West Virginia is known for having wonderful lakes. Each is worth exploring and plenty of people in West Virginia take pride in doing just that.
Cheat Lake, near Morgantown, West Virginia, is a narrow winding reservoir. One key feature of this stunning body of water is that while it has 13 miles of shoreline, you can pretty much always see across — it feels intimate. Take a stroll along the North Trail and find your own pretty little place to be.
This two-mile trail is an easy walk. You’ll find a well-maintained gravel path to follow.
Depending on your pace, it will likely take approximately 45 minutes to 90 minutes to complete.
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Notice the narrow river-like view of the winding lake.
This is a spot for all seasons.
This photo shows the shoreline in late fall. Isn't it beautiful?
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Still a stunner in winter.
Ah, the summertime view is pretty nice as well.
There are plenty of options for recreation and hidden trails to venture off and explore. Waterfalls and swimming holes await those who leave the easy walkway.
You will find the beach, picnic tables, and playground along the way.
Many consider the trail at its most beautiful near the Lake Lynn Dam.
Lake Lynn was the original name of the lake. It became Cheat Lake in 1976.
The calm and still water of Cheat Lake is perfect for your camera. Make sure you don't leave it behind!
After your walk, let us know what you think about Cheat Lake in West Virginia. Be sure to post some pictures and share your thoughts in the comments!
For more information about this lake and the surrounding area, make sure to check out the Cheat Lake Facebook page. And if you are searching for a remote lake to explore in West Virginia, plan a visit to Laurel Lake Wildlife Management Area. This hidden gem is heavenly!
Nature is all around us here in West Virginia. And while most people opt to explore our state's breathtaking mountain scenery, you'll be just as impressed when you spend time near the water. West Virginia has plenty of wonderful lakes to choose from, but Mount Storm Lake is just a little bit different...the water stays warm all year round. So the next time you're planning a remarkable fall adventure in West Virginia, we hope you keep this special destination in mind.
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Mount Storm Lake is a 1,200-acre reservoir on the Stony River in Grant County, West Virginia.
The lake was built in 1965 to provide cooling for the Mount Storm Power Station.
The coal-fired power plant uses a series of filters to remove the coal ash and sulfur dioxide from the air, making the air and water here safe.
Part of the lake is open to the public for boating, fishing, and scuba diving.
In the cooler weather, you can see steam rising off the water.
In the background of this picture, you can also see the Mount Storm Wind Farm. The windy area here also makes the lake a great spot for sailing.
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The lake is especially popular in the cooler fall weather.
Even when the surrounding air drops below freezing, the lake rarely drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit!
Although swimming is no longer allowed in the lake because of the number of boats, you can still go scuba diving.
The clear water provides a great view of the life under the surface.
Here's a video of a diver feeding catfish in the lake.
Directions: From Mt. Storm, WV where Rt. 42 intersects U.S. Rt. 50 - proceed about 4 miles on 42 South and bear right at the Liberty Gas station onto Rt. 93 towards Davis / Thomas. Continue about 3 more miles and just before the dam and powerplant, bear left onto the gravel road just opposite of the boat launch sign. Have you ever visited Mount Storm Lake in West Virginia? What did you think of your experience there? Be sure to share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you!
For more history of West Virginia's lakes, take a look at the town of Gad, which once existed where Summersville Lake is now:
If you're looking for some places to go in the fall in West Virginia, here are some suggestions for you. West Virginia is one of the best places to view the changing colors of the trees each autumn, but you'll soon discover the leaves aren't the only things to check out! Here are some fall places to visit near you in West Virginia.
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1. The Gauley River
Each fall, water from the Summersville Dam is released into the Gauley, making it one of the best white water rivers in the country. The river drops 650 feet over 26 miles and has more than 100 major rapids. Fall is a great time to visit the Gauley River if you’re a rafter. Read all about this outfitter and get excited to book your own river adventure!
2. Old McDonald’s Pumpkin Patch & Cornmaze in Inwood
Check out this pumpkin patch and corn maze! Open from the end of September through October, they have an intricate corn maze on a 5-acre field and a ton of pumpkins, plus farm animals, hayrides, corn hole and more. If you are looking for things to do in West Virginia in October, this is a good choice.
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3. Blackwater Falls State Park
This park, near Davis, is perfect for viewing the fall foliage. Learn more about this beautiful waterfall in West Virginia and why you should explore the park this fall!
Cheer on the Thundering Herd at a Marshall football game! Read all about planning your trip to the university in the charming city of Huntington.
6. Coopers Rock State Forest
Another great place to view fall's colors is Coopers Rock State Forest, near Bruceton Mills. This unusual forest is filled with plenty to see and do for the entire family!
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7. The Pumpkin House in Kenova
An army of volunteers help carve thousands of pumpkins for Kenova's famous pumpkin house each year in time for Halloween. It is quite a sight to see, and about 30,000 visitors come to visit annually. Read all about this unique fall tradition and when to visit.
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8. Hawks Nest State Park
One of the many places to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage West Virginia has to offer. Learn how to get a bird's eye view of this stunning park.
9. Babcock State Park
Another great place to see autumn's colors in the trees. The grist mill makes for beautiful pictures at this park in Cliftop. You don't want to miss a visit to this scenic park.
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10. The New River Gorge Bridge
Fall -- and specifically Bridge Day -- is the best day to visit the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayetteville. It's the only day of the year when it's legal to BASE jump off of it, and people come from all over to do just that, or to watch as others do. Bridge Day is typically in mid-October, and whether you plan to jump or just visit, be sure to read these unique facts about the bridge!
11. The Corn Maze at Cooper Family Farms of Milton
Get lost — in a corn maze, that is! This farm offers daytime and haunted corn maze fun every fall. You can also zip line above the maze. Find out for yourself why this is one of the best corn mazes in West Virginia!
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12. Spencer
Check out the Black Walnut Festival in Spencer this fall! The festival is held annually in mid-October. There is plenty to see and do, including a parade, carnival, food vendors, live music, art shows and more. You're going to want to make time to visit this fall festival!
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13. Dolly Sods
Another great viewing area for fall foliage is Dolly Sods. Read all about this wilderness area!
Pick your own apples and pumpkins at this farm in Martinsburg. From early September to the beginning of November, you can experience all the fall fun. You can even schedule bonfire hayrides for you and all your friends! You'll be excited to learn all you can do at this charming farm market.
How many of these places to go in the fall in West Virginia have you experienced? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
West Virginia is truly a magical place when the leaves change and the air cools enough for you to break out your favorite cozy sweater. Here are some of our favorite fall destinations in WV. If you are planning a fall colors road trip, check out our guide to road trip essentials.
If you are looking for another fun fall destination in West Virginia, check out the Palace of Gold in New Vrindaban. It is a unique place full of interesting artistic expression that might just surprise you: