On February 18th, 12 Mad River Mountain Patrollers and Guests took part in the Rucksack Challenge to honor the 80th Anniversary of the assault of Riva Ridge in Italy by the 10th Mountain Division Soldiers during World War II.
This event was a national event supported by the National Ski Patrol and executed by 15 ski hills around the United States. Each participant traveled uphill either by hiking in ski or snowboard boots or skinning 285 Vertical feet and then skieing back to the start, completing 1 lap. Participants completed from 1-10 laps during the 90 minute event and carried up to 60lbs of gear with them.
While the event was exhausting and fun, it built camaraderie and esprit de corp amongst those that participated.
It does not go without saying that members of the National Ski Patrol were instrumental in helping to form and train the 10th Mountain Division in the 1940’s and that many 10th Mountain Veterans helped to form many ski hills in America after returning from the battlefields of Europe.
Thanks to the administration of Mad River and Vail as well as the patrol leadership for allowing us to put on this great event.
Next years event will be Feb 18th, 2026! Start training now!