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Embrace the Outdoors: Explore the Best Hiking and Walking Trails in Garrett County, Maryland

With the arrival of summer, it’s the perfect time to lace up your hiking boots, grab a water bottle, and embark on an outdoor adventure. Garrett County, Maryland, nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, offers an abundance of hiking and walking trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty. From lush forests and cascading waterfalls to panoramic vistas, these trails cater to all skill levels and provide opportunities to connect with nature. In this article, we will highlight some of the best hiking and walking trails in Garrett County, inviting you to explore the great outdoors.

Swallow Falls State Park is a true gem, boasting several beautiful hiking trails. The park’s main attraction is Muddy Creek Falls, Maryland’s highest free-falling waterfall. Take the easy 1.25-mile trail to witness the majestic cascade and continue to explore the park’s scenic surroundings. The Swallow Falls Canyon Loop Trail offers a moderate 1.25-mile hike through ancient hemlock forests, leading you to tranquil Swallow Falls and breathtaking Tolivar Falls.

Deep Creek Lake State Park not only offers water activities but also features picturesque hiking trails. The Indian Turnip Trail is a 1.4-mile loop trail that winds through hardwood forests and showcases stunning lake views. For a longer adventure, the Beckman’s Trail offers a 5.5-mile loop around the park, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the area’s diverse flora and nature.

Herrington Manor State Park is known for its serene lake, but it also offers fantastic trails to explore. The Hemlock Trail is an easy 1.2-mile loop that meanders through a beautiful forest of hemlock trees. For a longer hike, try the 6-mile Rock Maze Trail, which takes you on a journey through diverse landscapes, including scenic overlooks and the unique “rock maze” formation.

The Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center features interpretive exhibits and educational programs, as well as nature trails. The Lake Shore Trail is a 1.4-mile easy hike that takes you along the picturesque shoreline of Deep Creek Lake. Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the lake.

Located just outside of Garrett County, Casselman River Bridge State Park offers a historic and scenic hiking experience. The park’s trails lead you to the iconic Casselman River Bridge, built in 1813. Explore the 0.25-mile self-guided interpretive trail to learn about the history and significance of the bridge, and then continue onto the Great Allegheny Passage, a long-distance hiking and biking trail that follows the path of the former Western Maryland Railway.

Memorial Day

Today we honor the many women and men that lost their lives serving to protect our country and citizens. Many of us have family that we remember and honor on this day by picnics, family, and friend gatherings. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day to honor and mourn those who died while serving. Many volunteers place American flags on the graves of military personnel in national cemeteries.

Cities and towns across the United States host Memorial Day parades each year, including our own Oakland, Maryland. often incorporating military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations. Some of the largest parades take place in Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C.

Americans also observe Memorial Day by wearing a red poppy in remembrance of those fallen in war—a tradition that began with a World War I poem. On a less somber note, many people take weekend trips or throw parties and barbecues on the holiday, perhaps because Memorial Day weekend—the long weekend comprising the Saturday and Sunday before Memorial Day and Memorial Day itself—unofficially marks the beginning of summer.

The Best Things to Do in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

Deep Creek Lake State Park is an idyllic spot to launch a boat. Wisp Resort operates a rental kiosk on the park’s public beach for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and beach chairs.

Want to take paddling to the next level? Wisp has a 1,700-foot recirculating whitewater course on the top of the mountain, for gentler rapids than some on the nearby Youghiogheny River. Guides help rafts and kayaks maneuver the rock-lined loop. You can ride the ski chairlift to get to the course, taking in mountain and lake views.

Drop the paddle and start a motor at Lake Life Rentals in McHenry. The outfitter issues temporary boating licenses so you can steer pontoons with cushioned seats and a canopy for sun coverage. (Seafaring dogs are allowed.) For an additional fee, rent tubes to strap on the back of the boat.

The placid water makes the lake an ideal spot to learn how to waterski and wakeboard. Book a session with Rouse Water Sports, departing from the Deep Creek Marina Club. Greg Rouse, a waterski instructor with more than 30 years’ experience, uses a training boom—a bar that extends from the boat onto the water—for a beginner-friendly lesson. Start with waterskis, or if you’re more advanced, try barefoot skiing.

Beyond the lake, there are hikes that take you by local waterways. To learn more about the area’s ecology, reserve a spot on a river walk led by All Earth Eco Tours. Stroll along the Youghiogheny River while a guide points out plants and animals. After a mile walk upstream, the tour stops at a swimming hole for downtime in the water.

Stop at Firefly Farms Market to stock up on Maryland-made cheese, cured meats, and crackers. At the cafe, the farm’s cow’s- and goat’s-milk cheeses are folded into cheffy sandwiches. West Virginia’s Mountain State Brewing Company has an outpost in McHenry for pub fare, flatbread pizzas, and cold beers. The back patio often hosts live music in summer. For a sweet treat by the water, grab a cone from Lakeside Creamery or, to customize your confection, pick a glaze and toppings at Deep Creek Donuts.

for more The Best Things to Do in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland (washingtonian.com)

Deep Creek Farmers Market season begins

The Deep Creek Farmers Market is a community event that promotes a wholesome, social gathering place in our area showcasing the rich agricultural heritage, local craftspersons, and unique small businesses of the area. Visit food vendors, craftors, live bands, and more! The Mission of this market is to serve all Garrett County residents and visitors alike, and specifically the Deep Creek Lake/Northern Garrett County region. There are inherent benefits for the consumer, producer, and community where food is grown, purchased, and consumed locally. They strive to improve the variety, taste, and freshness of products available to consumers in our area. The Farmers Market is open every friday during the summer season from 3-6pm between the fairgrounds and the college parking lot. visit Deep Creek Farmers Market – “Grow, nourish, and inspire community” for more information

Throwback Thursday- Will O’ The Wisp

Will O’ The Wisp on Rt. 219, on Deep Creek Lake, Oakland, opened in late 1961 or early 1962. Mr. and Mrs. Helmuth Heise were the hosts.

The Four Seasons Dining Room had a grand opening on Saturday, May 26th 1962 at 3pm, at which time a beautiful 5′ by 9′ oil painting “Four Seasons” by artist Mr. Aza Stanton was unveiled. Charles Apostolou was the Chef.

Helmut died at age 82 in August, 2009. His nickname was “Ace.” He started ski area operations in 1955 in the Deep Creek Lake Area. Wisp Ski Resort was located on 3,080 foot Marsh Mountain. It had 23 slopes and trails totaling 14 miles. He sold his financial interest in Wisp Resort in 2001 yet remained as part of the management team. for more information visit (1) Western Maryland Historic | Facebook

Bobcat Academy gives students immersive college experience

Frostburg State University will be hosting students from both Allegany and Garrett Counties in a Dual Enrollment Pilot program next fall. The Bobcat Academy will give students an immersive college experience and an opportunity to earn college credits while completing their senior year of high school. Dr. Kim Green-Kalbaugh, Chief Academic Officer for Allegany County, spoke about the academy at this month’s school board meeting. Garrett County schools will have open house events on May 19th and 30th for students and parents interested in the Bobcat Academy.

for more information Bobcat Academy gives students immersive college experience | WCBC (wcbcradio.com)

Arrowhead Cove pilot dredging project on the table

May 12, 2023, by Eldin Ganic

Arrowhead Cove, at Deep Creek Lake, has been selected as a priority area for a pilot dredging project, Garrett County Chamber of Commerce said.

The project will involve the removal of accumulated sediment from the lakebed, revitalizing the waterbody, providing greater boater access, and preserving its ecological integrity.

In this pilot dredging project, Garrett County, the State of Maryland, property owners, and stakeholders will evaluate the pros and cons of dredging within Deep Creek Lake and determine if dredging other sediment-impacted Deep Creek Lake coves is a viable and cost-effective strategy for improving water recreation, water quality, and fish habitat.

The State of Maryland has provided all the funding for the project costs thanks in part to the efforts of former Senator George Edwards and former Delegate Wendell Beitzel.

A request for bids has been released and construction is anticipated to begin in late September 2023.

A public meeting will be held to share the analysis, timeline, and details of the project on Wednesday, May 24, at Garrett College GIEC, beginning at 6pm.

for more information Arrowhead Cove pilot dredging project on the table – Dredging Today

Deep Creek Lake plans ‘A Walk for Recovery’ on May 13

As both sponsorships and awareness continue to grow for “A Walk for Recovery,” so does the momentum for the focus of the effort: plans for Reflection House, the first residential treatment facility in Garrett County for women suffering from substance use disorder.

The event is set for 9 a.m. Saturday, May 13, at Deep Creek Lake State Park.

The two-mile walk will be open to all as a way to unify and strengthen the community. It is family, kid and pet friendly.

for more information Deep Creek Lake plans ‘A Walk for Recovery’ on May 13 | Preston County News | wvnews.com

Throwback to Deer Park Hotel

One of our most notable landmarks is the historic Deer Park Hotel, which was established in 1889. The hotel was a popular vacation resort and played host to several U.S. presidents and other dignitaries over the years The hotel caught fire in 1944, resulting in significant damage and leaving only a small portion of the building salvageable. This remaining section is now known as The Deer Park Inn and Restaurant while it’s legacy lives on in the Garrett County Historical Society Museums.

As you explore the natural beauty of Garrett County, take a moment to imagine what life was like for the guests who stayed at the Deer Park Hotel over a century ago.

more information Garrett County Mountain Maryland Gateway to the West Heritage Area | McHenry MD | Facebook

Garrett County Gran Fondo – Ride Through the Scenic Wonders of Mountain Maryland

Get ready for a wild ride through the scenic wonders of the Deep Creek Lake area and mountain Maryland. The 12th annual Garrett County Gran Fondo is now accepting registrations and is proudly presented by the Garrett Trails Organization

MCHENRY, MD, May 05, 2023 /24-7PressRelease/ — Whether you’re a casual cyclist or an experienced athlete, this challenging ride is guaranteed to offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the stunning views of the mountains to the vibrant culture at each stop, riders will get to experience all that mountain Maryland has to offer. Not only that, riders can rest assured knowing that their efforts will be put to good use in supporting local trail initiatives led by the Garrett Trails Organization.

Garrett County, Maryland is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and unique outdoor experiences. On Saturday, June 17th, 2023, cyclists from all over the country will have a chance to take in the beauty and majesty of this region with the Garrett County Gran Fondo cycling event.

This challenging ride will take riders on a 25 -125-mile route through some of the most picturesque spots in mountain Maryland. Along the way, riders will get to experience some of Garrett County’s best attractions such as Deep Creek Lake and the scenic Youghiogheny River.

photo via Garrett County Gran Fondo – Ride Through the Scenic Wonders of Mountain Maryland (digitaljournal.com)

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