Spend a winter weekend at Deep Creek Lake, Maryland.
When the snow piles high in western Maryland, Deep Creek Lake becomes a true wonderland. The frozen shoreline, the crunch of boots on frosty trails, and a lineup of cozy inns and lively restaurants make this getaway equal parts adventurous and indulgent—and the slopes of Wisp Resort are just minutes away.
Your lodging choices are as varied as the lake itself. The family-run Garrett Inn offers straightforward comfort and a great location, while Suites at Silver Tree gives you spacious accommodations right on the waterfront. Cove Creek Lodge is filled with just-right amenities, and Lake Pointe Inn, with its fireplaces and deep armchairs perfect for thawing out after the slopes, channels the feel of a grand lakeside Arts & Crafts lodge. For a rustic–chic vibe, the cabins at Blue Moon Rising boast reclaimed materials and stylish, eco-friendly touches.
You’ll have plenty of choices for dining. Start with breakfast or a hearty lunch at Casselman Cafe and Bakery, where locals fuel up on fresh-baked breads and pies. After a day outside, Pine Lodge Steakhouse serves up generous cuts in a log-cabin setting, while Dutch’s at Silver Tree leans a bit more upscale, with fresh seafood and an extensive wine list. MoonShadow in McHenry serves locally sourced plates with a creative twist. And don’t miss Mountain State Brewing, where wood-fired flatbreads pair perfectly with craft beers.
Culture and nightlife thrive here, too. South, toward Oakland, the Simon Pearce glassblowing workshop and factory store showcase artisans at work turning molten glass into delicate, gleaming pieces—a mesmerizing winter diversion. A side trip into Oakland reveals historic architecture, antique shops, and a slower rhythm that balances the lake’s resort buzz. Check out the Oakland B&O Railroad Museum for a window into the region’s railroading past. At the picturesque Little Crossings community of Grantsville, to the north, Spruce Forest Artisan Village lets you wander among working studios where potters, woodcarvers, and other craftspeople carry on timeless traditions. Back at the lake, Honi-Honi Bar, even in the dead of winter, is known for live bands, a welcoming crowd, and a lakeside view that doesn’t stop just because it’s cold out.
Beyond skiing and sledding, Deep Creek in winter offers music, craft, and mountain air. You’ll come away from your visit with stories you’ll want to tell.
Deep Creek, Deep Snow
Winter at Deep Creek Lake is a snow-lover’s dream, especially when you head over to Wisp Resort, Maryland’s only alpine destination. With a top elevation of 3,115 feet, 33 slopes spread across more than 137 acres, and ’round-the-clock snowmaking, the runs cater to everyone—from first-time skiers to black-diamond daredevils. When night falls, the trails light up, turning the mountain into a shimmering playground for evening skiing and snowboarding.
Thrill seekers can head over to Wisp’s snow tubing park, which boasts a dozen 750-foot lanes. Magic Carpets zip you back to the top—no trudging required. For freestyle fans? The terrain park is kept meticulously groomed and hosts rail jams, competitions, and crowd-pleasing events all season long.
More relaxed snowy fun is on offer at Herrington Manor State Park, where trails and a hill are maintained for cross-country skiing and sledding—equipment rental is available. Or strap some snowshoes on and head into Swallow Falls State Park. The frozen waterfalls and snow-blanketed trails there create a serene, photographic landscape. With around 10 miles of trails framed by icy cascades and hemlock forests, it’s a peaceful alternative to the high-energy slopes.
Reel Cool
When Deep Creek Lake freezes over, the ice anglers come out to play. Beneath the ice swim yellow perch, bluegill, walleye, and the occasional northern pike—all ready for the taking. You’ll need a sturdy auger to cut clean holes, a jigging rod for a single line or tip-ups for multiple lines, and a bucket seat that doubles as storage. Don’t forget ice cleats and a full thermos. Wait for at least four inches of solid, clear ice before venturing out. Tight lines!
READ MORE STORIES FROM OUR WINTER 2025 ISSUE
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