As a late-night snowstorm blows outside the fading ski resort the Mountain View Inn, young Ryan Bramble, whose mother works as a housekeeper at the inn, watches a television show that features car stunts. The show reminds him of his classmate Brad who races motorcycles. Ralph the mouse joins Ryan as he waits for everyone to retire to bed so he can ride his tiny red motorcycle through the hotel. Ralph is an inside mouse, so he hides his motorcycle under the loud grandfather clock during the day. He has many relatives who live outside, and his mother calls them a “rowdy bunch.” Ralph comments on the show’s car stunts and Ryan can understand him. Ralph has the special gift of being able to communicate with children. Matt, the inn’s caretaker, is the only adult who can understand Ralph.

Ryan’s mother, Mrs. Bramble, sends him to bed just as guests arrive at the hotel. Ralph hides under the clock as the guests check in for the night, frustrated that the shabby inn is their only option for lodging. Matt tries to help them with their bags, but they rudely refuse.