| Deep Creek Lake’s Centennial Celebration Deep Creek Lake will have its 100th birthday in 2025, and we’ll be celebrating all year long with events and projects throughout the year. Visit dcl100.com for all the latest updates. Lecture Series Underway  Every Thursday in March, the DCL100 Committee is presenting a lecture at the Performing Arts Center at Garrett College on a different aspect of the lake. We’ve had two great lectures so far and have two more coming up. For our first lecture, Chance Friend – Naturalist with the MD Department of Natural Resources – gave a fantastic presentation on Wildlife and Habitats of Deep Creek Lake. We messed up on recording it (forgot to turn on the mic) BUT, Chance is such a great professional that he’s agreed to record himself doing the presentation. We’ll get that posted when he does!  The second speaker, Eric Null – former manager of the Deep Creek Lake Natural Resources Management Area and current Executive Director of Trout Unlimited in Pennsylvania – gave a Master Class on fishing in Deep Creek Lake. If you’re looking to catch some fish in Deep Creek Lake, you need to watch his lecture! https://youtu.be/TjFFtPKrPug  Coming up on March 20th, the operations manager from Brookfield Renewable US will talk about the operation of the dam. If you’ve ever wondered how the power plant makes electricity and where it goes, check out this presentation!And on March 27, Karen Myers will talk about the history of real estate at Deep Creek Lake. She will share her decades of experience to tell us about how some of the well-known property development came to be.The Lecture Series will occur each Thursday in March 2025 at 6pm at the Performing Arts Center at Garrett College. Attendees at the lectures will be able to collect a DCL100 Exploration Ticket and receive the punch for the month of March, and they will be able to enter to win a DCL100 swag pack. The use of the Performing Arts Center and AV support have been generously contributed by Garrett College. Practice your Swing DanceAre you looking to get ready for the DCL100 Gala? Brush up on your dance moves this month! The Garrett Jazz Ensembles returns for another Swing Dance! Entrance is by donation and will benefit Cindy’s Fund. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Come and dance the night away with Garrett County’s local swing band! Saturday March 29, 6-9pm at the Performing Arts Center at Garrett CollegeTrivia Nights  Local “EMCEE Extraordinaire” Connor Norman will be heading up our DCL Team Trivia Nights every Thursday in April at Ace’s Run starting at 6pm. Each game will have 20 questions and will last about 2 hours. There will be preview questions and answers posted on ours and Connor’s social media the week before the events, so stay tuned to get the heads up! Entry is free and we’ll provide the trivia trackers, answer sheets, pens etc. Delicious food and drink will be available for purchase at Ace’s. And of course, there will be awesome prizes! More event news Earth Day Cleanup – Saturday April 26th – we’ll be partnering with Red Beard Scuba and Recovery for a lake cleanup in celebration of Earth Day. Stay tuned for details!DCL100 Golf Tournament – July 8th at Thousand Acres Golf Course – swing your clubs at the amazing new course at Thousand Acres Golf Club – more details coming soon!Deep Creek Lake 100th Birthday Bash – July 19th at the Fairgrounds-Planning is coming along for the big event of the year – contact our Event Chair Missy Gralish if you would like to volunteer or become involved!Our vendor application is now available! Limited-edition serigraphThe Maryland Park Service has commissioned a limited-edition serigraph print by renowned artist Erick Sahler. This stunning artwork captures the beauty of Deep Creek Lake, featuring a tranquil shoreline at Deep Creek Lake State Park, a fisherman’s boat, and the iconic Glendale Bridge rising in the background.Sahler, an Illustrator Member of the prestigious Society of Illustrators, is known for his vibrant and masterfully crafted serigraphs that reflect the spirit of the mid-Atlantic region. This commemorative piece will soon be available for purchase at the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center, offering a timeless keepsake for those who cherish the lake. Stay tuned for details on its release or contact the Discovery Center at 301-387-7067.  Full event listing And here’s the full list of events we’ve got on deck – be sure to check the website and our social media for updates! March 6,13, 20 & 27, 2025—Lecture series about various aspects of Deep Creek Lake @ the Performing Arts Center at Garrett College – each Thursday at 6pm in March (environmental, recreational, proactively working to ensure the health of Deep Creek Lake for the next 100 years and beyond. Facebook event pageApril 3,10,17 & 24, 2025– Deep Creek Lake Team Trivia nights at Ace’s Run – test your DCL knowledge – prizes for winning teams. Facebook event pageApril 27, 2025 – Picture Party at Ace’s Restaurant (hosted by Brenda McDonnell) Facebook event pageApril 29, 2025 – Amazing Grazing – the Taste of Garrett County – DCL100 partnering with Stage WEST at GC Ag HallMay 12, 2025 – FREE Admission to Deep Creek Lake State Park (sponsored by the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers)May 24, 2025—Deep Creek Lake Adventure Challenge – Based at Wisp Resort, teams will travel around the lake and compete in puzzles, trivia and physical challenges with prizes for teams with the most points! Facebook event pageJune 21, 2025 – FREE Admission to Deep Creek Lake State Park (sponsored by the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers)June 21, 2025 – Recreation Fair at Deep Creek Lake State Park (sponsored by the Garrett County Health Department’s Population Health, Innovation, and Informatics Unit)June 21, 2025 – Boat parade on Deep Creek Lake – Put on by the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club, the parade will feature entries from all towns, various businesses, individuals and organizations. Facebook event pageJune 27, 2025 –DCL100 parade float in Grantsville Days ParadeJuly 4, 2025 – DCL100 parade float in Accident Homecoming ParadeJuly 5, 2025 – DCL100 Sailboat Regatta on Deep Creek Lake held by the Deep Creek Yacht Racing AssociationJuly 8, 2025 – DCL100 Golf Tournament at Thousand AcresJuly 12 – 13, 2025 – Victorian Chautauqua in Mt Lake Park featuring one or more speaker portrayers with DCL connectionsJuly 19, 2025 – DCL100 Birthday Bash – FREE or low charge entrance to a festival at the Garrett County Fairgrounds—to feature bands & music, a Kidzone, parade, craft & arts displays and sales, food vendors, contests and a special ending surprise (12 noon – 10 pm) Facebook event pageJuly 21, 2025 – FREE Admission to Deep Creek Lake State Park (sponsored by the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers)July 26, 2025 – DCL100 parade float in Kitzmiller Homecoming ParadeAugust 14, 2025 – FREE Admission to Deep Creek Lake State Park (sponsored by the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers)August 16, 2025 – DCL 100 parade float in Friendsville Days ParadeAugust 23, 2025 – Deep Creek Lake Centennial Gala – at Wisp Resort – Roaring 20’s theme with Big Band live music—capacity –400 people Facebook event pageSept 6, 2025 – Deep Creek Lake Art and Wine Festival – held by HART for AnimalsSept 7,2025 – Watersports Exhibition on Deep Creek LakeSeptember – end of October – Cove Run Corn Maze will feature a DCL100 themeFor more information on the events during the Centennial, visit dcl100.com or contact deepcreeklakepoa@gmail.com to learn more about sponsoring the celebration, volunteering or sharing photographs, memories or memorabilia. Our Sponsors Much thanks to the sponsors of the DCL100!The DCL100 CommitteeThe Deep Creek Lake Centennial Committee, was established in 2023 by the Property Owners’ Association of Deep Creek Lake to celebrate the centennial of the lake in 2025. The DCL100 Committee, comprised of representatives from over 10 organizations, has the mission to celebrate the history of the lake and to promote its protection for the next 100 years and beyond Follow us!Property Owners’ Association of Deep Creek Lake, IncPO Box 816, McHenry |
Wolf Den Run State Park Trail Added to Jeep ‘Badge of Honor’ Program
Maryland Department Of Natural Resources
An off-highway vehicle trail at Wolf Den Run State Park is now part of the Jeep Badge of Honor trail program. The Jeep brand announced the designation on Feb. 28, along with designations for trails in Minnesota and Washington. There are 61 Badge of Honor trails nationwide.
When a driver takes on the adventure of completing a trail, they are rewarded with a badge through the program, which they can proudly display on their vehicle. For adventure-seekers, these badges mark achievements they can trace throughout the U.S.
“Owner feedback is essential at the Jeep brand, and Trail 2103 was one of the most highly requested. We’re excited to finally bring it to life. With no previous trails in Maryland, this addition helps us achieve our goal of ‘spreading the love’ by filling in geographical gaps and offering new adventures to our Jeep community in every corner of the country,” said Joe Brungardt, manager, Jeep Badge of Honor program.
Located in the Potomac River Area of the park, Trail 2103 follows the north branch of the Potomac River through the rocky forest. Maryland Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance Board Member Ken Kyler nominated Trail 2103 through Jeep’s Badge of Honor phone app, and thinks the trail was selected because it has amazing views of the Potomac River. There are more challenging trails at Wolf Den Run, but none with such scenery.
“Particularly in the springtime when the rhododendrons and dogwoods are out, it’s just a flat-out gorgeous trail,” Kyler said.
Kyler encouraged other off-road enthusiasts to nominate the trail, including those from the Capitol Off-Road Enthusiasts (CORE 4×4).
CORE 4×4 President Jendra Rambharos said his organization has hosted events at Wolf Den Run since the park’s opening in 2019. These trips include camping, eating at local restaurants and using local repair shops.
“The proximity to Deep Creek, and the amenities there are also a draw for us, as we’ve visited, stayed at, and even fished in the area, adding to both public and private resources through amenities and licensing,” Rambharos said.
DNR worked with Jeep to get the information submitted for the recognition.
“We want to thank the community for nominating our trail for this prestigious program – it shows off-highway recreation is gaining traction here in Maryland and provides another way to get people connected to the land as well as provides an important economic impact to the nearby community,” Maryland Office of Outdoor Recreation Director Sandi Olek said.
Park Manager Donald Oates said there are unique rock outcroppings along the trail. The area has rugged and mountainous terrain, with meadows, wetlands, small tributaries and many ephemeral streams throughout. Drivers may encounter the occasional water feature depending on the time of year.
Trail 2103 isn’t the only fun OHV trail at Wolf Den – there are more than 50 miles of trails to check out. Campsites are also available.
“We have miles and miles of trails that are good for Jeeps,” Oates said.
Most off-road trails at Wolf Den Run are former mining or logging roads, with plenty of space for larger vehicles like Jeeps. Trail 2103 can be made into a loop using trails 2104 and 2101. A map of Trail 2103 and adjoining trails can be found on the Wolf Den Run State Park website.
There are no air compressors available at the park, so drivers need to plan accordingly and be prepared.
Wolf Den Run State Park opened in 2019, the first park in the state to offer trails for off-road vehicles. Maryland Park Service expanded Wolf Den Run in 2020.
Before the park opened, Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance Board volunteers spent a day clearing appliances and other large debris from the site. The Alliance and DNR work together to promote environmental stewardship when riding. ATV
Riders can recreate responsibly by staying on designated trails, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other trail users. In addition, riders can practice good stewardship by avoiding muddy areas, crossing streams at a 90-degree angle, using four-wheel low and first gear for engine braking, and going over obstacles like rocks rather than around them to prevent trail widening and erosion.
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The 10 Snowiest Cities in Maryland for Scenic Winter Weather
Story by Liz McKinley B.Sc. Environmental Science
No surprises here – every town is in Western Maryland and Garett County claims 6 of the top 10 snowiest towns in Maryland!
1. Oakland: A Snow Enthusiast’s Paradise
Oakland, located in Garrett County, often tops the list when it comes to snowfall in Maryland. Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, this city receives an impressive amount of snow each winter.
The combination of elevation and position makes it a prime spot for snow accumulation. Residents and visitors alike enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
The Swallow Falls State Park, with its frozen waterfalls, becomes a mesmerizing sight during winter, drawing in photographers and nature lovers. The charming downtown area, draped in snow, offers a cozy ambiance perfect for enjoying a hot cocoa or exploring local shops.
3. McHenry: Gateway to Adventure
McHenry is another gem in Garrett County, providing a gateway to the Wisp Resort, Maryland’s only ski resort. This city is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, offering skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
The Deep Creek Lake area, enveloped in snow, provides a serene backdrop for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. McHenry’s snow-covered landscapes, combined with its outdoor activities, make it a favorite among families and adventure seekers.
The local community embraces the winter season, hosting events and festivals that celebrate the joys of snow.
5. Grantsville: A Quaint Winter Hideaway
Grantsville is a small town with a big heart when it comes to embracing winter. Known for its close-knit community and scenic surroundings, this town receives a generous amount of snow each year.
The Casselman River Bridge State Park, with its historic bridge framed by snow, offers a picturesque setting for winter walks. Local inns and bed-and-breakfasts provide cozy accommodations, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the winter charm.
The town’s annual winter festival is a highlight, featuring local crafts, food, and entertainment
6. Friendsville: Nature’s Snowy Embrace
Friendsville, a hidden gem in Garrett County, offers a peaceful retreat for those who appreciate the tranquility of snow-covered landscapes. This small town is surrounded by natural beauty, with the Youghiogheny River providing a stunning backdrop.
During winter, the area is perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The local community is welcoming, often hosting events that bring residents and visitors together to celebrate the winter season.
Friendsville’s serene ambiance makes it an ideal spot for reflection and relaxation amid nature’s snowy embrace.
7. Mountain Lake Park: A Historic Snow Haven
Mountain Lake Park is a town with a rich history and a penchant for snow. Once a popular resort town, it still retains its charm and allure during the winter months.
The town is known for its Victorian architecture, which looks even more enchanting dusted with snow. Winter enthusiasts can explore the town’s parks and trails, which offer opportunities for snowshoeing and winter hiking.
The community often comes together to celebrate the season with events that highlight the town’s history and culture, adding to its wintertime appeal.
8. Accident: A Charming Snowy Escape
Accident might have an unusual name, but its winter beauty is no accident. This small town in Garrett County is known for its friendly community and picturesque snow-covered landscapes.
The town’s rural setting provides ample opportunities for winter activities such as sledding and ice skating on frozen ponds. Local farms and markets offer seasonal produce and goods, adding to the town’s charm.
Visitors often find themselves captivated by the town’s simplicity and warmth, making it a delightful escape during the winter months.
12 of the Most Underrated States in the U.S. For Natural Beauty
By Hannah Healy
Maryland
Named after Queen Mary, Maryland often gets upstaged by the big-city buzz of nearby Washington D.C. and Virginia’s historic sites, but it’s got its own stunning landscapes. From Assateague Island’s wild beaches to Patapsco Valley’s fantastic hiking trails, there’s so much more to see.
In Western Maryland, you’ll find Deep Creek Lake just minutes from Swallow Falls State Park. Southern Maryland offers breathtaking cliffs along the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland may be small, but its natural beauty is anything but!
Garrett County Progress in Motion Updates on Local Business, Jobs, and Community Growth
A Message from Steve Kelley:
Reflecting on Progress: Key Economic Wins in 2024 and Our 2025 Future
As 2024 is behind us, it’s clear—Garrett County is on the move. The past year has been a testament to the power of smart investment, community-driven growth, and the tenacity of our local businesses. We’ve made real progress, setting the stage for an even stronger 2025.
Our focus has always been on making Garrett County the best place for families to live, work, and thrive. This year, we’ve doubled down on infrastructure, housing, business expansion, and healthcare—laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth. Thanks to the tireless efforts of our community development team and the support of local leaders, we’re not just keeping up—we’re winning.
Economic success doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It happens because of the hardworking, determined people who call Garrett County home. The grit and perseverance of our homegrown businesses have fueled organic growth, proving that our strongest asset is our community itself. With their relentless drive, we are leading the way.
Major Investments That Are Shaping Our Future
Housing & Community Growth
· North Hill Community – $900,000 from the Senator George Edwards Economic Development Fund for infrastructure supporting 126 senior housing units (55+).
· Town of Accident – Flat Street – $435,000 from the Senator George Edwards Economic Development Fund for infrastructure, creating 10 new residential building lots.
· Springs Housing (Hemlock Grove) – $1,200,000 from the Senator George Edwards Economic Development Fund for infrastructure in Grantsville, adding approximately 60 single-family homes priced at $200,000–$250,000.
· Cherry Hill – $1,000,000 from the Senator George Edwards Economic Development Fund to develop a 24-bed assisted living facility in Oakland/Mountain Lake Park.
Healthcare & Community Services Expansion
· Mountain Laurel Medical Center – $1,000,000 from the Senator George Edwards Economic Development Fund for expansion and remodeling in Grantsville, adding a pharmacy, imaging center, and exam rooms.
· Quest for Hope – $167,455 from the Senator George Edwards Economic Development Fund to remodel a new counseling facility in Grantsville, providing critical mental health support for the community.
Business & Industrial Park Development
Keyser’s Ridge Business Park
· New Facility – 15 acres under contract (NDA in place) with an estimated creation of 25+ jobs.
· Shell Building – Daystar Construction will build a 50,000 sq. ft. facility to market for sale or lease.
· Centralized Propane Facility – Providing metered propane service to tenants, a necessity since natural gas is not an option at this location.
· Access Road – Set for completion in 2025, opening several new lots for development.
Southern Garrett Business & Technology Park
· Sunrise Sanitation – Purchasing Lot 9 to relocate from West Virginia, creating 26 new full-time jobs and expanding waste collection and recycling services.
McHenry Business Park
· CannaBarons – Purchasing the Medco building, with an estimated addition of 40–60 full-time jobs.
· Hannick Homes – Under contract for a new office building, expanding local business presence.
Francis Sanders Drive
· CHIPS Properties – Purchasing two acres for a new office and warehouse, expanding operations due to new contracts in West Virginia.
Renewable Energy & Solar Development
Garrett County is solidifying its role as a leader in renewable energy with two massive solar projects:
· Backbone Solar – 900 acres currently under construction.
· Jade Meadow – 1,000 acres scheduled to begin development in 2026.
Once completed, Garrett County will host the two largest solar projects in Maryland. Meanwhile, we continue to receive a flood of community solar project requests each week, further emphasizing our region’s attractiveness for clean energy investment.
Parks & Trails Expansion
Through numerous grants and partnerships, Siera Wigfield continues to expand and enhance our parks and trails, moving closer to a long-term vision of connecting our communities through an integrated trail system. These efforts will provide increased recreational opportunities, boost tourism, and improve overall quality of life.
Airport Development & Expansion
The Garrett County Airport continues to grow as a key economic asset, supporting both tourism and business operations. The airport provides small freight and ground support services for commercial and general aviation, enhancing its role in regional economic development.
Adison Wyer is the new Airport Manager.
· Tourism Expansion – Contract in place to allow a local pilot to offer bi-plane tours.
· New Hangars – Leasing more ground for additional hangars on the west apron, with the potential for eight box hangars for businesses or individuals.
· McHenry Business Park Access – Working with the FAA and MAA to construct a new access road to open additional development opportunities.
· Monthly Rentals: Several “T” hangars are available for pilots
· Opportunities: Option to construct up to 8 box hangars for interested businesses or individuals.
Holding Our Own & Leading the Way
In a state struggling to keep up with the economic trends shaping our region and the nation, Garrett County is holding its own—and then some. From housing to business expansion, renewable energy to aviation, our county continues to make the right moves, proving that smart investments and a strong community can drive lasting success.
Lastly, note a key driver of our business development success is our dedicated team. Kim Durst, Manager of Business Development, brings invaluable expertise, while Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist, takes a hands-on approach to business engagement. Together, they ensure our local businesses have the support, resources, and connections needed to grow and thrive.
With momentum on our side, we’re ready for an even bigger 2025.
Created 3/14/2025 12:33pm
Last Updated 3/14/2025 12:38pm
203 South Fourth Street, Oakland, Maryland 21550
Phone: 301-334-1921
DCL 100
Deep Creek Lake Centennial Committee announces lecture series
MCHENRY — The Deep Creek Lake Centennial Committee (DCL100) has announced the lineup for its Lecture Series.
Every Thursday in March, the DCL100 Committee will present a lecture at the Performing Arts Center at Garrett College on a different aspect of the lake.
Planned lectures include:
March 6: “Wildlife and Natural Habitats of Deep Creek Lake” Chance Friend, Naturalist Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Even though it was not intentional, Deep Creek Lake has become the habitat for a rich ecosystem of wildlife that have adapted to the “new” waterbody. A Naturalist from Deep Creek Lake State Park will go through the predominant wildlife around the lake, including many fascinating, but lesser known species.
March 13: “The Fish of Deep Creek Lake” Eric Null, Executive Director Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited.
Null will share his extensive knowledge of the fish species, habitats and behavior of the fish of the lake with the potential to learn about special techniques and hot spots.
March 20: “Operation of the Deep Creek Hydroelectric Station” Operations Manager Brookfield Renewable.
The dam that forms Deep Creek Lake is rather unremarkable in appearance, but it channels water to a power plant that generates enough electricity to power thousands of homes.
The Operations Manager of the owner and operator of the dam and power plant will provide an overview of how hydroelectric power works and how the electricity it generates gets to the grid and its end users.
March 27: “History of Real Estate at Deep Creek Lake” Karen Myers, Taylor Made Deep Creek Sales.
The State of Maryland first defined most of the property parcels in the county when it created 50 acre lots as payment to soldiers in the Revolutionary War.
Myers will go through how these lots changed (and how much they cost) to become many of the lake-area property developments we recognize today.
The Lecture Series will occur each Thursday in March at 6 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center at Garrett College.
Attendees at the lectures will be able to collect a DCL100 Exploration Ticket and receive the stamp for the month of March, and they will be able to enter to win a DCL100 swag pack.
The use of the Performing Arts Center and AV support have been generously contributed by Garrett College.
The lectures will be recorded and published to YouTube for those who are unable to attend in person.
For more info on the lectures and the Centennial,go to dcl100.com.
