The Legacy of the 10th Mountain Division

The 10th Mountain Division holds a unique and honored place in both military and ski history. Formed during World War II as a specialized U.S. Army unit trained for alpine combat, the 10th Mountain Division drew from a pool of expert skiers, mountaineers and outdoorsmen from across the country. Many recruits had deep roots in the mountains of New England and brought their passion for skiing to military service.

Created in 1943, the 10th Mountain Division trained at high elevations in the Colorado Rockies under intense winter conditions. Their expertise was critical to Allied success in the Italian campaign, particularly during the offensive in the Apennine Mountains in early 1945. The Division endured fierce battles and earned a reputation for bravery, perseverance and tactical innovation in mountainous terrain.

When the war ended, many members of the 10th Mountain Division returned to civilian life with a renewed passion for the outdoors and skiing. A significant number of these veterans helped launch or expand ski areas throughout the United States, including New England. Their influence can be seen in the founding and professionalization of major ski resorts in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine. These veterans played a pivotal role in transforming skiing from a niche winter activity into a thriving recreational industry.

In recognition of their contribution, the New England Ski Museum features permanent exhibits dedicated to the 10th Mountain Division at both its Franconia and North Conway locations. This exhibit explores the formation of the Division, their military service in World War II and the legacy they carried into the post-war ski industry. Artifacts include wartime equipment, original photographs and personal stories that illustrate the deep connection between military history and ski culture in New England.

Visitors to the Museum will gain a deeper understanding of how these soldier-skiers shaped the development of ski areas across the region. Their legacy lives on not only in the mountains where they served but also in the ski towns and resorts they helped build.

Plan your visit to the New England Ski Museum in Franconia Notch to explore the 10th Mountain Division exhibit and discover the enduring bond between American skiing and military service.

To read more about the 10th Mountain Division, you can read these previous articles from our Member Journal below: