McHenry, Maryland, is a small city located in the western region of Maryland in Garrett County. The town is situated along the north shore of Deep Creek Lake, which is the region's predominant location for summer activities like fishing, hiking, canoeing and kayaking. In the winter, the Lake offers activities like snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. On the edge of McHenry is a ski resort that also offers snowmobiling trails and guided snowmobile tours for beginners.
The Wisp Resort is situated in the mountains of western Maryland and has more than 130 acres of ski and snow-sport terrain. The resort offers 30-minute guided snowmobile tours on groomed and backcountry trails in the Fantasy Valley area. The cost is $59 for an adult and $15 for a child. This tour is a good option for first-time snowmobile riders who want an introduction to the sport and help learning the basics of how to operate, properly control and enjoy riding a snowmobile. Drivers must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver's license.
Located in Maryland's western Allegheny Highlands, Deep Creek Lake State Park offers miles of shoreline on Maryland's largest freshwater lake. During winter months, the park offers abundant opportunity for snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Red-tailed hawks and other birds like warblers, songbirds and owls can be spotted throughout the park. Six trails run throughout the park, including the Meadow Mountain Trail, which is adequate for snowmobiling in the winter months. At 5 1/2 miles in length, the Meadow Mountain Trail is rated moderate in skill level and includes limited views of the lake as well as the opportunity to spot birds and other wildlife like deer.
Near Deep Creek Lake State Park, the Railey Mountain Lake vacations offers access to more than 35 miles of snowmobile trails in the Deep Creek area. These trails are all located within state park forests. If you don't own your own snowmobile and need access to one, various vendors such as Bill's Marine Service and Deep Creek Marina offer snowmobile rentals that you can take out on the Deep Creek area's snowmobile trails, primarily during the months of January and February. These vendors also sell snowmobiles for purchase.
