Winter Reveals the Hidden Beauty of This Maryland Forest

Wintertime was practically made for those of us who crave quiet. Little compares to the silence that accompanies a fresh snowfall in the middle of the night before the world awakes, but we can still find some of that tranquility if we’re willing to bundle up on a cold day and journey to this enchanting winter destination in Maryland. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing stroll on a snowy path or an epic adrenaline rush on a snowmobile, you’ll find plenty to do in this tranquil state forest.

Spanning more than 55,000 acres in Western Maryland, Savage River State Forest in Grantsville makes it relatively easy to find quiet no matter what time of the year you visit. But winter takes on an entirely different, magical aura as snow sparkles in the sunlight, animal prints decorate the snowy trails, and fewer people are around. Exploring is easy, too, once you decide how you want to get to know the forest that’s perhaps best known as the home of the Savage River Dam, the site of the 1964 B-54 crash and memorial, and the host of the 1989 World Whitewater Championships.

More than a dozen trails meander through the forest. If you’re up for an adrenaline rush, opt for snowmobiling, one of the most popular winter activities at Savage River State Forest. When the snow measures six inches or more, snowmobiling is allowed on the Meadow Mountain Trail, Margraff Plantation Roads, and Bowman Hill North Trails. However, you must first purchase an annual snowmobiling permit for a nominal fee.

If you prefer a quieter experience, go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Nine miles of trails are available for both winter activities. Put the address for the Savage River Lodge into your GPS and, from there, pick up the trailheads.

The trails, which range in difficulty from easy to moderate, are most popular with hikers and promise an intimate view of the forest’s natural beauty.  If you’re game for a moderate challenge, bundle up for a journey along the 2.2-mile out-and-back High Rock Trail, which leads to spectacular views of the surrounding forest from a rock overlook. Like the state forest, the trail is (leashed) dog-friendly and boasts such scenery as tranquil streams, unique rock formations, and gentle waterfalls.

Find more information, including amenities and maps, on Savage River State Forest on the official website of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Forest Service.

After you’ve thoroughly explored Savage River State Forest, you probably have a hearty appetite. Dig into a scrumptious meal at Penn Alps Restaurant, a cozy restaurant in Grantsville, Maryland, that features an all-you-can-eat buffet every Friday through Sunday.

What is your favorite winter destination in Maryland? Fill out a nomination form, and let us know. Or discover one of our favorite Maryland vacation spots using our new Travel Planner!