Cheat Lake Park and Trail
Scenic park and trail system along Cheat Lake, offering hiking, biking, and historical exploration with beautiful water views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Cheat Lake Park and Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic park and trail system along Cheat Lake, offering hiking, biking, and historical exploration with beautiful water views.
🚗 Parking Tips
Look up Cheat Lake Park parking beforehand; the road down can be narrow. Arrive early on busy days.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the Cheat Lake hiking trails. The terrain can be uneven in places.
Quick Facts
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cheat Lake Rail Trail
Along the lake shore
A scenic path perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying lake views. Explore the remnants of the old Cheat Mine.
Lakefront Walking Trails
Various points within the park
Gentle trails offering picturesque vistas of Cheat Lake and surrounding woodlands. Ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Cheat Mine History
Along the Rail Trail
Discover the fascinating history of the old Cheat Mine and tipple, adding an educational element to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Access
Best Times for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Look up Cheat Lake Park parking beforehand; the road down can be narrow. Arrive early on busy days.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the Cheat Lake hiking trails. The terrain can be uneven in places.
Morgantown the worst place to fish on earth?
Seriously, this is getting pretty bad. I’ve tried White Park for Bass. Nada. Not one bite. Tried Chestnut Ridge. Nada. Tried the river. Oh wait, it’s full of floating human feces! No, I don’t have a boat. No I don’t want to feed trout all day. This town is a massive…
Place to run + do pull-ups?
I'm doing a training program that calls for some running mixed in with some pull-ups and other body weight exercises. Is there a spot around town with a decent place to run and decent monkey bars or something for pull-ups?
🚴♀️ Bike Rentals
Consider renting a bike to fully enjoy the Cheat Lake bike trail and cover more ground.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The lake and forest offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Now that it’s hot…best swimming spots in or near Morgantown? I know Cheat Lake and all that, but any other suggestions? Pools, creeks, etc.
If you want to drive to the Cheat River in Preston County. Between Kingwood and Rowlesburg on RT. 72 there are several places to swim.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Look up Cheat Lake Park parking beforehand; the road down can be narrow. Arrive early on busy days.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the Cheat Lake hiking trails. The terrain can be uneven in places.
🚴♀️ Bike Rentals
Consider renting a bike to fully enjoy the Cheat Lake bike trail and cover more ground.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The lake and forest offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cheat Lake Park and Trail for its beautiful lake views and accessible trails, particularly the scenic Rail Trail perfect for walking and biking. The historical remnants of the Cheat Mine add an interesting dimension. Some note the narrow access road and potential for crowds on weekends.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cheat Lake Park and Trail is accessible by car. The road leading down to the park can be narrow, so drive cautiously. Parking is available within the park, but it can fill up on weekends.
Public transportation options to Cheat Lake Park and Trail are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car.
The Cheat Lake Rail Trail is well-maintained and clearly marked. For other Cheat Lake hiking trails, it's advisable to use a trail map or a navigation app on your phone.
Yes, The Lakehouse Restaurant is a popular spot for lunch near the park. You can also explore other natural areas around Morgantown.
The main access point is Cheat Lake Park. The Cheat Lake Rail Trail also connects to other areas, offering multiple entry points for cyclists and hikers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cheat Lake Park and Trail generally does not have an entrance fee, making it a great free outdoor activity. Always check the official park website for any updates on fees or permits.
Park hours typically align with daylight hours. It's recommended to check the official Cheat Lake Park website for specific opening and closing times, as these can vary seasonally.
No, advance booking is not typically required for general access to Cheat Lake Park and Trail. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
Standard park rules apply, such as leash laws for pets and regulations against littering. Large group events might require permits, so check with park management if planning a gathering.
The Cheat Lake Rail Trail is generally open year-round during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking on the Cheat Lake hiking trails, biking on the Cheat Lake bike trail, fishing, picnicking, and exploring the historical Cheat Mine remnants.
The Cheat Lake Rail Trail is relatively flat and paved, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Some of the other Cheat Lake hiking trails can be more challenging with varied terrain.
Yes, Cheat Lake Park is very family-friendly. There are open spaces for kids to play, and the gentle trails are great for walks with children.
Dogs are generally allowed in Cheat Lake Park and on the trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please clean up after your pet.
Facilities typically include picnic areas, restrooms, and parking. Specific amenities may vary, so it's good to check the park's official information.
📸 📸 Photography
The lakefront along the Cheat Lake Rail Trail offers stunning water views. Look for scenic overlooks and areas with historical remnants of the Cheat Mine for unique shots.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most beautiful light for landscape photography at Cheat Lake Park.
The old Cheat Mine and tipple structures offer a rustic and historical backdrop. The changing colors of the leaves in autumn also create fantastic photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and forest views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and park-specific rules. It's essential to check with park authorities and adhere to all guidelines before flying a drone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit