Things to see and do at Wisp, Maryland

Visited September 2025

Booking through these agencies from here will help support this site at no extra cost to you.

Save on tours & activities with Viator US Ghost Adventures and Haunted Pub Crawls

Wisp, Maryland: Adventure Awaits in the Mountains

Tucked away in the mountains of western Maryland, Wisp Resort is the state’s only four-season ski and recreation resort. Located near Deep Creek Lake in McHenry, Wisp is a destination that combines skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter with golf, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting in the warmer months. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or adventure-packed trip, Wisp, Maryland offers something for every traveler.

Why Visit Wisp Resort, MD?

Wisp is Maryland’s premier destination for mountain recreation. The resort first opened in 1955 and has since grown into a year-round playground, drawing visitors from across the Mid-Atlantic. Its location in Garrett County makes it easily accessible from Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., while its setting along Deep Creek Lake offers incredible scenery.

Winter at Wisp, Maryland

1. Skiing and Snowboarding

Wisp boasts over 30 trails for all skill levels, served by a modern lift system. Beginners can take lessons at the ski school, while advanced skiers and riders will enjoy challenging runs and terrain parks.

2. Snow Tubing and Ice Skating

Families love Wisp’s Bear Claw Snow Tubing Park, featuring multiple lanes of downhill fun. The resort also offers outdoor ice skating for a classic winter experience.

3. Cross-Country and Snowshoeing

For those who prefer a quieter adventure, Wisp provides trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, allowing visitors to explore the serene mountain landscape.

Summer and Fall Adventures

1. Mountain Coaster

Wisp’s Mountain Coaster is a must-try attraction, winding down the slopes on a twisting track that combines speed with beautiful mountain views.

2. Whitewater Rafting Course

The resort features a man-made whitewater rafting course, the only one of its kind in the region. It’s a thrilling summer activity for both beginners and experienced rafters.

3. Golf and Mountain Biking

In warmer months, visitors can tee off at Lodestone Golf Course, designed by Hale Irwin, or tackle Wisp’s network of mountain biking trails.

4. Hiking and Scenic Chairlift Rides

Scenic chairlift rides provide stunning views of Deep Creek Lake and the surrounding mountains. Hiking trails offer a slower-paced way to enjoy the resort’s natural beauty.

Visitor Information

Location: McHenry, Maryland, near Deep Creek Lake.
Best Time to Visit: Winter for skiing, summer and fall for outdoor recreation.
Lodging: On-site hotels, vacation rentals, and nearby cabins provide options for every budget.
Access: About three hours from Washington, D.C. and Baltimore; two hours from Pittsburgh.

Plan Your Trip to Wisp, Maryland

With its four-season activities, mountain scenery, and family-friendly atmosphere, Wisp Resort is one of Maryland’s premier travel destinations. From skiing and tubing in the winter to rafting, hiking, and golf in the summer, Wisp offers adventure all year long. Pair your trip with a visit to Deep Creek Lake for the perfect mountain getaway.

Thinking of visiting? Viator offers numerous tours in Maryland. Click here for details. vi.me/LeEvP

Inside Wisp Resort ski lodge

The ski slopes at the Wisp Resort

Snowboarding at the Wisp Resort

Snowmobile riding at the Wisp Resort