Written By: Ally Karacozoff
Another amazing season of Military to the Mountains (M2M) has come to a close, and this 10th consecutive year was a special one, as it was High Fives Foundation’s first M2M trip to Solitude Mountain Resort.
M2M gives U.S. veterans and first responders with life-changing injuries the opportunity to challenge themselves at nine weeks of intensive physical training in preparation for a week of skiing/snowboarding at some of the most desirable winter sports destinations in the country—Palisades Tahoe in California, and now Solitude Mountain Resort in Utah. To date, High Fives has facilitated these once-in-a-lifetime experiences for 197 individuals who have served in the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, CIA/FBI, Coast Guard, and been on the front lines as first responders.
M2M Palisades Tahoe
Our first ski week, hosted at Palisades Tahoe this March, introduced 21 veterans to this world-renowned ski resort. The trip kicked off with a pizza party at High Fives’ Mothership Classic event where the energy was electric. On day two, veterans warmed up at Woodward Tahoe, practicing their tricks and front flips into foam pits followed by a serious dodgeball competition that had no shortage of laughs. Gear fittings and on-hill skiing experiences commenced the following day and throughout the week, concluding with the traditional graduation dinner where awards and prizing are provided for M2M participants.
“I was given a new sport, which will give me the opportunity to continue to recreate in winter sports that I no longer thought I was going to be able to.”
Tony G. | Marine Corps, M2M CA participant
“When I looked at the red sign that said, “Experts Only”, and then continue right past it. It made me feel empowered, and I still have the ability to conquer so much.”
Mike R. | Marine Corps, M2M UT participant
Full Palisades Photo Album HERE
M2M Solitude Mountain Resort
We traveled to Solitude Mountain Resort in April, bringing 11 more veterans to witness the magnificent views of the Wasatch Mountains and apply all their strength and conditioning from the training camp at Adaptive Training Foundation to new situations. Novel experiences are a huge component of M2M, as many of the participants haven’t had the opportunity to try winter sports before. The Solitude community provided the warmest welcome for this group of M2M participants and for the entire camp to run as smooth as freshly waxed skis.
“Fighting through fear and pain and experiencing joy after pushing through that fear. Getting better at something and having a community of people to help.”
Joel W. | Marine Corps, M2M UT participant
Military to the Mountains is a huge collective effort. A big thank you to all staff, coaches, volunteers, and of course, our veterans and first responders. We appreciate all that you do.
We can’t wait for next year and to meet the Class of 2025. Until next year!
“I am a better human because of Military to the Mountain.”
George F. | Air Force, M2M CA participant
Full Solitude Photo Album HERE
