While the slopes of Wisp Resort are one of the main draws to our area during the winter months, there’s so much to do that’s not skiing or snowboarding! We rounded up some fun things to do during the winter months other than skiing!
Tubing
Snow tubing is fun for the whole family – seriously. Tubing takes little to no athletic ability (for those of us too uncoordinated to ski!) and Wisp Resort’s tubing park features two magic carpets to carry you to the top and groomed tubing lanes! Hook up your tube to other people in your group for a faster ride or race each other down the lanes.
Ice Skating
Glide across the ice and channel your inner ice hockey or figure skater! Wisp Resort features a temperature controlled and groomed outdoor rink that is perfect for all skill levels and open 7 days a week during the winter months. For the first time in recent memory, there have also been several sightings of skating and ice hockey on the frozen lake itself, too!
Sledding
Sledding is probably the most nostalgic winter activity – and it requires nothing but snow and a sled. We currently have about 1.5 feet of ground cover, so there’s still plenty of snow! If your rental doesn’t have a great hill or yard and you’re up for a little adventure, Blackwater Falls offers a sledding park with a lift to the top, and it’s only about a 45 minute drive from the lake. Thomas and Davis, WV are neat little towns and it’s a great way to spend an afternoon if you’re looking to get out of the house.
Hiking
We know what you’re thinking – no way! It’s freezing out there!! And while the temps don’t seem like perfect hiking weather, our landscape is so incredibly beautiful in the winter. Swallow Falls State Park takes on an entirely new definition of natural beauty when Muddy Creek Falls starts to freeze. It’s a good way to get out of the house for a few hours without it being too physically demanding or extreme.
Cross-Country Skiing
Okay – so this is still technically skiing – but so much different than downhill skiing! Runners, hikers, and even downhill skiers all love the physical challenge of cross-country skiing. Several of our local state parks offer trails (some groomed!) and rentals. Check out Herrington Manor and New Germany State Parks for trails conditions and more info! After a few tries, you’ll get the hang of the motion and be gliding across the snow in no time. Wisp Resort also offers cross-country skiing and snow-shoeing!
Inside Activities
If you’re just not up for the winter elements, there’s still plenty of fun, warm, inside things to do in the Deep Creek Lake area. Everything from laser tag at Deep Creek Fun Zone, movies at Garrett 8 Cinemas, arcade games at Funland, or bowling at The Alley, you’ll have no trouble finding some places to stay inside and still have fun.