In these days of Gore-Tex and heated sky cars, it can be difficult to imagine the bravery and daring of the original pioneers who tackled the slopes with little more than a pair of wooden skis and a woolen hat. The New England Ski Museum (I-93, exit 34B, Franconia Notch State Park, 603/823-7177, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily, late May–Mar., free) at the base of Cannon Mountain has an extensive collection of antique equipment and signage as well as biographical exhibits on some of the colorful men—and women—who brought the sport into the limelight.Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves.
A special exhibit looks at the elite 10th Mountain Division of New England skiers who fought in World War II.