A Historical Memoir of the Snowbird and Alta Ski Patrols: A Century of Service and Camaraderie

Nestled amidst the towering peaks of Utah's Wasatch Mountains, the legendary ski resorts of Snowbird and Alta have long been renowned for their exceptional terrain, abundant snowfall, and vibrant ski culture. However, behind the scenes of these world-renowned destinations, there exists a dedicated group of individuals who have played an indispensable role in ensuring the safety and well-being of skiers and snowboarders for over a century: the Snowbird and Alta Ski Patrols.

This article presents a comprehensive historical account of these esteemed organizations, tracing their humble beginnings to their present-day status as pillars of the mountain safety community. Through archival research, interviews with patrol veterans, and a deep dive into the annals of the ski industry, we uncover the remarkable stories of the individuals who have shaped these patrols and the countless lives they have touched over the decades.

Avalanche Busters: A Historical Memoir of the Snowbird and Alta Ski Patrols

by Wayne Stewart

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4864 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	411 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Early Years: A Call to Serve

The origins of the Snowbird and Alta Ski Patrols can be traced back to the early days of skiing in the Wasatch Mountains. In the 1920s and 1930s, as skiing gained popularity, the need for organized mountain safety services became increasingly apparent. Recognizing this need, a group of dedicated skiers in Alta and Snowbird stepped forward to answer the call.

In 1935, the Alta Ski Patrol was officially formed under the leadership of Alf Engen, a Norwegian ski jumper who had immigrated to the United States in 1929. Engen, who would later become known as the "Father of American Skiing," instilled in his patrol a deep commitment to safety and camaraderie.

Meanwhile, in Snowbird, a group of skiers led by Ted Johnson, a local rancher and ski enthusiast, established the Snowbird Ski Patrol in 1942. Like the Alta patrollers, the Snowbird team was driven by a desire to protect their fellow skiers and ensure the safe operation of the growing resort.

World War II and the Ski Patrol

The outbreak of World War II had a profound impact on the ski patrols of Alta and Snowbird. Many patrollers were called to serve in the armed forces, leaving the remaining members severely understaffed. Despite the challenges, the patrols continued to operate, providing essential mountain safety services to the local community and the thousands of troops who trained in the Wasatch Mountains.

In 1943, the Alta Ski Patrol played a critical role in the rescue of 20 soldiers who had been stranded in a blizzard on Mount Baldy. The patrollers braved treacherous conditions to reach the soldiers and evacuate them to safety, earning the patrol national recognition for their heroism.

Post-War Expansion and Professionalization

Following the war, the ski patrols of Alta and Snowbird experienced a period of rapid growth and professionalization. In 1948, the Alta Ski Patrol became the first ski patrol in the United States to adopt the "National Ski Patrol System," a standardized training and certification program developed by the National Ski Patrol.

The Snowbird Ski Patrol followed suit in 1952, incorporating the same rigorous training standards and protocols. This commitment to professionalization elevated the status of the patrols within the ski industry and established them as leaders in mountain safety.

Innovation and the Golden Age of Skiing

The 1950s and 1960s marked a golden age for skiing in the United States, and the Snowbird and Alta Ski Patrols were at the forefront of many of the innovations that defined the era. In 1955, Alta became the first ski resort in the United States to install a chairlift, revolutionizing the way skiers accessed the slopes.

The Snowbird Ski Patrol played a key role in the development of avalanche control techniques, pioneering the use of explosives to mitigate the risk of avalanches. In 1965, the Snowbird patrol conducted the first successful avalanche bombing in the Wasatch Mountains, paving the way for safer skiing conditions.

The Modern Era: Continued Service and Camaraderie

In the decades that followed, the Snowbird and Alta Ski Patrols continued to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the ski industry. They introduced new technologies, expanded their training programs, and strengthened their partnerships with other mountain safety organizations.

Throughout their long history, the Snowbird and Alta Ski Patrols have maintained a deep sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. Patrollers from both resorts regularly train and collaborate together, sharing knowledge and experiences to improve their effectiveness on the mountain.

The patrols also play an active role in the local community, volunteering their time for search and rescue operations, avalanche education programs, and youth ski programs. Their commitment to service extends far beyond the ski season, as they work year-round to maintain the safety of the Wasatch Mountains.

The Snowbird and Alta Ski Patrols stand as icons of mountain safety and service in the United States. For over a century, they have dedicated themselves to protecting skiers and snowboarders, pioneering new safety techniques, and fostering a spirit of camaraderie that transcends the slopes.

The stories of the individuals who have shaped these patrols are a testament to the human spirit and the power of collaboration. Their unwavering commitment to safety and the well-being of others has made the mountains a safer and more enjoyable place for generations of skiers and snowboarders.

As we look towards the future, the Snowbird and Alta Ski Patrols remain steadfast in their mission of providing the highest level of mountain safety services. They continue to embrace new technologies, innovate training programs, and collaborate with other organizations to ensure that the Wasatch Mountains remain a place where people can enjoy the thrill of skiing and snowboarding with confidence and peace of mind.

Avalanche Busters: A Historical Memoir of the Snowbird and Alta Ski Patrols

by Wayne Stewart

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4864 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	411 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE