History
The land now consisting of the Alpine Lake Resort originally had only the Wardwell Creek flowing through it, known locally as the “Waddle.” Arlie Hull, an area resident, purchased the property in the 1930’s and dammed the stream to create a 5-acre reservoir that was first named Bass Lake. The fisheries stocking the lake were among the largest in the eastern US and therefore became widely-known, making the property a mecca for sportsmen. Due to its popularity, Hull expanded the property by building a hunting and fishing club and planting grain in the surrounding fields. Most significantly, the lake was increased to 65 acres and became known as Hull’s Lake.
In 1965, business leaders from the surrounding area acquired the camp from Hull and developed the property into a membership resort called “Mountaintop Vacationland.” A 9-hole golf course, downhill ski slopes, and a small lodge were added to the land. Mountaintop Vacationland was purchased in 1969 by Morgantown industrialist J.W. Ruby and renamed to “Alpine Lake” in 1971. It was under Ruby’s direction that the development was greatly expanded, including a vast increase to the size of the lake via a new dam and establishing a complete plan for a residential community. In 1980, a few years after Ruby's death, Alpine Lake was officially turned over to its property owners. To this day, the Alpine Lake Property Owners Association manages all aspects of community and its common facilities, funded primarily through assessments and fees.
Alpine Lake Resort now encompasses the 148-acre lake and nearly 2,000 acres of wooded land. The lodge serves a central hub to the resort, pulling socialites, golfers, and pub goers together. Anglers and adventurers commonly take canoes, kayaks, and small sailboats out on the water. The lake is routinely stocked with fish, some measuring up to 15 to 18 inches and weighing up to two pounds. A sandy beach and a large boathouse provide ideal spots to swim, relax, and soak up the sun along the water’s edge. Beyond the sparkling lake, residents and guests of Alpine Lake can enjoy a wide variety of activities from golf and walking in the summer to cross-country skiing in the winter. Special events -- such as a music festival, a luau, and an Oktoberfest -- create seasonal entertainment on the property.
The nearby towns of Terra Alta and Oakland offer the basics of everyday living, and within a short drive, Deep Creek Lake provides a wealth of recreational activities and attractions. The Garrett State Forest also offers more outdoor opportunities, including the majestic Swallow Falls.
