Deep Creek Lake kayaking opportunities are abundant! Garrett County is home to numerous lakes and rivers that are perfect for paddling. You can experience peaceful flatwater or raging rapids.
Deep Creek Lake Kayaking
When you arrive at Deep Creek Lake the popularity of kayaking will immediately strike you: it is possible to rent kayaks, schedule kayaking lessons and enjoy guided tours. Easy and affordable, it’s not hard to understand why kayaking was among the top five sports with the most first-time participants.
Flatwater Kayaking
Flatwater kayaking is ideal for family outings and there are seven lakes to choose from once you have your gear. High Mountain Sports and Wisp Outdoors both offer recreational kayak rentals that come complete with paddles, Personal Floatation Device (PFD) and a little instruction to get you started. As an added convenience, they also both offer a delivery and pick up service that makes everything that much easier. If you’re renting a home on the lake, a kayak is a great additional amenity to keep your group entertained. Herrington Manor, Broadford and New Germany lakes offer quieter areas where no major wakes from motorized crafts will rock your boat.
Known for its pristine scenery and abundant wildlife, the peaceful Savage Reservoir is just 20 minutes from Deep Creek and well worth the trip. You can head out on your own or travel All Earth Eco Tours. Their popular Savage Rez Eco Tour puts you in the hands of knowledgeable guides who lead you through a day on the water. A day long adventure, the trip includes paddling, hiking and a picnic lunch. Wildlife is spotted on almost every trip including: bald eagles, deer, loons, blue herons and red tailed hawks. The bald eagles have even been seen fishing and catching fish on the wing right in front of the trip!
The convenient location of High Mtn. Sports, just south of the Deep Creek bridge along Rt. 219, means it’s easy to kayak whenever the mood strikes. Your can stop by their shop and take out a single or double kayak for as long as you like or sign up for one of their guided lake tours.
Whitewater Kayaking
Home to the Potomac, Savage and Youghiogheny rivers, Garrett County is famous for its world class whitewater runs. The rivers range in difficulty from easy (Class I) to the most difficult (Class 5) and offer something for almost any ability level. The Youghiogheny is probably the most well known, especially to those with experience. When the water is high, there are twenty-three Class IV and V rapids to challenge expert kayakers. Whether you’re experienced or new to the kayaking game, Laurel Highland River Tours offers a variety of services and can help you learn everything from the basics of flatwater paddling to advanced rodeo boating. Their instructors are chosen for their ability to teach all ages and all skill levels. Novice, intermediate and advanced paddlers can increase their confidence and paddling abilities. The courses include all necessary equipment and, in most cases, lunch is provided as well.
The Adventure Sports Center International (ASCI) facility is located at the top of Marsh Mountain and utilizes state-of-the-art technology to create a course that closely resembles the look, feel and performance of a natural waterway. Built to Olympic standards, it spans 1,700 feet in length and water can be pumped up to 250,000 gallons per minute to create rapids ranging from Class II to IV. Even if you’re unsure about trying it out, it’s a must see when you visit the Deep Creek area. Walk the perimeter and you’ll be able to watch the brightly colored boats float by, which provides some great photo ops. The course is open throughout the day to private boaters and is designed to safely accommodate a range of boaters at once.
In Conclusion
When it comes to Deep Creek Lake kayaking, it doesn’t matter what speed you choose – mild, wild or somewhere in between – as long as you take advantage of a great opportunity to get out on the water, experience the natural beauty of Garrett County and make a few memories along the way.
