Get away this holiday season to Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland. With more than 60,000 acres of public lands, enjoy the outdoors, even in the winter.
Head to Rocky Gap State Park for a day of hiking the snow-covered trails and searching for the best sledding hills. When it gets cold enough, Lake Habeeb is the perfect place to get in some ice fishing.
Grab your cross-county skis and snowshoes, or rent a pair from a local outfitter, to enjoy the Great Allegheny Passage in the snow. Advanced winter campers and hikers will enjoy the more than 50 miles of trails at Green Ridge State Forest, the largest contiguous forest in Maryland.
Warm up after a day in the cold at one of several lodging options in the area, from boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts to a lakeside resort and casino.
While you’re in Allegany County, don’t miss out on these celebrations leading up to the new year:
Grab your tickets and board The Polar Express™ on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. The whole family will get into the holiday spirit on your trip to the North Pole as you enjoy the hot chocolate, cookies, and music from the movie. The train runs Fridays-Sundays from November 23 through December 22, plus Monday, December 23. Reserve your tickets now before the rides sell out.
Hit the town on Saturday, December 14 for several holiday celebrations. Head over to Lonaconing for their annual Coney Christmas Celebration, featuring kids activities, craft vendors, and more. Explore all of the retailers, cafes, restaurants, and galleries at Downtown Cumberland’s Hometown Holiday. Shop for your loved ones as you enjoy live music and holiday treats.
This season also features several opportunities to dine with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves. Sit down for a breakfast of eggs, home fries, and juice on December 14 at Mezzos. On December 21, head to the Queen City Creamery for a breakfast complete with banana bread, cinnamon swirl pancakes, and adult mimosas.
End the year with the New Year’s Eve celebration in Downtown Cumberland. Toast the memories you made and the year to come with a DJ, ball drop, and fireworks. Start 2020 with a hike at Rocky Gap State Park’s New Year’s Goals in The Gap on New Year’s Day. This 2.15-mile long hike covers nearly 500 feet of elevation gain across a mountain trout stream and through rhododendron and hemlock forest to a lakeside overlook. Don’t forget to dress for the weather.
Take full advantage of all that the mountains of Maryland have to offer with a winter trip to Allegany County.
Maryland. Be Open For It.
