Take a Hike to Colorado’s 10th Mountain Division Huts
Colorado’s 10th Mountain Division Huts are a system of 30 backcountry structures throughout the Rocky Mountains. Many of these buildings were developed during World War II for troops training at nearby Camp Hale, but others were built later on, in honor of fallen soldiers and other notable people. The name "10th Mountain" honors the soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division of the U.S. Army.
When the war ended, these dwellings became hiking destinations and were also used by the Forest Service as shelter. Nowadays, the huts can be booked through a lottery system, and are a popular place for skiers to rest after a day on the slopes.
The structures range in difficulty to get to. Some are very close in proximity to the trailhead or right off of the highway, while others are in remote, backcountry locations.
The huts closest to the Front Range and Denver are Janet's, Francie's, Eiseman Hut, 10th Mountain Division Hut, Uncle Buds, and the Sangree Froelicher.
There are seven additional Colorado huts that are independently owned and operated by two small local nonprofits. The Alfred Braun Hut System and the Friends Hut are located in the Elk Mountains between Aspen and Crested Butte.