Camp Hale

Camp Hale was a U.S. Army training facility located in the Eagle River Valley of central Colorado, between the towns of Red Cliff and Leadville. Established in 1942, it served primarily as a training ground for the 10th Mountain Division during World War II. The camp's high-altitude (approximately 9,200 feet) and harsh winter conditions provided a challenging environment to prepare soldiers for mountain and winter warfare.

The 10th Mountain Division was specifically formed to fight in mountainous terrain, and Camp Hale offered ideal conditions for developing skills in skiing, rock climbing, cold-weather survival, and other specialized combat tactics. Soldiers trained with skis, snowshoes, and pack animals, learning to navigate difficult terrain while carrying heavy equipment. The rigorous training regimen at Camp Hale forged highly skilled and resilient soldiers.

Following World War II, Camp Hale was used for various purposes, including as a training site for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) during the Cold War. It was reportedly used to train Tibetan guerrillas for operations against Chinese forces in Tibet.

The camp was eventually decommissioned and abandoned, and much of the infrastructure deteriorated over time. In 2022, Camp Hale was designated as part of the "Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument," protecting the area's historical significance and natural resources. Today, the area serves as a reminder of the crucial role the 10th Mountain Division played in World War II and the challenging training they underwent at Camp Hale. It is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including hiking, skiing, and exploring the remnants of the former military base.