Drive along the countryside roads from Pennsylvania into northern West Virginia, and soon you will arrive at your perfect destination: Cheat Lake, an artificial body of water brimming with some of the most beautiful scenes Appalachian has to offer. Constructed in the 1920s to control the Cheat River for the operation of the Lake Lynn hydropower station—which remains functional even now—the waters flowing through this lake provide sufficient energy to meet the needs of more than 13,000 households and numerous recreational activities. However, like many quintessential tales from America’s past, Cheat Lake had its fair share of challenges before becoming what it is today—a true testament to resilience.
For much of the 1900s, acid mine drainage jeopardized Cheat Lake’s status as a popular recreation spot. Biologists once documented just fifteen fish species thriving in those polluted waters. The situation worsened in the ’90s when two mining accidents transformed the river feeding Cheat Lake into an unsightly rust-colored mess. Fortunately, dedicated supporters came forward. They established the Friends of the Cheat initiative with the aim of rescuing the whole Cheat River watershed. Over three decades later since the formation of this group, the waters of Cheat Lake have become crystal-clear, allowing everyone to savor the benefits of their efforts.
Splash, ripple, and unwind at this bustling 13-mile-long lake brimming with activity. At the water’s edge lie multiple safeguarded natural reserves packed with hiking and cycling paths. This tranquil waterfront surrounded by woodlands offers a perfect spot for recreation and relaxation right outside your door. Easily reachable within one hundred thirty-five minutes from Pittsburgh International Airport via I-79, and just half an hour away from central Morganton.
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There are numerous entertaining activities at Cheat Lake.
Cheat Lake is among the most beautiful aquatic areas in West Virginia, achieving a notable distinction in a state that also boasts numerous stunning water bodies.
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The lake is long and quiet in some places, but wide and lively in others, with plenty of room to set out on motorboats and water toys. Dotting the lake’s edges are parks, marinas, and access ramps that make it easy to get your watercraft afloat. Bring your own fun, or stop by the Sunset Beach Marina to rent boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and more.
The ideal starting point would be Cheat Lake Park, featuring a boat ramp, playground, picnic areas, and a 4.5-mile long nature trail. For those interested in fishing, proceed to the northern part of the nature trail; there you’ll find an angling platform constructed by the Allegheny Energy company jutting into the lake. Beneath this floating structure lie sunken Christmas trees that help create a thriving aquatic ecosystem for fish.
Cheat Lake is conveniently near both the Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area and Coopers Rock State Forest, which is quite notable.
A West Virginia location featuring stunning autumn leaves
These locations offer trails for hiking, routes suitable for mountain biking, and cliffs ideal for rock climbing, all within reach so you could start with a trail walk early in the day, enjoy a meal at one of the picnic tables during noon, and relax by dipping your feet into a nearby lake later in the afternoon. Inside this state forest, multiple developed campsites await; however, should you prefer sleeping beneath an open canopy filled only with stars from the West Virginia night sky, navigate toward the southern part of the lake along the Cheat River where fewer primitive camping sites lie right next to the water’s edge. But remember—speed up paddling if you catch the sound of banjos playing around here.
Cheat Lake is just minutes away from Morgantown, West Virginia.
If the aim was to enhance Cheat Lake for extended weekend getaways, those responsible for constructing this dam could not have chosen a superior spot. There’s far more to enjoy around here besides swimming in the lake. Cheat Lake is conveniently close to excellent dining, accommodation, and recreational choices in Morgantown.
In the area between Downtown Morgantown Historic District and the primary WVU campus, you’ll find an inviting spot brimming with variety, steeped in the essence of iron mining territory. You can browse through locally owned shops such as Appalachian Gallery and Hoot and Howl, indulge in a meal from Black Bear Burritos or Von Blaze, or settle down for some acclaimed Japanese cuisine at Yama. Craft beer enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice too; explore different tastes at The Mountain State Brewing Company, Chestnut Brew Works, and Short Story Brewing’s branch in Morgantown. Afterward, pick up a six-pack of your preferred brew to savor later during a relaxing time by the lakeside.
The town boasts several appealing outdoor areas and nature paths. Among these, the Mon River Rail-Trail stands out as the premier option, stretching an impressive 29 miles along a meandering route of gravel and asphalt from one end of the town to the other following the Monongahela River. Additionally, both the West Virginia Botanic Garden and the university-operated Arboretum contribute significantly more verdant space. All these locations are accessible at no cost to everyone.
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