Nestled in the mountains of West Virginia just over the Maryland border is a hidden little slice of heaven: Alpine Lake Resort, in Terra Alta, WV (http://www.alpinielakeresort.com). This resort that is about a 30 minute drive from the better-known Deep Creek Lake of Garrett County, MD exists at an elevation of 2800 feet and is made up of 2300 wooded acres. It features the 148 acre Alpine Lake, fed by springs and mountain streams, and an award-winning 18-hole golf course.
Alpine Lake has become a popular site for a second/vacation home. Some retirees live at Alpine Lake year-round. Lots are still available for sale, as are many homes. Although over 480 homes have been built on the resort, and more are in the works, the West Virginia Department of Commerce gave Alpine Lake Resort an Award of Excellence for the way progress has been planned, so as not to disturb the natural resources and beauty of the area. Indeed, Alpine Lake is like a natural wildlife preserve. As you drive up and down the mountainous roads of the resort, it isn’t uncommon to see deer feeding along the side of the road, turkeys, possums, chipmunks, and even the occasional bear!
In addition to golfing, there is much more to do at Alpine Lake. Sailing with non-motorized boats is allowed, as is fishing, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. Hiking is popular within the resort. You can also enjoy the beach, tennis courts, miniature golf course, restaurant, bar, exercise room, basketball courts, and more.
Visitors to Alpine Lake have a choice of accommodations. They may stay in the 35-room motel (1-800-752-7179) which costs from $70 per night in season, and as low as $50 per night off season. Or, if they are staying at least 2 nights, visitors may rent one of the 33 private homes available from Clutter Realty (304-789-6933) (www.clutterrealty.com) . These range in price from $90 per night for a 2-bedroom cabin to $300 per night for a 6 bedroom house on the lake.
If one wants to drive off the resort, there are many things to do and places to eat in the local area. Hovatter’s Wildlife Zoo (http://www.westvirginiazoo.com), located about 20 minutes from Alpine Lake in Kingwood, WV, (304-329-3122), features a variety of native and exotic animals including tigers, monkeys, and bears, for a reasonable entrance fee. The nearby small town of Terra Alta, WV has a population of just 1500, but also boasts a Subway (304-789-2808)and Fox’s Pizza Den(304-789-5550) (which share the same building at 1206 E. State Ave). If you prefer a sit-down meal, you can drive to Englander’s Fountain Grill (301-533-0000) (http://www.oaklandmd.com/business/englanders.htm) on Alder St. in nearby Oakland, MD, which also features a nice antiques /collectibles shop. Another choice is the Long Branch Saloon (301-334-4533) (http://www.garrettchamber.com/attraction.php?attraction=152) at 1501 Maryland Hwy in Mt. Lake Park, MD, about 15 minutes from Alpine Lake. Or you can drive half an hour Deep Creek Lake to partake of the many shops and restaurants offered there.
