate to strenuous | 🕒 3–5 hrs
🏞️ 5. Glacier National Park Highlights
Only ~40 minutes from Whitefish, Glacier offers world-class hiking. Be sure to check current trail status before heading out.
🔹 Grinnell Glacier (Must-do!)
Turquoise lakes, dramatic peaks, and glacier views. Use the boat shuttle to cut a few miles off.
🔹 Highline Trail
Iconic ridgeline views with wildflowers and potential wildlife sightings. Closed occasionally—check alerts.
🔹 Hidden Lake Overlook
Easier option from Logan Pass with alpine meadows and bear spotting. Trail sometimes closed for wildlife.
🔹 Avalanche Lake
A classic, family-friendly Glacier hike with waterfalls and crystal-clear lake views.
🏡 Where to Stay: Steps From the Trail
Stay close to the action with one of our vacation rentals in Whitefish. Whether you're hiking Glacier or heading up the ski hill, you’re never far from home base:
✨ Browse curated homes at OutsideMetro.com
🛏️ Downtown condos | 🛁 Hot tubs | 🔥 Fire pits
Book your stay, pack your boots, and hike your heart out.
💻 Reserve Now or contact us for help planning your mountain escape.
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