Army Ranger Snow Training?

I've run into military training groups on those white skis a couple of times, including coming down after a week in the Eldorado area. I've also seen them training in alpine climbing up on Baker. One of their instructors once told me they were strong, tough, and good at following orders without question...but their technical skills were more or less in line with other beginners.

I have seen them from time to time either at Crystal Mtn., at the Huckleberry creek snopark, or at Camp Sheppard where they stay during the winter.  They used to have a camp at Huckleberry creek. <br><br>They ones I saw used cable bindings with leather boots.  I haven't noticed what brand.  Several times I have talked with them .  I rode the chair at Crystal last year a couple of times with a group of them.  They are always friendly and seem to be having a good time.  I would too if somebody paid me to play in the snow.

I think I remember seeing soldiers at Crystal Mountain on pretty decent gear. I remember them using plastic mountaineering boots and Silvretta bindings. This was a few years ago and my memory may be faulty. These guys were riding the lifts. Maybe there are different units who train up there using different gear.<br><br>I believe Paul Ramer used to sell bindings to the military, but I can't recall ever seeing any soldiers using them.