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Winter at Deep Creek Lake

In winter, the abundant woodland of Deep Creek Lake is transformed by the sculptural majesty of Mother Nature. Visitors proclaim that the area takes on the imagery of a fantasyland.

Both hiking and cross-country skiing allow you to enjoy this winter wonderland firsthand. The state parks offer miles of trails both cleared and primitive for hikers and cross country enthusiasts. Six miles of maintained trails and an equal amount of primitive trails are available at Herrington Manor. Deep Creek and Swallow Falls State Parks also provide marked hiking trails that can be used by cross-country skiers. New Germany provides cleared and maintained trails as well as a snow cleared parking lot. The annual Kick and Glide Cross Country Ski Race takes place at Herrington Manor State Park in January and other races are held in February at New Germany State Park. Rentals are available at local sports stores and at Herrington Manor.

Downhill skiing and snowboarding are available at Wisp Ski Resort. With a vertical drop of 700' and 32 trails available, skiers of all levels of experience will enjoy a wide range of terrain . 90% of the trails are lighted for night skiing and are supported by Wisp's extensive snow making equipment. Two quad chairlifts, five triple chairlifts plus two ski carpets and four handle tows can handle an uphill capacity of over 9,000 skiers per hour. Ski lessons and a children's center are available as well as a variety of restaurants. Bear Claw Snow Tubing Park offers fun for all ages. If you enjoy sledding, you'll love snow tubing.

Dogsledding tours have become the new excitement in Deep Creek Lake. Husky Power offers a wide range of activities from short runs at the Discovery Center to long Adventure tours packed full with fun.

January and February find many devoted fishermen taking to the ice. Ice fishing is becoming more popular. Yellow perch, walleye, northern perch and trout are just a few of the catches.

Snowmobiling is an exciting and popular winter sport. With the large amount of snowfall each year, Deep Creek offers a great setting for this fun filled sport. 35 miles of trails are available in the state forests. Local nature tourism vendors offer snowmobile tours during January and February. An annual permit is required for each machine that will be operating on public lands. Please contact any Maryland State Park for this permit and regulations.

In March, the state parks also offer demonstrations on the production of maple syrup and even maple syrup pancake breakfasts.

While some visitors enjoy these exciting and thrilling activities, others retreat to Deep Creek to experience the peace and serenity. Imagine curling up in an overstuffed chair with a good book, playing board games by the fire, or listening to your favorite music as the snow falls just outside. Whatever is your desire, you will marvel at the winter beauty of Deep Creek Lake.