New Germany News: Early February Programs

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Webpage

Image of snowy lake
Full moon

February 3: Full Moon Hike
6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Lake House (weather permitting) 

Embrace the beauty of the forest under a full moon on this 1-mile hike with Ranger Noah. This will be the second full moon of winter, known as the "Snow Moon." Please bring a flashlight or headlamp.


Friends Logo

February 4: Friends of New Germany Volunteer Meeting 
9 a.m. at the Lake House 

Anyone interested in volunteering or becoming a member of the Friends of New Germany State Park is encouraged to attend this quarterly meeting.

For more information, please email or visit the Friends on Facebook.


Photo by Jim Gronaw

February 4: Introduction to Ice Safety and Ice Fishing
3-4 p.m. at the Lake House (weather permitting)

Join Ranger Brian for this free beginner's program exploring the basic gear and safety considerations needed for a safe ice fishing adventure. If conditions allow, a demonstration will be conducted on New Germany Lake. If you have any of your own ice fishing gear, please feel free to bring that to try your hand at ice fishing. Photo by Jim Gronaw.


Snowshoes

February 5: Introduction to Snowshoeing
4-6 p.m. at the Lake House (weather permitting)

Join Ranger Julia for this free introduction to the sport of snowshoeing. Learn about the history, equipment, beginner's skills, and joy of experiencing winter in deep snow. After the indoor presentation, if conditions allow, skills will be practiced on a guided hike of the Orchard Loop, by the light of the full moon! Rental fees will be waived, but equipment is limited. To reserve snowshoes for the program, email julia.musselwhite@maryland.gov. All ages are welcome.


hiking

February 7: Take A Hike Tuesday 
10 a.m. - noon at the Lake House (weather permitting) 

Join volunteers from the Friends of New Germany State Park on this challenging 4-mile hike and experience the revitalizing effects of outdoor exercise.

Please note that this hike may be changed to a shorter route to protect ski tracks if trails are snow covered.


Winter Wildflowers

February 16: Wildflowers in Winter
1-2 p.m. at the Native Plant Garden by the Lake (weather permitting)

Despite the snow and ice there’s still much to discover about our native plants. So bring some hot chocolate and bundle-up for this outdoor class led by volunteers from the Friends of New Germany State Park. Photo by Liz McDowell.


Snowshoes

NEW! Ranger-led Snowshoe Experiences
Weekdays in February

New Germany State Park is now scheduling private, custom, ranger-led snowshoe experiences. Couples, families, youth groups, and others are invited to learn about the sport, practice new skills, and explore the park with an experienced park ranger. Each lesson and guided hike will take into account the guests' unique needs and abilities. Private snowshoe experiences must be scheduled in advance and are subject to ranger availability and snow conditions. Snowshoe rental rates apply. Email julia.musselwhite@maryland.gov for more information or to book an experience. Photo by Caroline Blizzard.


Unless otherwise noted, events are held rain or shine, free and fun for all ages; donations are always welcome. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.

Dress for the weather/activity, wear sunscreen and insect repellent, bring plenty of water and snacks, and check for ticks.

Please call 301-895-5453 for additional information or to register.

New Germany staff also manages Big Run, Casselman River Bridge, and Dans Mountain state parks.


Image of Project Bumblebee and Butterfly icon

Donate to Maryland's State Parks! Your donation will support butterfly and bumblebee habitat and education in state parks. 

Donations in any amount are a helpful way to make a difference. Thank you!


Three photos of people enjoying parks year round

Annual Pass Available for Purchase
$75 for Marylanders; $100 for out-of-state visitors

Our annual State Parks and Trails Passport grants unlimited day-use admission and boat launching at state parks, and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals. 

To enhance convenience and value, this year's pass will arrive in a self-contained packet with a detachable hang-tag, and will be valid for a full year from the month of purchase. 

Our network of 75 state parks include more than 900 miles of trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding, as well as unique water access and camping facilities.

Home    News    Licenses    Magazine    Photo Contest    Reservations    Store