There’s no denying the healing powers of nature. With easy access to incredible outdoor adventures, wholesome foods, and wellness experiences, Mountain Maryland offers countless ways to nurture your mind, body, and soul.
Photo Credit: Nathaniel Peck Photography
UNWIND OR EXPLORE
Whether you long to soak in the sun or feel your muscles moving, you’ll find plenty of room to relax and play. Allegany County is home to close to 70,000 acres of public land. Come and see for yourself that when you’re here, you’re never far from a scenic trail, impressive overlook, or peaceful body of water. Dig your toes into the sand by sparkling Lake Habeeb and watch paddleboarders and kayakers float by. Pull on sneakers or hop on a bike and see how far you can get on the Great Allegheny Passage or C&O Canal Towpath, two internationally recognized trails that connect to form 333.5 miles of contiguous car-free trail. Dip an oar, ride a tube, or cast a line in the Potomac River, which forms the entire southern border of Allegany County. Pitch a tent at one of the 100 primitive campsites at Green Ridge State Forest. Book an excursion with Tracks and Yaks and be one of the first of your friends to try rail biking, an unexpected and memorable way to encourage family exercise and connect with nature.
FRESH AND FILLING FOODS
If you’re craving foods that will fuel hours of exploration, you’ve come to the right place. Centre Street Collective, a modern and eclectic eatery in Cumberland, is a must-stop for anyone who appreciates good food. Diners with dietary restrictions or preferences will find plenty of tasty options. Enjoy locally sourced, internationally inspired dishes such as a Banh Mi Power Bowl and build-your-own ramen. Get your vitamin C at The Pursuit Juice & Smoothie Bar in Frostburg, which also serves gourmet toasts and overnight oats. All of their smoothies are vegan and dairy-free and include no added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Another Frostburg spot for health-conscious foodies, Wholesome Harvest Co-op offers local, organic, and bulk food groceries as well as weekly menu items. Fill a tote with nutritious drinks and snacks to satisfy you during your Mountain Maryland stay. Farmers markets are a wonderful way to get a feel for local culture (and support the local economy). Allegany County is home to five farmers markets open on various days of the week from May through October as well as a winter market that takes place in Frostburg on select Saturdays through the winter season.
MOVEMENTS AND MEDITATION
Mountain Maryland is a serene destination for anyone seeking to find—or rediscover—their center. Engage in an ancient mindfulness practice as you slowly walk through the Labyrinth at Allegany College of Maryland in Cumberland. The 8-circuit, medieval-style labyrinth is set apart from the hustle and bustle of the college and offers a quiet place of reflection and meditation. Drop in a yoga class at one of the many studios throughout Allegany County, including SB Yoga, which offers classes for all ages and abilities. Visit the C. William Gilchrist Museum of the Arts in Cumberland for monthly wellness experiences in an inspiring artistic setting, including Community Yoga and Sound Meditation and Yoga Qigong fusion. Join a free group hike or bike ride or book a guided tour with Wheelzup Adventures, an inclusive outdoor retailer whose founders are on a mission to facilitate “access to the outdoors where recreation, self-discovery, spiritual renewal, and mental healing occurs.”