Frostburg, Maryland

Inns, Lodges, Resorts

September 2023

Article and Photos by Polly Dean

While visiting northwest Maryland to fish the Savage River or other nearby streams, a good option for accommodations is the Allegheny Trail House in the town of Frostburg. The accommodations are located on Main Street in this quaint, bustling town, but the activity was not loud or obtrusive.

We found village’s first and only farm-to-table bed and breakfast to be a great choice. After a day of fishing, we could settle in each evening on the historic home’s front porch to enjoy a beverage as we planned our next day. During our visit we were treated to a view of the full moon as it rose each evening.

Though it suited our needs perfectly, the Allegheny Trail House caters primarily to cyclists, with its location just a short pedal to the Great Allegheny Passage. That trail winds for 150 miles through the mountains connecting Cumberland, Maryland to southwest Pennsylvania. The Trail House offers bike shuttles to its guests, beginning each day with a hearty breakfast. A fire-pit is available for use out back. During our visit, though temperatures were still seasonally warm, other guests gathered around the fire, no doubt reliving their cycling adventures of the day. Another amenity is a hot tub in that same area of the backyard.

The Trail House was a stately home, constructed in 1865 by prominent businessman Henry B. Shaffer. Well known as the Shaffer House, it is registered as a historic property, now enjoying its new life as an inn. It is within walking distance of restaurants, shops and a tavern or two.

The inn’s four rooms are named after person’s linked to the history of Frostburg or the Trail House. They are spacious and comfortable offering private bathrooms, air conditioning and cable TV. The common areas are comfortable. A small fridge located in the dining room is available for guests to store their snacks or drinks.

Jason, the proprietor was always available if needed, and made us feel welcome. He resides in an apartment in the back of the B&B with his dog Gus, who is happy to greet you, should you wish to make his acquaintance. We had various delicious options from which to choose for our breakfast each morning. We could even tailor the time that best suited our schedules. With a cup of coffee, it was the ideal start to our day.

The town of Frostburg is an added pleasure when headquartering there to fish. It came into being as a result of the National Road, which was the route east-west corridor for travelers in the early 1800s. The town grew up around a small log home built by Meshach Frost, the city’s founder. The community became popular as a stopping point for stagecoaches, offering weary travelers drink and rest. With the services of blacksmith shops, coal depots and the coming of a railroad, Frostburg flourished as a commercial center for mining. It also became home to what is today Frostburg State University.

For more information about the Allegheny Trail House, visit their website.