Best Flathead Valley Hikes Outside Glacier National Park
- Meghan McCranie
- 33 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Most visitors come to Northwest Montana with one goal in mind: exploring the trails of Glacier National Park. And honestly? Fair. Glacier didn't earn the nickname "Crown of the Continent" by being mediocre. It's jaw-droppingly beautiful, wildly dramatic, and one of those places that somehow exceeds even the most unrealistic expectations.
That said, once you've checked Glacier off your hiking bucket list (or discovered that finding a parking spot there in July triggers your road rage), there are plenty of incredible trails throughout the Flathead Valley that deserve a spot on your adventure list.
Located just outside Whitefish, Lion Mountain is a beginner-friendly trail that's perfect for a quick hike, trail run, or an excuse to get outside when you've spent too much time staring at a screen. The main loop is approximately 2.5 miles, but adventurous hikers can add mileage by branching off toward Skyles Lake or Beaver Lake.
One of my favorite things about Lion Mountain is its year-round accessibility. Even in winter, it's often manageable for those willing to trade warm toes for fresh mountain air. During summer and fall, this is one of my go-to trails, and it's not uncommon for me to visit several times a week. It's close, convenient, and consistently rewarding.
Located above Jewel Basin near Bigfork, Mt. Aeneas offers stunning alpine views, mountain lakes, and enough scenery to make you forget you're breathing a little harder than usual. I'd
recommend tackling this trail between mid-July and September when the snow has mostly retreated from the summit.
Like many trails in Jewel Basin, Mt. Aeneas comes with a network of connecting routes, allowing you to customize the hike to match your energy level, available snacks, and tolerance for uphill climbs. It's one of those places where every turn seems to reveal another postcard-worthy view.
Danny On is a local classic that climbs all the way to the summit of Big Mountain in Whitefish. The trail delivers incredible views overlooking Whitefish Lake, the town below, and the surrounding mountains that somehow look different every time you visit.
If you're hiking in August, bring a container for huckleberries. And by container, I mean a large Ziplock bag, an empty gallon jug, or whatever vessel you're comfortable carrying. My favorite way to enjoy Danny On is to hike up and take the ski lift down after rewarding myself with lunch and a celebratory beverage at Summit House.
Whether you're looking to avoid Glacier's busiest crowds or simply explore more of what the Flathead Valley has to offer, these trails prove that world-class adventures exist well beyond the park boundaries. Just don't blame me if your "quick hike" turns into an all-day adventure. Just don't forget- HYDRATE, be bear aware, always pack snacks, and check the weather before you go. Weather can change quickly so you want to be sure you're prepared with the right gear. A local saying I've embraced is that "there is no bad weather, only bad gear."
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