Bob Holcomb – Page 31 – Deep Creek Lake Blog

The Ohiopyle BikeTrail

Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor

The Ohiopyle BikeTrail

Normally I do not encourage folks to stray too far away from our utopian vacation heaven here at Deep Creek Lake because of the wealth of activities we have here. But, I have discovered a superb place just twenty-five minutes North of Garrett County in Pennsylvania that is a bike peddlers dream in the fall (or anytime for that matter). The ride is a great way to experience the legendary fall foliage that is not too far away from firing.Choose your starting point either at Confluence, PA or at Ohiopyle National Park, which are separated by eleven miles. The kicker is that the bike path between the towns runs parallel with the beautiful Youghiogheny River with gentle, consistent elevation changes, making for pleasant peddling. There is only a 2% grade running downstream from Confluence towards Ohiopyle that makes this 22 mile round trip perfect for those of us who don’t have the legs and lungs of Lance Armstrong. The trip allows many opportunities to stop and take in the relaxing peaceful calm that the Yough River is famous for. You will see many kayak and raft tours cruising down this easy flowing section of the river. Bring the family and a backpack with a nice lunch and a few ice cold Powerade’s and spend a special afternoon enjoying another chapter of God’s country.

I suggest if you do not bike a lot to begin by starting at Ohiopyle, which makes the first eleven miles 2% uphill all the way to Confluence, that way if you get too tired you can cruise with less effort on the slightly downhill run back to Ohiopyle. Expect rubbery legs the next day, and the urge to make biking a new part of your life. I know the summer season has ended, but take some time as fall approaches to step away from work, load up your bikes and bring the family to enjoy a memorable day just a stone’s throw from Deep Creek Lake.

The State of Wisp Resort, Deep Creek Lake, MD

The State of Wisp Resort, Deep Creek Lake, MD

The State of Wisp Resort, Deep Creek Lake, MD. I’d like to try to clarify the state of Wisp Resort and the surrounding real estate on the mountain. There have been rumors and sensationalism in some of the headlines and I would like to try to state the facts as I know them.

First of all, Wisp Resort, which is owned by Recreational Industries, owns the ski resort and Wisp’s public golf course. Wisp Resort itself is a healthy, vibrant, profitable business and is poised to begin snowmaking for the 2011/12 season in less than 90 days. The first scheduled date for ski area operations is Friday, November 25 and Wisp is about to complete a positive record-breaking summer operation. To get an idea of the degree of success, gross revenues at Wisp have risen from $9 million to $16 million over a 5-year period with profitability increased more than three-fold.

The Lodestone Golf Course and surrounding home sites were developed by Wisp Resort Development (WRD). The decline in the economy couldn’t have come at a worse time for the Lodestone golf course and the surrounding homesites, putting a strain on WRD’s ability to meet their new obligations. Just 20 of the 60 developed sites in Lodestone have been sold and the remaining 137 sites are still in the development stage. Having spent the last 24 years of my life building golf courses that support the surrounding real estate development, I can testify that typically these developments sold out in a very short time. The good news is that the Lodestone course has been ranked as #3 best play in Maryland and #7 best new course in the country; however, even with an extremely high quality golf course, the homesite market is still quite slow. WRD reports that it is attempting to work with BB&T in an attempt to restructure its loan; meanwhile, there will be no interruption in activities at Wisp Resort.

Since its founding in 1955, Wisp has made Maryland’s westernmost county a year-round tourist destination. Vacation homes, some worth millions, ring the 3,600-acre lake. The ski resort is the county’s sixth largest employer with a workforce that swells from 225 in the summer to 650 in the winter. I spoke to Karen Myers, who has ownership interest in both Wisp and Lodestone, who said with her familiar, optimistic smile, “We operate a successful, thriving recreation business at Wisp Resort and we will do everything in our power to turn around the real estate development side of the business as well. Of course, we cannot control the national economy but we can make sure that our Wisp and Lodestone communities have the very best amenities and are offered to consumers at reasonable and affordable prices. Being a 10th generation Garrett Countian, I feel certain that the tenacity that has been passed down through the generations will see us through this economic crisis as well.”

The State of Wisp Resort, Deep Creek Lake, MD

Garrett County Agricultural Fair-Deep Creek Lake

Garrett County Agricultural Fair Deep Creek Lake. Try to remember through child eyes the fantastic moments you experienced at the local summertime fair. I used to love the feeling of riding the “Round Up” spinning so fast that you could pick your feet off the ground as if you were flying. Then after getting off the ride simply trying to navigate walking for the next ten minutes while your head is spinning like a tornado. It can be as challenging as a tight rope walker.

There are all the rides that normally entice you to play like the scrambler, apple turn over, the star ship, and of course the ferris wheel. Cotton candy, funnel cakes, candy apples, fresh lemonade, beef brisket, hot dogs, local corn, and the famous rotary vinegar fries are just the start to Garret County fair cuisine. The familiar sights, sounds, and smells are nothing short of perfection to the senses at this All American small town fair.

There are truck pulls, tractor pulls, dirt bike exhibitions, and my favorite ‘”the crash up derby”. People from all over the county put together make-shift ram rods to see who can take the least amount of punishment and survive the longest. The leaking radiators leading to blow motors and back wheels being plowed into the car frame seem to be the master of demise in this grand event.

Remember that this is an Agricultural Fair. A popular event is when animals come through the auction gates. People pack the fair bleachers to bid on a large selection of farm animals ranging from Cows, Lambs, and Pigs. There is something special about the auctioneer taking control of the bidding and the electricity of the crowd competing for these beautiful fair animals. There is also the standard competition of trying to get the coveted blue ribbon for the best vegetable, photograph, painting, quilt or wood working piece.

After the fair, I went up to an special place overlooking the fair with the sun setting, the fair lights shining brilliantly, and the rumble of the crash-up derby all framed in by Wisp Resort in the background. What a great way to finish up the summer and the catalyst for the start of fall.

The Casselman Bridge

Garrett County History, Casselman Bridge

The Casselman Bridge. Did you know that GarrettCounty has one of the oldest surviving span bridges in the country? Just a short 15 minute drive from Deep Creek Lake and you can visit The Casselman River State Park. The Casselman River Bridge was originally built in 1813 as a part of the old National Road. At the time of its construction, this 80 foot stone arch bridge was the longest single-span bridge in theUnited States. The bridge remained in service until 1933, when a new steel bridge was built nearby. Today, the bridge is listed as a National Historic Landmark and serves as a scenic remnant of Maryland’s history. Be sure to check it out on your next visit.

Broadford Recreational Park-Garrett County

Garrett County Broadford Recreational Park

Broadford Recreational Park-Garrett County. Everyone has that childhood memory of going to the local park for a little family time, grilling hotdogs and hamburgers, fishing, and watching the youngsters play at the playground. On your next visit to Deep Creek Lake I would encourage you to take a spin with your family and friends to the Broadford Recreational Area/Lake. There is nothing more incredible than to see the look on a child’s face when he walks into the mega playground that Broadford is home to. Daddy’s and Mommy’s encouraging their children to conquer the high-rise slide and with a whoosh they come whisking down with a face glaring with fear and pure excitement. These are moments that you don’t get very long throughout your child’s life and are experiences that should be cherished.

Maybe you want to walk the shoreline and try your luck casting a beetle-spin in hopes of hammering a nice crappie. Fishermen and women should explore the vast possibilities by foot or boat at Broadford’s cozy little lake. There are picnic tables, grills, and pavilions all around this quiet chill lake that are in need of family and friends to occupy them and create life-long memories.

There’s volleyball, basketball, and baseball fields for the sports lovers. Bring the bikes and go for a relaxing spin around this laid back park. I had a very fun experience here lately with friends and family enjoying all thatBroadfordParkhas to offer and really hope you take the time to do the same!

Directions – From I 68 take Exit # 14 (US 219 South), take 219 S about 22 miles and turn left onto Kings Run Road; proceed on Kings Run Road about 2 miles to stop sign and turn right onto Broadford Road; proceed on Broadford Road about 2.5 miles to the intersection of Broadford and Dennet Roads, continue through the intersection and make an immediate left onto Pittsburgh Ave.; take Pittsburgh Ave. about 0.25 miles and the lake entrance is on the left.

www.DeepCreekLakeProperty.com

Springtime-Real Estate Deep Creek Lake

Make no mistake about it, I love all the seasons here at Deep Creek Lake, but spring has a way of grounding me to a calm center of balance and rejuvenating my spirit. For the first time in 2011, last night I left the screen door open in my bedroom and let the comfortable spring air ease me to a deep and wonderful sleep. This morning I awoke to the peaceful sounds of mountaintop birds who were also singing the praises of spring with a spectacular sunrise over a sheet of glass, calm lake. I can’t think of a better way to enjoy breakfast then sipping on a warm cup of Folgers medium dark coffee and eating a bowl of oatmeal overlooking the lake with an orchestra of soothing sounds around you. A nice quiet seven minute ride to work and I am in my office at Long & Foster ready to help buyers from all over to find their dream home in this ideal town. Feel free to give me a call if you have a question about activities, weather, or if you are in need of a passionate real estate professional who is excited and motivated to help you find your special home in this fantastic town. I’m excited about spring, I’m enthusiastic about the real estate market, and I am hopeful that you give me a call if you have any questions regarding Deep Creek Lake real estate.

Sunrise Service-Deep Creek Lake

Sunrise Service Deep Creek Lake. If you’re visiting Deep Creek this weekend and looking for a remarkable experience, take Chairlift #1 at 6:00 AM on Sunday to the top of Oden’s Chute on Easter Sunday morning 4/24/11. Here you will find a Sunrise Service officiated by Pastor Scott Robinson who does a wonderful job making this an enjoyable event for all. Last year, it could not have been any more dramatic…literally, as the Pastor Scott finished his sermon the sunrise exploded behind him across the vast mountain ranges of Garrett County. A sight to behold!

After the event you will be treated to a continental breakfast courtesy of Wisp Resort were you can meet new friends from in and out of town. No matter what religion you follow this is a great way to enjoy a special spring morning on the melting ski slopes of Wisp Resort. I hope to see you there.

River Kayaking the Youghiogheny River-Deep Creek Lake

River Kayaking the Youghiogheny River Deep Creek Lake

I was taking my weekly hike at Swallow Falls State Park this weekend trying to photograph the beautiful waterfalls when I stumbled upon a very exciting scene. I have always known that there is a put-in for kayaks by the bridge but never was there to see someone come through Swallow Falls. My experience with water sports revolves elusively around the ocean and the lake up to this point, so it really got my adrenaline flowing knowing these guys were going to bomb this violent waterfall on kayaks.

There were three guys paddling my way very casually without apprehension of the raging waters and dramatic elevation change ahead. The lead kayaker set his line for the center chute and paddled into its smooth channel at the top of the falls aggressive and calculated. His speed started racing with the bottleneck of the water flow as he was catapulted into the raging falls and for a moment was submerged by fierce white water. It wasn’t long before he accelerated out of the powerful rapids to the calm swirling pool below.

The other two guys came through with the same intensity as the first and they all casually glided down the Youghiogheny River until they vanished from my site. My love for Deep Creek Lake sports has already been long since established but now I have a fire burning in me to try my hand at river kayaking. I think it may be a wise decision for me to take baby steps far away from raging Swallow Falls!

Trail To Kendall-Garrett County History-Deep Creek Lake

Deep Creek Lake Garrett County History “Trail To Kendall”

Garrett County’s history is immense and vast. If you look hard enough you can find little nooks and crannies from the past that are very interesting to explore and visit. Sometimes no matter how hard you look all you will be left with are just memories of another time in American history. This weekend, I stumbled upon a hike along the Youghiogheny River, upriver from Friendsville, that leads to the once thriving old lumber town known as Kendall. My wife, Betsy, and I took our French Mastiff down the trail that starts on the Eastern Side of the Yough right under the I-68 highway bridge, the bridge that spans the river, and headed two miles to this mysterious extinct town.

Facts. In 1889, the Confluence and Oakland Railroad was extended upriver from Friendsville along the Youghiogheny River to start a new milling operation in Garrett County. Immediately, houses, a church, and a school were erected to become home to the many workers brought in by the sawmill operation. The first company to build a sawmill was Yough Manor Lumber Company and the town birthed its first name of Yough Manor. Next came in A. Knapp Company, which setup a stave mill in 1891. The town’s name was then changed to Krug after Henry Krug who was an A. Knapp Company official. Then during the early 20^th century the town took its 3^rd and final name of Kendall after the Kendall Lumber Company that operated there for a fair amount of time until the timber business diminished in the 1920’s. The McCullough Coal Mine Company was the last company to operate in the town. The Confluence and Oakland Railroad was removed in the 1940’s and the buildings and houses that were remaining completely disappeared. They say that all that remains now are a few house foundations and piles of saw dust. We would soon find out…

During our hike along the river, we had the beautiful spring thaw flowing down the river to our right and had numerous runoff branch streams screaming off the mountain to our left. Our dog, Mali, pounced down the bank of the river throughout our entire hike trying to catch some mysterious critters that we never did see surface! Her nose was buried in the dirt trying to locate a scent that may give her a clue as to where the mystery rodents were hiding. We walked for about 1-1/2 hours, and to be honest with you, never saw any remnants of the old town of Kendall, like old foundations or piles of sawdust. We did see a man-made “wall” of some sort along the way but really the star of the hike was… well…the hike! We kept an eagle eye out for the town of Kendall but had an excellent time exploring a unique and special area that even my 12^th generation Garrett County wife, Betsy, had never experienced before. If you are looking for a nice place to relax far away from the crowds, where you can walk through the footprints of our past down a rail line to significant Garrett County history then put the Trail to Kendall on your lists of things to experience.

Side fact. Did you know that Wisp Resorts ski in/ ski out community Kendall Camp was named after this mysterious old town?

Cardboard Box Derby-Deep Creek Lake

Cardboard Box Derby Long And Foster Deep Creek Lake

This year’s Cardboard Box Derby was a big hit again this year with smiles to be had by all the spectators and competitors. Excellent food, like Long & Foster’s own Doug McClive’s world famous “Dougy Dog’s”, barbecue, and cold beverages are in supply and scrumptious. Wisp Resort’s Tubing Park is transformed into a snow race track for vehicles made of cardboard and duct tape in this very popular annual event. There was an amazingly huge pirate ship, a mega pontoon boat, a giant space shuttle, a detailed fire truck, and back by popular demand…Long and Foster’s speed demon hotrod, “The Bobs Sled”. This super slick sled has taken second place for two years in a row with its sleek design and engineering by LNF’s manager, Bob Carney, and Sales Associate, Bob Holcomb, who put enough duct tape on this puppy to last decades! Even though it potentially has many more years of racing, we have decided to retire her after this year’s fast drag run. We are going to build a bigger and better sled for next year!

Long and Foster has a lot of agents who are active in the Lion’s Club who volunteer their time to help raise money for the Blind Skiers program by working concessions for the event. We also have a strong showing from our office to cheer on all the wonderful contestants that come in hopes for a victory in design and speed. Take my advice and start putting together your design on paper now and get construction underway as soon as possible so you can experience a super duper fun time here in Deep Creek Lake!

Author: Bob Holcomb