Ralph L. Thayer Memorial

If you and your pup detest the heat of summer and just long for a vigorous hike in some chilly weather, the Ralph L Thayer Memorial Trail is the one for you. This multi-use, 27 mile long trail runs over Werner Peak in Montana, and can still have a covering of snow as late as July. There are two trailheads to access this trail, one on Werner Peak and the other in Red Meadow Pass. There'll be some rough terrain for you and your pup to negotiate as you hike across the ridges of the Whitefish mountain range.

You and your fur buddy will need to be fit to tackle the Ralph L Thayer Trail. It's a narrow rocky path with sheer drops either side in places. There are some very steep inclines too which will really stretch those tendons and calf muscles. You'll be rewarded with lots of awe-inspiring views of pine forested mountainsides and green valleys which reach as far as the Glacier National Park. Be prepared though as the clouds can drop down low and surround you and pup in thick mist.

This is a fur-ific hike, so you'll need to pack your backpack with enough provisions for you and your fur buddy. They, and you, will work up a healthy appetite exercising in all that mountain air. Pack some poop bags too and your pup's leash. This area is real backcountry, and your fur baby is safer on their leash than off. Mountain bikers enjoy testing their riding skills on this trail, so watch out for speeding cyclists and keep your fur buddy close as they pass.

Want to stay on the mountainside for longer than a day hike? If you join the trail at Red Meadow Pass and head for Werner Peak, with a bit of forward planning, you can rent the Werner Peak Lookout for the night. It costs around $50 and is dog-friendly. The lookout sits seven thousand feet up the mountain and is large enough to accommodate four people plus their pets. Have a pawsome hike!