Big Mountain Fuels Reduction Project

Throughout summer 2026, Whitefish Mountain Resort and the U.S. Forest Service are undertaking a fuels reduction project across more than 200 acres of Big Mountain terrain. Occurring in phases, this work involves felling trees and clearing vegetation to reduce wildfire risk and protect resort infrastructure.

Work involving heavy machinery will take place in the orange-shaded areas on the map. This will impact hiking and mountain biking trails at various times throughout the season. For your safety, please heed all signage and follow this page to learn about current trail closures and reroutes.

SEPT. 8 UPDATE:

Crews continue working throughout the Chair 2 zone and the area remains closed to all foot traffic.

Hikers: The Danny On Memorial Trail detour is expected to remain in place for the rest of the summer. Hazards and obstructions remain on the lower third of the original trail.

Starting from the lift plaza near the bottom of Chair 1, please follow signs and ropes that will guide you onto the alternate route, which includes a dirt road above Russ's Street. The detour connects to the original trail below the bottom of Chair 5.

Additionally, the Toni Matt/Benny Up ski run is open and hikers may take this direct route to the summit.

Mountain bikers: Freebird and Skynyrd remain closed due to logging. All other bike trails are open daily. Chair 1 is open daily. Chair 2 is closed for the season. Chair 10 is open Saturdays and Sundays only.