Wisp, McHenry

Wisp, the Western Maryland resort in Garrett County, is an easy-going less than three-hour drive from Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Annapolis, and points between. Wisp has a long season, averaging 140 days (that's long for the mid-Atlantic), usually running from before Thanksgiving into late March. One good reason for the longevity is what amounts to one of the biggest and most efficient airless snowmaking systems in the region. The skiing and riding is spread over 100 skiable acres on a comfortable 610 foot vertical, with the biggest batch of runs designated blue for intermediates. Novice skiers and riders quickly fall in love with Possum, a trail that stretches from the top of three chairs for 1.5 miles, covering more than 10 acres. Snow tubers can enjoy the nine-chute Bear Claw Snow Tubing Park with its own rope tows to the top of the hill. Two new triple chairs replaced the last of the doubles and extended both to the top of the mountain. A ski carpet services the beginners area.ActivitiesSnowboarding: Snowboarding is allowed on all slopes and trails. as well as the two terrain parks and a super pipe. Full service, sales, repair, and rentals are available.Cross Country Profile: Not available on-site, but 100 kilometers of cross country skiing is offered within 15 miles at four state parks.LodgingIn addition to a base hotel with 170 rooms, there are accommodations for more than 9,000 people ranging from motels to slopeside condominiums and home rentals in the area.Winter RecreationSnow tubing park with nine lanes and rope tow, snowbiking, a multitude of restaurants, lodging, entertainment from six cinemas, and live music in area night spots. Four nearby state parks offer winter camping and cross country skiing.