Recreation – Winter Activities
Cross-country skiers and snowshoers of all abilities can enjoy a winter wonderland across Savage River State Forest. There are approximately nine miles of cross-country ski trails located off I-68, Exit 29 and follow the signs for the Savage River Lodge. Snowshoeing is permitted; however, walk on the sides of the trails. There is no charge for use of these cross-country ski trails.
Snowmobiling is also available for winter enthusiasts when there is six inches or more of snow on the trails. The snowmobile must have a DNR ORV Sticker which can be obtained from the DNR COMPASS portal, the DNR Licensing Offices, or at a park/forest office. To obtain a $10 annual permit for your Snowmobile, please have a valid driver’s license, the VIN/Serial number of the snowmobile, and the make/model/year of the snowmobile available. The Savage River State Forest has the Meadow Mountain Trail, Margraff Plantation Roads, and Bowman Hill North Trails available for snowmobile riding. The maps of these areas are available by calling the forest headquarters at 301-895-5759.
Snowmobile Trails
Meadow Mountain Trail: Access to trail system is Exit 22 off I-68. Make a left on to Ellis Drive. Go approximately one half mile to a Parking Area to unload your snowmobile. This trail is approximately 11 miles long. It incorporates the East Shale Road, and crosses over the New Germany Road to the next portion of the trail and ends at the Frank Brenneman Road. This is not a loop trail.
Margraff Plantation Roads: This Trail is located off I-68, Exit 219 South towards Oakland, Maryland. In Accident, turn on to Accident-Bittinger Road and then on to Fratz Road. This is a loop trail. There are several miles of trail to ride.
Bowman Hill North Trails: This trail is located off I-68, Exit 19. Travel South on Rt. 495 approximately 5 and ½ miles. Turn left on to Dung Hill Road. Dung Hill Road becomes Bowman Hill Road. Travel ¾ mile. There is a Parking Area on the right hand side of the road. This is a loop trail system.
