Ninety-Pound Rucksack Challenge

A group of skiers and rescue team members poses together at night on snowy terrain.

Three skiers pose together at night on snow, illuminated by headlamps.

Skiers with headlamps gather on snow-covered Pico Peak at night.

The Ninety-Pound Rucksack Challenge is an annual ski mountaineering event that honors the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division, their historic World War ll ascent of Riva Ridge, and their post-war contributions to American skiing. The event entails assenting a ski slope or backcountry route on February 18th at 7:00 p.m. local time - the anniversary of the Riva Ridge ascent.

Participants across the country recreate the 10th's legendary climb by ascending 1,500 to 2,500 feet and skiing back down. Participants can carry their regular kit, a percentage of their body weight, or no weight at all. This event is a chance to celebrate history, community, and the spirit of adventure embodied by the 10th.

The Challenge is brought to you by the producers of the Ninety-Pound Rucksack podcast, which recounts the Division's origin story and its impact on outdoor recreation in America.

Registration

Signing up for this event is free! Stay tuned for a link to register.

Questions? We’ve got answers.

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Pico Fitness Center is open year-round. Pico Mountain Ski Resort operates only during the winter season, is closed Tuesday & Wednesdays except for peak period dates.

Season passes are available for purchase online at picomountain.com/seasonpass. Last day save on the price is September 24, 2026, and the K.A. All Seasons Pass will no longer be available for purchase after that date.

Free parking is available at the Pico Mountain Base Lodge. 9 stations of paid solar-powered EV charging is available at the base area.

Dogs are welcome in outdoor areas and on select pet-friendly trails during the non-ski season. Service animals are welcome year-round. Please review our Pet Policy for full details. Please note that animals are not permitted on chairlifts at any time.