National Ski Patrol x 10th Mountain Division Events
National Ski Patrol shares a deep and historic connection with the 10th Mountain Division - one rooted in service, mountain expertise, and a defining moment in World War II.
NSP was originally organized by Charles Minot “Minnie” Dole, who later advocated for and helped establish the 10th Mountain Division. During World War II, National Ski Patrol played a critical role in recruiting and screening soldiers for this elite unit, identifying skiers, mountaineers, and outdoor leaders capable of operating in extreme alpine conditions.
That connection was cemented in February 1945 during the Battle of Riva Ridge in Italy. In a daring nighttime assault, soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division scaled steep, icy cliffs under cover of darkness to surprise enemy forces positioned along the Gothic Line. Their success helped break through German defenses and marked a turning point in the Italian campaign—demonstrating the effectiveness of highly trained mountain troops.
Camp Hale is central to that story. Established in 1942, Camp Hale trained approximately 14,000 soldiers in mountain and winter warfare. Its rugged terrain, high altitude, and heavy snowfall shaped the endurance, resilience, and technical skill that defined the Division’s success. In 2022, Camp Hale was designated a National Monument, preserving its significance in both military and ski history.
After the war, many veterans of the 10th Mountain Division returned home and became pioneers of the American ski industry - founding resorts, advancing avalanche safety, and helping build the culture of skiing in the United States. This shared legacy continues to unite the military and mountain communities today.
10th Mountain Division Legacy Events
Today, that legacy lives on through annual events held in mountain communities across the country. These gatherings bring together veterans, descendants, active-duty military, patrollers, and supporters to honor the service and sacrifice of the 10th Mountain Division while celebrating its lasting impact on skiing and mountain safety.
National Ski Patrol is proud to support and participate in these events, which ensure that the history, spirit, and lessons of the 10th Mountain Division continue to inspire future generations.
Ninety-Pound Rucksack Challenge
The Ninety-Pound Rucksack Challenge is an annual ski mountaineering event honoring the 10th Mountain Division’s nighttime assault on Riva Ridge. The challenge reflects the physical endurance and determination required of the soldiers and continues to inspire today’s mountain community.
Hale to Vail Traverse (By Invitation Only)
The Hale to Vail Traverse is a modern tribute to Camp Hale’s legacy and NSP’s deep-rooted connection to the 10th Mountain Division. This experience brings together active-duty military, veterans, and patrollers in a shared journey that reflects endurance, teamwork, and mountain leadership. This is an initiative led by National Ski Patrol.
Ski-In Daze & Vail Legacy Weekend
Held annually at Ski Cooper and in the Camp Hale/Pando Valley area, Ski-In Daze is a cherished gathering organized by the 10th Mountain Descendants. The event includes traditions such as the Veterans Honor Serpentine Ski Parade and a memorial ceremony at the 10th Mountain Division monument.
Vail Legacy Weekend
Vail Legacy Weekend is an annual celebration honoring the history and enduring influence of the 10th Mountain Division. Programming varies year to year but has included community gatherings, parades, commemorative tributes, and on-mountain experiences that bring history to life.
Commemorating Historic Milestones
In addition to these annual events, certain years include special milestone commemorations tied to key moments in 10th Mountain Division history.
In 2025, the community commemorated the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Riva Ridge, honoring the Division’s pivotal role in World War II. NSP was proud to stand alongside partners, veterans, descendants, and supporters in recognizing this important moment and the extraordinary legacy of the 10th Mountain Division.
Related News:
~ CBS Colorado: 50+ commemorate Colorado unit's critical WWII mission with nighttime trek
~ DVIDS: Legacy in Motion: 10th Mountain Division Soldiers Descend Vail Mountain
~ US Army: 10th Mountain Division (LI) honors its historic climb to glory
~ Vail Daily: Celebrate the legacy of Vail with the 10th Mountain Division
2025 Related articles and links:
~ VAIL DAILY: Hale to Vail Celebrates 10th Mountain Division's World War II Feats 80 Years Ago
~ DVIDS: National Ski Patrol Representatives Support 10th Mountain Division Soldiers During D-Series
~ HISTORY COLORADO: Military Mountaineers - The 10th Mountain Division's Legendary Breakthrough in the Italian Apennines
~ FREESKIER: The Historic and Continued Bond Between National Ski Patrol and The 10th Mountain Division