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Cheat Lake, a serene and vibrant destination in West Virginia, offers a diverse array of activities and attractions that cater to adventure travelers, wellness seekers, and family-friendly explorers. Along its 4.5-mile northeastern shoreline, the Cheat Lake Trail beckons hikers and nature enthusiasts, providing stunning views and access to various public entry points.
At Cheat Lake Park, families can enjoy a no-wake zone perfect for swimming, beach activities, and fishing, complemented by a playground and on-site fish cleaning station. Sunset Beach Marina, with its expansive gravel parking and marine shop, is a hub for boating and water sports, while the Ices Ferry Bridge access point is ideal for paddle sports enthusiasts and fishermen.
Nearby, the West Virginia Botanic Garden and the Museum of Geology and Natural History offer enriching experiences for those interested in flora and geological wonders. For scenic views, Coopers Rock and Raven Rock provide breathtaking overlooks. On the lake, activities range from boating and fishing to stand-up paddleboard yoga and kayaking. Evening relaxation is enhanced by three lakeside restaurants and bars, each offering unique dining experiences and sunset views. Whether you seek adventure, wellness, or family fun, Cheat Lake and its surroundings promise an unforgettable travel experience.
- Surface area (mi)
- 4.35
- Max depth (ft)
- 89.99
- Elevation (ft)
- 997.38
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 32.52
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Ice Skating
- Cross-country Skiing
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Marinas on Cheat Lake
Nearby lakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Cheat Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are designated swimming areas at Cheat Lake. These areas include the beach at Cheat Lake Park and Millstone Point Beach, where swimming is allowed but there are no lifeguards.
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Cheat Lake is a popular destination because it offers a variety of water activities. You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, boating, and jet skiing. The lake also has public and paid launch sites, and its calm waters are home to many fish species, making it ideal for bothassistant
Cheat Lake is a popular destination because it offers a variety of water activities. You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, boating, and jet skiing. The lake also has public and paid launch sites, and its calm waters are home to many fish species.
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Yes, you can use hand-fishing in Cheat Lake, West Virginia. Hand-fishing is allowed in Cheat Lake, which is one of the exceptions to the general prohibition on hand-fishing in state-managed impoundments. The season for hand-fishing runs from June 15 through August 31, from sunrise to sunset.
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The beach at Cheat Lake Park is best for families. It has a playground, picnic areas, and restrooms, making it a family-friendly spot. The beach is also accessible by car and has calm waters, ideal for swimming and other activities.
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Towns near Cheat Lake include Morgantown, Fairmont, and Granville, all located in Monongalia County, West Virginia. These towns are close to the lake, which is formed by the damming of the Cheat River. Morgantown is the largest nearby town, while Fairmont and Granville are smaller communities in the same county.
