From the First Tracks to the Fall Line

The Museum’s centerpiece permanent exhibit, From the First Tracks to the Fall Line: Eight Thousand Years of Skiing, chronicles skiing’s remarkable evolution across millennia and continents. This exhibition ties global ski history to the local stories of Franconia and Cannon Mountain, creating a rich narrative tapestry.

Highlights include:

  • Skiing’s Prehistoric Roots: Discover authentic replicas of prehistoric skis, crafted by Central Asian tribesmen who still use these tools for survival in snowy regions. These artifacts offer a tangible connection to skiing’s ancient origins.
  • Cannon Mountain’s Pioneering Contributions: Learn about the groundbreaking “firsts” that solidify Cannon Mountain’s place in ski history, including the construction of North America’s first aerial tramway in 1938. Explore vintage images, maps, and artifacts that highlight these historic milestones.
  • Celebrating Bode Miller: Admire memorabilia from Franconia native and Olympic champion Bode Miller, including his iconic K2 Fours skis and five Olympic medals. This section pays homage to Miller’s exceptional career and his influence on modern skiing.
  • Multimedia Film Experiences: Watch film clips on topics ranging from avalanche safety to snowboarding’s early days. These interactive displays bring the stories of skiing’s innovation and challenges to life.
  • The Creation of the National Ski Patrol: Learn about the formation of the NSP in the 1930s, which set the foundation for modern ski safety. This organization also played a pivotal role in advocating for the 10th Mountain Division, the U.S. Army’s elite alpine troops.
  • 10th Mountain Division Impact: Discover how World War II veterans from the 10th Mountain Division contributed to the development of ski resorts across the country after the war. Artifacts and photographs illustrate their lasting influence on the ski industry.
  • The Rise of Modern Ski Resorts: Explore the growth of ski resorts during the 1950s and 1960s, followed by the challenges of the 1970s and 1980s when many smaller areas closed—creating the phenomenon of “Lost Ski Areas.”
  • Nordic Skiing: Witness the rise of Nordic skiing’s popularity alongside the emergence of American skiing styles, such as freestyle and snowboarding, in the 1970s.
  • Freestyle Skiing & Snowboarding: Learn about the emergence of two new forms of skiing that started in the United States: snowboarding and freestyle skiing. Waterville Valley in NH is considered the birthplace of freestyle skiing.
Photo of Tuckerman Ravine photomural

Tuckerman Ravine Photomural

One of the exhibit’s standout features is a breathtaking 12-foot-wide photomural of Tuckerman Ravine during the snowiest winter on record in 1969. Visitors can pose before the mural, creating the illusion of standing within this iconic backcountry ski destination.