Attractions and Places To See around Cheat Lake - Top 12

Cheat Lake offers several stunning natural features and viewpoints. You can experience panoramic views from Coopers Rock Overlook, which provides a 360-degree vista of the forest and the Cheat River. Another must-see is Raven Rock Viewpoint, offering excellent views over the Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area and the Cheat River. The lake itself, a 13-mile-long reservoir, is a central natural attraction, along with the surrounding Coopers Rock State Forest and Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area.

Yes, the area around Cheat Lake is rich in history. A significant historical landmark is the Henry Clay Furnace, constructed between 1834 and 1836, which played a crucial role in the region's iron industry. You can also visit Friendship Hill National Historic Site, the well-preserved home of Albert Gallatin, offering a glimpse into early American history with walking trails and exhibits. The Ices Ferry Bridge area also holds historical significance, as George Washington surveyed and crossed the Cheat River near this spot in 1784.

Cheat Lake is a hub for water-based recreation. You can enjoy a wide range of activities including boating, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, tubing, jet skiing, and fishing. The lake features both calm 'backwaters' ideal for swimming and fishing, and more open areas for adventurous activities. Sunset Beach Marina offers boat rentals, including kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis, along with ramp access.

Absolutely! Cheat Lake offers several family-friendly options. Coopers Rock Overlook and Henry Clay Furnace are both suitable for families. Cheat Lake Park is a popular spot with a playground, beach access for swimming, and picnic areas. The Cheat Lake Trail is a paved, accessible path perfect for family walks and cycling. Many of the water activities on the lake are also suitable for families.

Cheat Lake is a vibrant destination year-round, but the best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for water sports and enjoying the lake's amenities. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the state forests, with autumn providing spectacular foliage. The Cheat Lake Farmers' Market runs every summer, offering local produce and crafts.

Yes, the Cheat Lake area provides excellent opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. The Cheat Lake Trail is a 4.5-mile paved path suitable for cyclists. For mountain biking, you can explore various routes in Coopers Rock State Forest, such as the Rhododendron, Mont Chateau, Ridge, and Rock City loop, or the Scott Run loop. You can find more details on these and other routes in the MTB Trails around Cheat Lake guide and the Cycling around Cheat Lake guide.

Runners will find several appealing options near Cheat Lake. The paved Cheat Lake Trail offers a scenic and accessible route. For more challenging runs, Coopers Rock State Forest features trails like the Coopers Rock State Forest loop. You can discover more running routes, including those around Core Arboretum, in the Running Trails around Cheat Lake guide.

Several establishments around Cheat Lake offer dining with scenic views. Lakehouse on the Cheat, located at Sunset Beach Marina, is a popular dockside restaurant known for its sunset views. Edgewater Marina also hosts Whippoorwill Bar & Grill, providing another option for lakeside dining. These spots allow you to enjoy a meal while overlooking the expansive lake.

The Cheat Lake Trail is a 4.5-mile paved trail that follows the northeastern shoreline of Cheat Lake. It's an accessible path for walkers and cyclists, stretching from near the West Virginia-Pennsylvania border to the middle of the lake. Along the trail, you'll find docks and pavilions, perfect for picnics or fishing. It's a great way to experience the lake's beauty on foot or by bike.

Beyond the lake and state forests, the West Virginia Botanic Garden is a nearby attraction offering a peaceful natural setting for visitors. It provides a different kind of natural experience, focusing on cultivated plant collections and serene landscapes.

The Cheat River, which feeds into Cheat Lake, is a significant natural feature. It's a popular destination for paddlers and fly fishermen, known for its Class III, IV, and V rapids along its wild length. Surrounding state forest land and campgrounds provide access for various outdoor activities, including hiking and mountain biking along its banks. The river's scenic beauty is often highlighted from viewpoints like Raven Rock Viewpoint and Coopers Rock Overlook.

Cheat Lake has undergone significant conservation efforts since the 1990s. These initiatives focused on restoring the lake's water quality, which was previously impacted by acid mine drainage and industrial activity. These efforts have successfully transformed it into a vibrant ecosystem, making it a 'postcard-perfect' destination for recreation and a testament to environmental restoration.