Adventure Sports Center: McHenry, MD
THE WORLD’s FIRST MOUNTAINTOP RIVER
An Extraordinary Example of Flexible Whitewater Design – The Adventure Sports Center has become a major attraction in rural Western Maryland, drawing paddlers from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. And it’s no surprise, as this self-contained whitewater course on top of 3,000-foot Marsh Mountain is a uniquely realistic achievement of whitewater design. Significant features include:
- Recreation-friendly for the general public
- Unprecedented WaveShaper adjustability for a single-channel design
- Utilization of natural boulders using river restoration techniques
- Intimate access to the rapids via rock overlooks • Recreation-friendly for the general public
MWDG’s legacy is the careful integration of real boulders into the whitewater course. Not only do the beautiful rocks convey an air of wildness and authenticity; they also form the actual rapids and offer a unique, ‘natural’ feel to the water that artificial obstacles cannot duplicate. Kudos to MWDG’s continued leadership in whitewater design.
- Matt Taylor, Executive Director and former member of the US Whitewater Olympic Slalom Team
Whitewater newcomers and enthusiasts alike have easy access to predicable, world-class whitewater from Washington, DC, Pittsburgh, Baltimore and Philadelphia.
The Stage for Outdoor Education Variety - The course serves as an anchor for the Adventure Sports Center International (ASCI), a 501(c)(3) organization. Beyond introducing thousands of people to the thrill of whitewater in a safe setting, ASCI offers a variety of outdoor activities including rock climbing, hiking, biking, trail running, and more.
A Site for World-Class Events – ASCI has hosted events that featuring top US National and international Olympic Champions, such as the US Freestyle and Slalom National Championships and festivals.
Services Provided – Design Alternatives / Conceptual, Preliminary Design / Physical Model / Final Design, Bid Documents / Construction Services / Building Design
For more information, visit the Adventure Sports Center International online.



