ABOUT THE AREA ...

Garrett County, the westernmost county in the state, was the last part of Maryland to be settled. The first settlers arrived in 1764, and were mostly English, German and Irish settlers from Pennsylvania. In 1872, the county was founded and named for B&O Railroad president John Work Garrett because of the importance of the railroad in county history.

This frontier region is where you'll find Backbone Mountain, the highest mountain in the state, which is 3,360 feet tall. Near the town of McHenry is Deep Creek Lake, the state's largest manmade lake, and Wisp, a popular ski resort. All over the county, there are state parks and forests with beautiful foliage, waterfalls and lakes for travelers to explore.

Nature isn't the only thing found in Garrett County. Oakland, the county seat, was once a resort area and a retreat for many famous Americans, including Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone and William Jennings Bryant. Also in Oakland are the old B&O Railroad Station and the Garrett County Historical Museum.

 

DEEP CREEK LAKE

Deep Creek Lake in the mountains of Western Maryland offers recreation and relaxation throughout the year. Whether you prefer excitement and thrilling activities or just the enjoyment of the abundant natural beauty of the lake, you will find it here in Garrett County.

The summer months are filled with boating, water skiing, fishing, and swimming on Maryland's largest freshwater lake. Whitewater rafting, canoeing, and kayaking are available on the Savage and Youghiogheny Rivers. If hiking and picnicking are your choice, you can choose from five state parks including Swallow Falls State Park with its natural trails and Muddy Creek Falls which is Maryland's largest waterfall. Winter activities include downhill skiing at Wisp Ski Slopes, cross country skiing, dog sledding, sleigh rides, ice fishing, tubing, and snowmobiling. Other activities to keep you entertained include hunting, miniature golf, two 18 hole championship golf courses and numerous fine gift shops and restaurants.