With its pristine slopes, state-of-the-art facilities, and breathtaking views of Deep Creek Lake, Wisp stands as a haven for both seasoned skiers and those eager to experience the thrill of carving through fresh powder. Explore the exhilarating world of skiing at Wisp Resort, where each run down the slopes is a journey into the heart of Maryland’s winter wonderland. Welcome to a realm where alpine excitement meets the scenic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Resort Rundown
- Opening Day – Mid-December
- Number of Runs – 34
- Trail Classifications – East Ridge Trails include 1 “more difficult” trail and 5 “most difficult” trails. North Camp Trails include 5 “easy” trails, 3 “more difficult” trails, and 1 “most difficult” trail.
- Skiable Acres – 132
- Base/Summit Elevation – 2,415 ft/3,115 ft
- The number of lifts – 12 chairlifts (2 quad, 5 triple, 4 conveyor, 1 surface)
- Pass Prices – From $299 (Military early pass purchase) to $1,799 (Platinum)
Driving distance to nearest major cities:
- Pittsburgh, Pa. – 2 hrs
- Charleston, W. Va. – 3 hrs
- Washington DC – 3 ½ hrs
- Richmond, Va. – 4 hrs
- Cleveland, Ohio – 4 hrs
- Columbus, Ohio – 4 hrs
- Philadelphia, Pa. – 5 hrs
What are the best apres ski activities at the resort and in the area?
After shredding the slopes, head over to DC’s Bar & Restaurant, which offers a full bar and dining on the upper level of the McHenry Lodge. Order your meal, then quench your thirst with a vast selection of craft brews, specialty cocktails, and more. Wisp Mountain Park Café is THE spot to refuel and relax after your mountain adventures. A warm cup of cocoa and a tasty treat will tide you over for the next few tubing runs!
McHenry, Maryland, just five minutes from the slopes, also offers a variety of entertainment venues, dining establishments, and breweries to relax after a day in the snow.
Best Place for Lessons and Gear Rentals?
No matter your skill level, you can level up at Wisp on the slopes. Check out how our experts can help you improve with private, group, and kid lessons. There are even “Learn to Ski/Snowboard” packages available, which include a lift Ticket, sport rental, and group lesson (Ages 6 & up).
As the Pros say, equipment does make a difference in performance. Wisp offers top-notch rental equipment by Rossignol so you can have the best experience on snow. Investing in skis or a snowboard requires regular maintenance to prolong the life of your equipment. The Tuning Center at Wisp is essentially a spa for your gear!
What are your best runs?
For beginners, and those looking for a taste of something a little more intermediate, Wisp Trail is an excellent green trail to try. Due to the many blue trails that feed into it, it is a great place to build up to a higher difficulty run. Little Dipper and Big Dipper are also great options for beginners, as these greens offer scenic views and a quieter location on the back side of the mountain. For the slightly more advanced, Squirrel Cage is an excellent option to try a black diamond, with slightly steeper terrain and night skiing opportunities!
Do you have family friendly activities?
The Mountain Coaster at Wisp Resort is a gravitational hybrid of an Alpine Slide and a Roller Coaster boasting a 1,300-foot uphill track while twisting, turning, dipping and rolling for 3,500 feet downhill over 350 vertical feet on the eastern side of Wisp Mountain. Guests ride in ‘coaster carts,’ and regulate their own speed with a set of handbrakes on the side of each cart. A centrifugal braking system restricts the coaster cart’s downhill speed at approximately 28 mph.
Folks of all ages can also enjoy tubing and two choices of escape games in the lower level of the McHenry Lodge.
As a 4-season resort, Wisp Resort hosts a variety of events to enhance all of our other offerings and highlight the wonderful seasons throughout the year. Winter events are great for the whole family and include hot cocoa bars, elves workshops, holiday contests, rail jam competitions, and a New Years Eve party! Be sure to check the events page on the Wisp website for more information.
Best places to stay in the area?
Located at the base of Wisp Resort and connected to the McHenry Lodge, The Lodge at Wisp offers six different room types amongst the 169 guest rooms to accommodate guests and groups of all sizes during four fabulous seasons in Deep Creek Lake. A vast array of amenities, activities, shopping and dining, make The Lodge at Wisp a convenient, comfortable, adventurous and functional choice.
