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Submission
Camp Hale was the center of mountain and winter warfare training developed by the United States Army during World War II. The camp was located here because of the site's natural features and ready access. When the war broke out this valley was served by both a federal highway and the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad. Moreover, the large open valley had adequate room for the camp including more than 1,000 buildings and structures as well as parade grounds, weapons ranges, and other spaces needed by the Army. There is a self-guided tour with 10 stops that take you in a loop around Camp Hale. Each stop has an interpretive sign with history of that area. Their is a larger interpretive site just off Highway 24 marked by stone pillars at the main entrance to Camp Hale about 17 miles south of the intersection of I-70 and Hwy 24.
Off Interstate 70, take Exit 171 for Minturn and Hwy 24. Turn right and continue about 17 miles to Camp Hale, passing through Minturn. Enter Camp Hale on the left at the main entrance marked by stone pillars.
Nothing to see or do! Try to follow the self-guilded drive on the map at the entrance to the campground and hit a dead end, had to turn around, then on a gravel road to the group campground, about half way saw a big sign says "it's not safe to go beyond this sign...". A National Monument?
What a classy monument. This was such a huge part of American History from WW2 and perhaps was the birthplace of USA ski culture. Well done. I hope many people learn more about the 10th Mountain Division and what these heroes accomplished.
Very educational and some structures are still visible. Some gravel roads are not for low clearance sedans or sports cars but suvs should be fine. It was in a beautiful valley with signs describing the camp in the 40s-60s.
Great history of World War 2 and the training of our 10th Mountain soldiers. Also incredible history for our ski industry with so many soldiers returning post war to start US Ski resorts. Vail Mountain being one. The new monument is a great addition and there could even be a future visitor center. The drive alone is worth it.
