The Ninety-Pound Rucksack Challenge returns on February 18, 2025, inviting participants nationwide to commemorate the legacy of the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division.
Hosted in partnership with the National Ski Patrol, 10th Mountain Division Foundation, 10th Mountain Alpine Club, 10th Mountain Division Descendants, and Uphill Athlete, this annual ski mountaineering event celebrates the historic World War II ascent of Italy’s Riva Ridge and the post-war contributions of the 10th Mountain Division to American skiing.
On the evening of February 18 at 7 p.m. local time, participants will ascend ski slopes or backcountry routes, mirroring the 10th Mountain Division soldiers’ nighttime climb up Riva Ridge in 1945. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the ascent that cracked the Gothic Line, hastened the end of World War II, and solidified the Division’s legacy.
Growing Nationwide Participation
The 2025 Ninety-Pound Rucksack Challenge will be held at iconic locations across the county, including:
- Whiteface Mountain, NY – Early training ground for the 10th Mountain Division.
- Ski Cooper, CO – The Division’s primary training area.
- Mt. Glory, Jackson Hole, WY – Teton locals honor the motto “Climb to Glory.”
- White Pass, WA – A new addition for Pacific Northwest skiers.
- A-Basin, CO – Highlighting Colorado’s ski legacy.
- Snow Ridge, NY – Honoring New York’s alpine history.
A Challenge for Everyone
Whether at a participating ski area or a personal route, participants can design their own experience. Routes typically feature 1,500–2,500 feet of vertical gain, and individuals may carry their usual gear, a percentage of their body weight, or climb without additional weight.
How to Participate:
- Find Your Route:
- Join at a listed ski area or choose a safe, suitable route.
- Backcountry participants should assess conditions and check local avalanche forecasts.
- Register:
- Visit participating ski area registration links or join the event on Strava.
- Train for Success:
- Uphill Athlete offers free Hut-to-Hut and Haute Route training plans to the first 50 participants who join the National Ski Patrol’s Strava Club and the Ninety-Pound Rucksack Challenge Strava Event.
- Choose Your Pack Weight:
- Carry what feels right—emulate the GIs of 1945 with up to 30% of your body weight, or simply climb to honor their legacy.
Why Host or Participate?
Hosting the Ninety-Pound Rucksack Challenge offers ski areas a unique opportunity to unite their community around American ski history. With an Organizer Toolkit, promotional materials, and safety guidelines provided, hosting is straightforward and impactful.
For individuals, the Challenge is a chance to honor history, push personal boundaries, and connect with a nationwide community inspired by the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division.
The History Behind the Challenge
On February 18, 1945, 1,000 10th Mountain Division soldiers ascended Italy’s Riva Ridge at night, scaling 1,500–2,500 feet of vertical terrain to surprise German forces. Their successful climb broke the Gothic Line, a fortified barrier, paving the way for Allied victory in Italy.
After the war, 10th Mountain Division veterans revolutionized the American ski industry, founding resorts like Aspen, Vail, and A-Basin and instilling a lasting passion for outdoor adventure.
Celebrate the 10th’s Legacy
Join us on February 18, 2025, for this nationwide tribute to the courage, ingenuity, and perseverance of the 10th Mountain Division. Unite your community, honor history, and help preserve the legacy of the soldiers who forever changed the landscape of American skiing.
For more information, visit here or contact Christian Beckwith at cb [AT] christianbeckwith.com