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Non-Stop Action for the Active

A good starting point for the undecided is the area’s all-season focal point: Wisp Mountain Resort (301/387-4911). While a premium ski destination (great snow conditions due to an altitude of 2,415 ft. at the base and 3,115 ft. at the summit), this winter resort is just as fun in the summer as a one-stop-shop for any recreation. Activities range from Frisbee golf, to a skate park, ATV tours, mountain biking, paintball, fly fishing or kayaking.

My favorite was trying the adventurous mountain boarding – a summer version of snow boarding – which is a skateboard with larger, air filled rubber wheels and a hand brake for negotiating the grassed mountain ski trails; lessons are included. Don’t pass up the Super Sunday Outdoor Expo every (of course) Sunday which lets anyone try all the activities as much as they want for free. Complimentary snacks, treats, kiddy games and souvenirs are included – definitely one of the best buys in the area.

A Convenient & Affordable Resort

In fact, consider staying at Wisp at their Wisp Resort Hotel and Conference Center (800/462-9477). While many visitors rent local cottages (usually by the week) because they are the best for a waterfront access and view, The Wisp Resorts puts you at the foot of their mountain, near everything you would want including an excellent restaurant (DC's Bar and Restaurant). Get one of Wisp Resort Hotel’s family packages – especially if golfing at championship courses is a priority. The family package includes a myriad of passes and discounts for the activities and it’s even more rewarding if your vacation is scheduled around the various golfing, mountain boarding, ATV and mountain biking tournaments the resort hosts.

Wisp also holds the honor for best local pampering. Their Sewickley Spa provides types of salon services and massages so varied that I never even of heard of them – but I am a guy. The peak seasons are summer and winter – but the summer peak isn’t in full force until after the July 4th holiday period. If the warmer lake water temperatures of August are not a priority, take advantage of the mini-shoulder summer season between the end of school and the 4th of July – providing the best of summer with fewer crowds, better prices and more flexible accommodation opportunities.

Having praised the resort, for waterfront access and seclusion, many rent from lodges, cottages and condos. A good starting point for all things Deep Creek and, therefore, an excellent resources for rentals, is the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. They publish a slick and comprehensive one-stop-shop guide; another online source for help with rentals is Deep Creek Resort.