The best road cycling routes around Cheat Lake

There are over 20 road cycling routes around Cheat Lake, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels. You can find options ranging from easy, flat paths to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.

The terrain around Cheat Lake primarily features rolling hills and dedicated multi-use trails. You'll encounter a mix of scenic lake views, dense woodlands, and river valley paths. Some routes offer moderate elevation changes, while others follow relatively flat profiles along riverbanks.

Yes, Cheat Lake offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. For example, the Hazel Ruby McQuain Park – Core Arboretum loop from Point Marion is an easy 22.3-mile path that follows riverbanks with a relatively flat profile. The Caperton Trail – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Morgantown is another easy option, covering about 6.8 miles.

While many routes feature rolling hills, some offer more significant climbs. For a moderate challenge with notable elevation gain, consider the Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Morgantown, which covers 26.6 miles through forested areas with over 1,300 feet of ascent. The Roadbike loop from Pierpont is another moderate option with substantial elevation.

Spring and fall are generally the best times for road cycling around Cheat Lake. Spring offers lush greenery and comfortable temperatures, while fall is renowned for its captivating foliage, especially in nearby areas like Coopers Rock State Forest. Summer can be pleasant, but be prepared for warmer temperatures and potential humidity. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions may vary, with some trails potentially experiencing snow or ice.

Road cycling around Cheat Lake provides stunning natural beauty. You'll enjoy expansive lake views, particularly along the Cheat Lake Trail, and ride through lush forested hillsides and dense woodlands. The area is part of West Virginia's 'Almost Heaven' region, known for its rivers and abundant forests, offering a verdant backdrop throughout your ride.

Yes, several notable attractions are close to the cycling routes. You can find viewpoints like Coopers Rock Overlook and Raven Rock Viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas. Historical sites such as Henry Clay Furnace and Friendship Hill National Historic Site are also within reach, providing cultural interest to your ride.

The Cheat Lake Trail is an excellent family-friendly option. This scenic, wooded trail follows the east bank of Cheat Lake for approximately 4.5 to 7.1 miles, depending on the section. Its smooth, crushed limestone or compact stone surface is ideal for recreational cycling, suitable for all skill levels, and even handicap accessible with its 12-foot width. It offers continuous lake views and amenities like picnic tables and restrooms at Cheat Lake Park.

Many of the road cycling routes around Cheat Lake are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Core Arboretum – Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Morgantown and the Hazel Ruby McQuain Park loop from Morgantown, providing convenient round-trip experiences.

Parking is available at various access points around Cheat Lake. Cheat Lake Park offers parking facilities, which are convenient for accessing the Cheat Lake Trail. Other trailheads for routes like the Mon River Trail South or Deckers Creek Trail also typically have designated parking areas.

While direct public transport specifically for accessing cycling routes around Cheat Lake might be limited, Morgantown, the nearest major town, has public transit options. You may need to plan your route to connect from a public transport stop in Morgantown to the start of your chosen cycling trail.

Many multi-use trails in the Cheat Lake area, including sections of the Cheat Lake Trail and other rail-trails, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and check specific trail regulations before you go to ensure compliance and a pleasant experience for everyone.

Road cyclists frequently praise the scenic lake views and the peaceful, forested environments that characterize the routes around Cheat Lake. The variety of terrain, from flat riverbank paths to routes with moderate climbs, is also a highlight, catering to different skill levels and preferences.