Ralph Thayer Memorial Trail

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Unknown

Features Downhill · Hike-a-bike · Technical · Views

There are not many rides like this that give you 18 miles of high alpine, raw, remote, ridge riding with unparalleled views and equally fun and challenging climbs and descents all day long!

Follow Lower Whitefish Road until you reach the junction of the Werner Peak Lookout Road. There are many ways to do this awesome ride. You can do the entire 36 mile loop which is created here, if you're ready for a very full and challenging day. You can also shuttle by driving up to Werner Peak and leaving the other car at the end of the Ralph Thayer Trail (Whitefish Divide Trail #26) on Red Meadow Road or at the bottom of the Werner Peak Lookout Road. Choose based on time and fitness but know that if you do choose to tackle the entire loop, you are in for a very long, hard day.

Once you get to Werner Peak Lookout, it's pretty easy and straightforward as you stay on the Ralph Thayer Memorial Trail (Whitefish Divide Trail #26) all the way to Red Meadow Road. "Easy" and "straightforward" comes with a serious caveat however as many sections of this trail are simply not there any more. It becomes quite an adventure. Look for and follow the cairns and when in doubt, stay high and continue on the top of the ridge. This ride will give you everything you ever wanted in a high alpine adventure.

The views are unmatched as the trail keeps you on top for most of the 16 miles before you make the final descent. There are sections which are clear and appear well used and then sections where the trail disappears and you have to search to find it. Don't worry though. You know you're headed North and there are enough cairns along the way to keep you going. When you get on top of the ridges, if you're ever in doubt, stay high. You'll experience so many fun downhills starting with the start right past Werner Lookout, followed by challenging climbs to take you to the next downhill. The fun simply never ends. Oh and...make sure you have your bear spray. This is Grizzly country!!

After an incredible 2 mile downhill on the North end of the trail to finish, you'll spill out onto Red Meadow Road. Ride this back to Lower Whitefish Road and Werner Peak road...wherever you left your car or shuttle car.