According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the outdoor recreation economy produced a record $682 billion in economic output, 4.5 million jobs, and 1.9% of the total U.S. GDP in 2021. These statistics position outdoor recreation to a similar degree of national economic significance as industries such as mining or utilities.
With easy access to the Potomac River, Appalachian Trail, and nearly 100 national, state, county, and municipal park facilities, Frederick has become known world-wide for its outdoor opportunities. In fact, outdoor recreation is now the second most popular reason stated for coming to the area at Frederick’s Visitor Center.
We caught up with four local businesses that are exclusively dedicated to the outdoor recreation economy. Below we asked them to share a little about what they do, news from the industry, and a few tricks of the trade for locals wanting to join in the fun this summer.
The Trail House
17 S Market
The Trail House is an outdoor specialty retail shop, with a goal of outfitting every customer with the clothing, footwear, and gear they need for any outdoor adventure. The store offers technical outdoor equipment and gear for hiking, backpacking, and climbing as well as outdoor lifestyle clothing, footwear and accessories. No matter what outdoor activity you are looking for, their knowledgeable staff can help you get what you need to enjoy the outdoors.
Who are your customers?
Our customers can be from anyone that gets outside to walk a few days to someone preparing for a 10-day backpacking or climbing trip overseas. We serve Frederick and all the surrounding communities with all their needs.
How did you pick Frederick as the home your recreation-based business?
The Trail House was started in 1984, by Clyde and Gerry Hicks. Gerry was born and raised in Frederick. When they were thinking about the idea of an outdoor store, they realized how much the Frederick area had to offer in terms of outdoor recreation.
Fast forward almost 40 years, Drennan and Catie Hicks, their son and daughter-in-law, have now taken over the business and look forward to continuing to serve the Frederick outdoor community. Outdoor recreation opportunities continue to grow. Frederick County has 4 National Parks, 5 State Parks, 32 County Parks and the Frederick City Watershed which provide ample opportunity for hiking, biking, and camping.
What is the most exciting thing on the horizon for your business?
We are looking forward to continuing to grow and support the Frederick Outdoor community. We are also looking forward to partnering and supporting local outdoor environmental causes.
Insider tip for summer recreation
The secret is out about most of our local recreation spots. On a Sunday morning, you may find 100 cars at the Hamburg Rd Parking area in the Frederick City Watershed. Get out early and beat the crowds (and heat) or make time during the week for an evening hike and picnic. Stop in and chat with our staff for the inside scoop on favorite spots all over the county.
Metro Recreation
1573 Tilco Drive
Metro Recreation is a full-service playground and recreation company based in Frederick, serving Maryland, Washington, DC and West Virginia. The company offers a full range of playground-related products and services — including design, installation, safety audits, and consultation.
Who are your customers?
Our customers are parks and recreation departments, public schools, municipalities, private communities, churches, daycares, or any other place you may find a public play area.
How did you pick Frederick as the home of your recreation-based business?
We have satellite offices in Annapolis MD, Inwood WV, and Charleston WV. I am a Frederick County resident, but we chose our Tilco Dr. location in Frederick City for our main office, because of its proximity to major highways and to recycling facilities.
What is the most exciting thing on the horizon for your business?
We are most excited about our large custom projects for Baltimore County and Maryland Department of General Services. One-of-a-kind designs are simultaneously the most challenging and rewarding.
INSIDER TIP FOR SUMMER RECREATION:
Incorporate a playground visit into other trips, even if you are just running errands with the kids. Just google “playground near me” during any trip in Maryland to be surprised and impressed by cool local play areas. Frederick City and County have many beautiful and well-designed parks that meet the needs of families and children of all abilities.
Go Ape
241 e 4th Street
Go Ape is an outdoor adventure company that owns and operates 15 Zipline & Adventure parks across the USA. The company’s mission is to inspire others to live life adventurously and provide guests the opportunity to do that right in their backyards.
Who are your customers?
Our customers are anyone who loves adventure or is looking to introduce more adventure into their lives! Go Ape is perfect for everyone including friends, families, companies and parties.
How did you pick Frederick as the home of your recreation-based business?
We felt that Frederick was an excellent mix of community and city living with a lively downtown. We fell in love with the city from day one. And of course, it is so close to mountains and beaches for when we want an easy escape to the outdoors (which is always!)
What is the most exciting thing on the horizon for your business?
We are growing! In addition to expanding our park locations and bringing our adventure to new communities, we are also adding to the experience at Go Ape. Recent additions include Forest Escape, an outdoor escape room, Axe Throwing, and Nights at Height, a treetop adventure at night.
INSIDER TIP FOR SUMMER RECREATION:
If you feel like you are too busy to get outdoors and on adventures, embrace micro adventure! No time for camping? Camp in your backyard. No time for longer road trips? Smaller local trips can scratch that itch too. Just get outside!
Chesaco RV
1501 E Patrick
Chesaco RV is an exclusive Jayco Dealer selling their full line of recreational vehicles —- from single axel travel trailers, fifth wheels and motorhomes. The company prides itself in selling memories and traditions.
Who are your customers?
Our customers are a wide spectrum from young customers that work remotely to families to retirees that all want to go out and enjoy all aspects of camping whether its boondocking, glamping or full time living. We have a selection that will fit everyone’s needs.
INSIDER TIPs FOR SUMMER RECREATION:
Bring an extension cord to the campground
Periodically check your RV sealants ( roof, windows, etc) — it will save you a lot of money in the long run!
Use citronilla candles to keep bugs away
An outdoor pen gives your pets a little bit of roaming room and they can enjoy camping too!
Thinking of starting your business “adventure?” Reach out to the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development to create a plan and begin your business journey!
Call 301.600.6360 or email business@cityoffrederickmd.gov .