To many, it may be a surprise that white water rafting is just as popular at Deep Creek as is skiing. In fact, ASCI, Deep Creek Lake’s state-of-the-art man-made white water rafting facility is one of its kind. ASCI, which stands for ‘Adventure Sports Center International’, also houses many other activities such as rock climbing, hiking and biking, but none compare to the whitewater experience crafted for beginner water rapids to expert conditions.
What makes this so state-of-the-art you say? For one, the course is a 1700 foot long loop (about a third of a mile), which can pump 250,000 gallons of water per minute! The course allows to give various conditions throughout the day. The difficulty ranges from beginner Level 1 conditions, in which the water is not pumped as fast, all the way to expert Level IV conditions towards the end of each day.
Aside from the amazing water capacity, this 24 million dollar facility is the only one in the world created on top of a mountain and is only one of two in the Western Hemisphere! Over 40 million pounds of rock were excavated while creating this course and thousands of boulders were used to similate a realiztic rafting environment, except in this case, with more safety and in the end, more rafting for you! Construction has been completed in December 2007.
From the ASCI website:
Test your timing, reflexes and teamwork on the world’s only adjustable whitewater sports venue that offers class 1-4 whitewater in a “controlled” environment without typical river hazards such as downed trees (strainers), undercut rocks and places for foot entrapment. We do, however, educate you about those hazards for your overall knowledge of river safety, enjoyment and awareness.
ASCI’s “conveyor” conveniently transports you from the finish pond to start pool, eliminating the hassles and time spent on vehicle shuttles from take-out to put-in with traditional whitewater experiences.
ASCI is a premier learning and training center for whitewater rafting and kayaking. Expert guides, instructors and former U.S. Team members on staff ensure high quality and consistent teaching methods.
Rafting is as safe as it gets at ASCI. Instructors will accompany all groups who do not have prior experience and will guide your group through the rapids to help them through any potential pitfalls.
What is most amazing about this facility is the water reservoir used to run the water through the rapids. Not only is there a large power supply used to release the water into the rapids, but the water is maintained so a certain level of water can be run through the course each day. This pond on top of the Wisp Mountain can hold up to 13 million gallons of water, more than enough to fuel the rapids ahead.
Rafters and kyakers begin their course (as shown in the picture above) in the 13 M gallon reservoir and are advanced by a moving track, which will drop them off in the beginning of the course. Each ride lasts about 20 minutes and riders are limited for 2 hours of riding at a time (or 6 rides). The course is extremely affordable for a frequent visitor. If you bring your own boat and paddles, you can get an all-day pass for $15. See their pricing info page for more info on other options if you plan on participating with a group. You can also see more info and make a reservation here.
Finished with ASCI Part 1? On to ASCI Part 2
Hop to ASCI Part 3 or ASCI Part 4 of 4.
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