At 89 and just months away from his birthday in November, Jim Bell takes his age in stride.

The Kalispell resident will take many strides hiking up the Danny On trail today during the 23rd annual Climb Big Mountain fundraiser.

The 3.8-mile hike, with an elevation gain of more than 2,300 feet to the summit, will benefit Flathead Industries, a local nonprofit that provides work and living opportunities for people with disabilities.

Bell will hike with longtime friend and hiking buddy Gene Thomas, 76, of Kalispell. The two have been hiking together for more than 25 years.

“He was a person that could always see something in nature I couldn’t always see,” Thomas said.

Bell and Thomas will hike with a larger group of family and friends representing E. Thomas Electric in Kalispell for the Climb Big Mountain event. They plan to arrive at about 7:30 a.m. to beat the heat.

“It’s a big affair,” Bell said.

Bell estimates that he has participated in Climb Big Mountain for seven years. Between work as a certified public accountant and spending time at home with his wife, this will be his first hike in about a year.

“It’s great to be able to do it. I have many friends that aren’t able. It keeps your blood moving,” Bell said.

The Whitefish native said he didn’t pick up hiking as a regular hobby until he moved back to Montana in the 1960s after working in Wyoming for several years.

The longest hike Bell accomplished was a multi-day excursion during the 1990s through the Bob Marshall Wilderness with about nine people, including Thomas. They hiked from Benchmark to Holland Lake.

“You see beautiful country out there,” Bell said.

Thomas said Bell is notable not just for his hiking but also singing along the trail.

“He has a wonderful voice,” Thomas said.

Bell was modest about his singing.

“I’ll sing a tune if the mood strikes,” Bell said.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or by email at [email protected].