Attractions and Places To See around Garrett - Top 6

Garrett County offers extensive outdoor opportunities. You can explore trails for hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing at Deep Creek Lake State Park, or enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing. Swallow Falls State Park is excellent for hiking to impressive waterfalls like Muddy Creek Falls. For cycling, the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) provides a 150-mile multi-use trail through natural scenery. For more cycling routes, check out the Cycling around Garrett guide.

Yes, Garrett County has a rich history. You can visit the Oakland B&O Railroad Museum, housed in the original 1884 Oakland Train Station, to learn about the area's railroad history. The Garrett County Historical Society Museums in Oakland offer artifacts and photos detailing local history. The Meyersdale Visitors Center also includes a small museum on regional history. Don't miss the historic stone arch bridge at Casselman River Bridge State Park, a landmark on the National Road.

Many attractions cater to families. Deep Creek Lake State Park offers swimming, boating, and an aviary with birds of prey. Herrington Manor State Park has a 53-acre lake perfect for swimming and picnics. Wisp Resort provides year-round fun with a mountain coaster, zip lines, and skiing in winter. For a unique experience, Cove-Run Farms features Maryland's largest corn maze in autumn. The Meyersdale Visitors Center is also family-friendly with amenities and a model train room.

Garrett County is home to stunning natural landscapes. You can visit Hoye Crest, Maryland's highest point, located on Backbone Mountain. Swallow Falls State Park boasts some of Maryland's tallest free-falling waterfalls, including the 53-foot Muddy Creek Falls, and ancient hemlock trees. Deep Creek Lake is Maryland's largest freshwater lake, offering beautiful scenery and water activities. The nearly 20,000-acre Garrett State Forest is also a significant natural feature, known as the birthplace of forestry conservation in Maryland.

Garrett County offers diverse activities throughout the year. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking and cycling, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is perfect for water sports on Deep Creek Lake and swimming at state parks. Winter transforms the region into a snowy wonderland, with skiing and snowboarding at Wisp Resort, and snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at parks like Herrington Manor State Park.

Absolutely. The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is a premier cycling destination, a 150-mile multi-use trail that follows a former rail line. This trail is mostly crushed stone dust, suitable for touring bikes, and connects many historical locations. You can find several cycling routes, including loops from Rockwood and Meyersdale Visitors Center, in the Cycling around Garrett guide.

Yes, several spots offer amenities. The Meyersdale Visitors Center is an excellent place to stop for a break, offering bathrooms, water, and information on local eateries. The town of Rockwood, located along the GAP, has a café and supermarket. Oakland's Historic Downtown also features boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants. For a unique experience, consider visiting Deep Creek Cellars for local wines.

Garrett County is home to 8 state parks and 3 state forests, offering a wide range of activities. Key parks include Deep Creek Lake State Park, known for its lake activities and trails; Swallow Falls State Park, famous for its waterfalls; and Herrington Manor State Park, with a lake for swimming and winter sports. Garrett State Forest is also notable for its conservation history and extensive outdoor recreation opportunities.

In winter, Garrett County transforms into a prime destination for snow sports. Wisp Resort is Maryland's only ski resort, offering nearly 40 downhill trails, a tubing park, and terrain parks. Many state parks, such as Deep Creek Lake State Park and Herrington Manor State Park, provide opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even ice fishing on Deep Creek Lake.

The Spruce Forest Artisan Village in Grantsville is a fantastic place to experience local artisan crafts. This village features historic cabins that serve as studios for local artists, where you can observe them at work and learn about Allegheny regional life through historic reenactments. Additionally, Simon Pearce offers a unique opportunity to watch glassblowers create crystal-clear glass pieces.

Visitors highly appreciate the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) for its scenic beauty and historical significance. Many describe it as an amazing bike trip, noting the well-maintained crushed stone surface suitable for touring bikes. The trail covers numerous historical locations and offers expansive views, especially from engineering marvels like the Salisbury Viaduct, which provides 360-degree views of the forest below.

Yes, parking is generally available at the main attractions. For example, the Meyersdale Visitors Center offers convenient parking. State parks and major resorts like Wisp typically have designated parking areas for visitors. It's always a good idea to check specific attraction websites for detailed parking information, especially during peak seasons.

Beyond the well-known attractions, Garrett County holds some charming spots. The Victorian Houses in Mt. Lake Park offer a glimpse into the area's boom town days with many restored historic homes. The Friend Family Museum in Friendsville provides a unique look into local genealogy. For a different kind of experience, the ASCI Whitewater Course offers a unique mountaintop recirculating whitewater course for kayaking and rafting.