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Furs, Feathers, and Skulls!
December 27
10-11:30 a.m. at the Lake House
Drop by the Lake House for this hands-on program, where Ranger Noah will display a collection of furs, feathers, and skulls. Test your knowledge of local birds and mammals and learn about the unique traits that set these animals apart. This program is a "come and go" style display, so visitors are welcome to stop by at any point during the program window.
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First Day Hikes
January 1
11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Lake House (weather dependent)
At 11 a.m., join Ranger Julia on a 1-mile, easy, scenic route along the Gazebo Loop and Turnpike Trails, past a historic gazebo, lush hemlocks and serene Poplar Lick Run. This hike is designed for folks with young children, pets, and those new to hiking who hope to ease into more nature, wellness and outdoor recreation in 2026.
At 2 p.m., join Ranger Noah on a moderate-to-difficult 4.5-mile hike on the Turnpike and Dynamite Shack trails.
After each hike, warm up with some hot cocoa by the fire and receive your official “I hiked!” sticker!
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Full Moon Hike
January 4
7 p.m. at the Lake House (weather dependent)
Embrace the beauty of the forest under a full moon on this 1-mile hike with Ranger Noah. This "Wolf Moon" will be the first full moon of winter. Please bring a flashlight or headlamp. Photo credit: Hannah Muir.
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Take-a-Hike Tuesday
January 6
10 a.m. at the Lake House (weather dependent)
Join Ranger Noah on this challenging 4-mile hike and experience the revitalizing effects of outdoor exercise.
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Make and Take Bird Feeders
January 10
Noon - 1 p.m. at the Lake House
Stop by the Nature Center to learn how to make your own bird feeders and suet cakes out of natural materials. This is a come and go style program, so feel free to stop by anytime during the one hour program window.
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Skiing by Candlelight
January 17
5-8 p.m. at the Lake House (weather dependent)
Enjoy this unique opportunity to ski at night, where the Turnpike Trail will be illuminated by luminaries! The luminaries will be on from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. If snow conditions are not suitable for skiing, the luminaries will still be lit for any adventurous hikers out for a night hike. Make sure to stop by the Lake House for complimentary s’mores and hot cocoa! Photo Credit: Luke Mongrain
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Snowshoe Class
January 18
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at the Lake House (weather dependent)
During this 1.5-hour class, participants will learn the basics of snowshoeing before venturing into the snowy forest with Ranger Julia. The class will conclude with hot chocolate around the fire at the Lake House. The cost is $60 per person with snowshoe rentals or $20 per person if using personal equipment. Minimum class size is 2 people. Maximum class size is 10. Registration is required by emailing julia.musselwhite@maryland.gov by January 16. This class is dependant on adequate snow cover.
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Furs, Feathers, and Skulls!
January 18
Drop by the Lake House for this hands-on program, where Ranger Noah will be displaying a collection of furs, feathers, and skulls. Test your knowledge of local birds and mammals and learn about the unique traits that set these animals apart. This program is a "come and go" style display, so visitors are welcome to stop by at any point during the program window.
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Savage Highlands News Coming Soon!
The Maryland Park Service will soon have a new newsletter for its new state park! If you would like to receive emails about Savage Highlands State Park programs, special events, and status updates, please visit our website to subscribe to Savage Highlands News.
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Unless otherwise noted, events are held rain or shine, free and fun for all ages; donations are always welcome. Children 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.
New Germany staff also manages Big Run, Casselman River Bridge, and Dans Mountain state parks.
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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!
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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.
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