Cheat Lake, WV
- About the Area
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sporting Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
Cheat Lake is a suburban community and reservoir near Morgantown, WV, offering abundant water recreation, scenic beauty, and easy access to outdoor adventures at nearby state forests.
About the Area
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
Cheat Lake is a census-designated place (CDP) in Monongalia County, West Virginia, United States . It is an unincorporated community that serves as a suburban residential area for the nearby city of Morgantown. The CDP is part of the Morgantown metropolitan area and is named after the 13-mile-long reservoir it surrounds . West Virginia, known as the "Mountain State," is characterized entirely by the Appalachian Mountain range, offering rugged landscapes and outdoor recreation.
Date of Foundation and Age
The history of Cheat Lake is tied directly to the damming of the Cheat River. The Lake Lynn hydroelectric dam was constructed between 1924 and 1926, and water first flowed over the dam on December 23, 1925 . The reservoir it created was originally named Lake Lynn, after Albert M. Lynn, the president of the West Penn Power company . The name was officially changed to Cheat Lake by the Board on Geographic Names in 1976 . The community that has grown around it is just under 100 years old.
Geographic Location and Coordinates
The Cheat Lake CDP is located in northern West Virginia at coordinates 39°40′0″N 79°51′10″W . The reservoir itself is situated at approximately 39°43′10″N 79°51′24″W . The area is positioned in the northeastern corner of Monongalia County, stretching from near the Mason-Dixon line, which forms the border with Pennsylvania . The elevation of the CDP is around 997 feet (304 m) above sea level, while the lake's surface elevation is 870 feet (270 m) . The community is located in the Appalachian Mountains, about 10 miles east of downtown Morgantown and West Virginia University .
Type of Area and Economic Specialization
Cheat Lake is primarily a residential suburban area and a recreational hub. Its economy and identity are centered around the lake itself. The primary functions of the area are:
- Recreational Center: The lake is the main attraction, drawing visitors for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports .
- Residential Area: It is an upscale, family-friendly suburban community for people working in Morgantown and at West Virginia University .
- Energy Production: The Lake Lynn Hydroelectric Power Plant at the dam continues to generate electricity, with a capacity of 52 megawatts .
Population and Demographics
As of the 2023 estimates, the population of the Cheat Lake CDP is approximately 10,485 . At the 2020 census, the population was officially 9,930 .
- Class by population: Small town / Large Census-Designated Place.
- Demographics: The area is predominantly residential with a high homeownership rate of about 80% . It is known as a peaceful, family-friendly neighborhood with good schools . The median household income is significantly higher than the state average, at around $111,000 . The community is primarily composed of White (Non-Hispanic) residents (around 90%), with smaller Black or African American and Asian communities .
"Visiting Card" (Briefly)
Cheat Lake is a scenic, 13-mile-long reservoir in the hills of West Virginia, just minutes from Morgantown. It's a beloved local playground where visitors can boat, fish, and swim in the calm waters, surrounded by forested hillsides, before enjoying a meal at a dockside restaurant or exploring the nearby trails of Coopers Rock State Forest .
Geography
Mountains and Ranges
While the Cheat Lake CDP is not located within a specific mountain, it is situated in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. The surrounding landscape is defined by forested hills that are part of this ancient range. The area offers classic Appalachian scenery with rolling, tree-covered terrain.
Water Objects
The defining water feature of the area is, of course, the lake itself.
- Cheat Lake: A man-made reservoir on the Cheat River, created by the Lake Lynn Dam in 1925-1926 . It is 13 miles (21 km) long, up to three miles wide, and covers 1,730 acres (700 ha) . The lake is used for a wide variety of recreational activities including boating, jet skiing, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and fishing . It is home to several marinas, including Sunset Beach Marina and Edgewater Marina .
- Cheat River: The primary inflow for Cheat Lake. The river flows through the scenic Cheat Canyon before being impounded to form the lake .
Beaches and Shores
Cheat Lake features designated swimming areas that function as beaches for residents and visitors.
- Cheat Lake Park Beach: Located at Cheat Lake Park, this is a popular spot for swimming. The park has a playground, restrooms, and a beach area, making it family-friendly . It is located in a "no-wake" part of the lake, ensuring calmer waters for swimming .
- Sunset Beach: Another access point with a beach area for swimming. It is also the location of the Sunset Beach Marina and the Lakehouse restaurant .
National and State Parks
While there are no national parks directly in Cheat Lake, it is in close proximity to a major West Virginia state forest.
- Coopers Rock State Forest: Located just 10 miles east of Cheat Lake, this popular state forest overlooks the lake and the Cheat River Gorge . It is a regional favorite for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, camping, and enjoying spectacular overlooks, especially during fall foliage season .
- Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area: Another nearby natural area offering hiking, hunting, and scenic views of the Cheat Lake region .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Cheat Lake, like the rest of West Virginia, has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) according to the Köppen classification, though it experiences significant continental influences due to its elevation and inland location. It features four distinct seasons with warm, humid summers and cool to moderately cold winters.
Average Temperatures
While specific monthly data for Cheat Lake is not available, the climate is typical of the Appalachian foothills of northern West Virginia.
- Summer: Summers are warm and humid. Daytime highs in July and August typically average in the low to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 28-30°C). Nights are comfortable, usually dropping into the 60s°F (around 16-20°C).
- Winter: Winters are cool to cold. Daytime highs in January are often in the low 40s°F (around 4-6°C), with nighttime lows frequently dropping below freezing to the mid-20s°F (around -3 to -4°C).
- Spring and Fall: These are transitional seasons with mild to warm temperatures, making them particularly pleasant for outdoor activities.
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: Precipitation is abundant and well-distributed throughout the year. The region receives a significant amount of rainfall, contributing to the lush forests. Average annual precipitation is likely in the range of 40-45 inches (1000-1150 mm). Late winter and spring can be the wettest periods.
- Snowfall: Snow is common in winter, though heavy accumulations are less frequent than in higher mountain elevations. The area typically sees a mix of rain and snow throughout the winter months.
- Humidity: Humidity levels are highest in the summer months, which can make the heat feel more pronounced.
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cheat Lake depends on the desired activities, but late spring through early fall offers the widest range of options.
- Spring (April-May): The landscape greens up with blooming trees and wildflowers. Temperatures are mild, perfect for hiking at Coopers Rock. The lake is open, but water temperatures are still cool for swimming.
- Summer (June-August): This is peak season for water activities on Cheat Lake, including swimming, boating, and jet skiing . It's warm and humid. Evenings are pleasant for dining at lakeside restaurants.
- Fall (September-October): Widely considered the most beautiful time of year. The hillsides explode with autumn color, making it an idyllic time for scenic drives, hiking, and leaf-peeping at Coopers Rock State Forest, which overlooks the lake .
- Winter (November-March): A quiet time on the lake. This season is best for cozy getaways and exploring the trails in the surrounding state forests, which can be dusted with snow.
Landmarks and Attractions
Architectural Landmarks: The Dam
- Lake Lynn Hydroelectric Dam: The very reason for the lake's existence. This dam, completed in 1926, is a significant piece of early 20th-century industrial architecture . Stretching about 1,000 feet across the Cheat River, it is located just south of the West Virginia-Pennsylvania border and continues to generate power today . While not a traditional tourist site, it is the central landmark from which the entire recreational area was born.
Parks and Recreation Areas
- Cheat Lake Park: A primary public access point to the lake, offering a playground, beach for swimming, restrooms, and access to the Cheat Lake Trail. Its location in a no-wake zone makes it especially popular for families and swimmers .
- Sunset Beach Marina: More than just a marina, this is a hub of activity on the lake. It offers boat and jet ski rentals, a marine shop, a large launch ramp, and is the location of The Lakehouse, a popular dockside bar and grill known for its sunset views .
- Cheat Lake Trail: A 4.5-mile paved path that follows the northeastern shoreline of the lake. It's open to walkers, runners, and cyclists, and features docks and pavilions perfect for picnicking and fishing .
- Coopers Rock State Forest: Although technically a separate destination, it is the major landmark associated with Cheat Lake. Located just 10 miles away, its main overlook provides stunning, postcard-perfect views of the Cheat River Gorge and the lake itself . It is a must-visit for hikers, campers, and nature lovers.
Monuments and Memorials
Cheat Lake is primarily a natural and recreational area and does not feature significant historical monuments or statues within its immediate boundaries.
Transport
Major Airports
Cheat Lake does not have its own airport. The nearest major commercial airport is about 1.5 hours away.
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT): Located approximately 75 miles north of Cheat Lake, about a 1.5-hour drive via I-79 . It is the largest airport in the region, serving as a major hub for domestic and international travel.
Regional Airports
- Morgantown Municipal Airport (MGW): Also known as Walter L. Bill Hart Field, this is the closest airport, located just a short drive from Cheat Lake. It offers general aviation services and limited commercial flights, primarily through United Express to Washington-Dulles (IAD) and Pittsburgh (PIT).
Major Highways
Cheat Lake is well-connected by road, with a major interstate highway running directly through the area.
- Interstate 68 (I-68): This major east-west highway crosses over Cheat Lake . It provides a direct route to Morgantown to the west and connects to I-79. To the east, it leads into Maryland. The highway makes the area easily accessible from surrounding states.
- I-79: Located just west of Morgantown, this north-south interstate connects the region to Pittsburgh to the north and central West Virginia to the south.
Public Transport
Public transportation within the Cheat Lake CDP is limited. The area is car-dependent, with most residents commuting to work alone . The average commute time is around 23 minutes . The primary public transport provider in the county is Mountain Line Transit, which serves Morgantown and some surrounding areas. Visitors to Cheat Lake will find a personal vehicle essential for getting around.
Other Transport
The Cheat Lake area has a network of roads suitable for cycling, particularly the paved Cheat Lake Trail, which offers a car-free path for recreation .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Ruby & Ketchy's Restaurant: A Cheat Lake Institution
The most iconic dining destination in Cheat Lake is Ruby & Ketchy's Restaurant, a family diner that has been serving classic American comfort food since 1958 . This beloved spot is known for its old-fashioned, homemade fare, much of which is still made from the original recipes created by founder Ruby herself .
The menu features classic breakfast items like warm, gooey cinnamon rolls and biscuits smothered in sausage gravy, alongside daily lunch and dinner specials such as potato soup with grilled cheese, meatloaf, stuffed cabbage, and hot roast beef with gravy . The restaurant is particularly famous for its from-scratch fruit pies, including cherry, apple, peachberry, and the ever-popular blackberry, as well as meringue pies like chocolate, lemon, and coconut .
With its wood-paneled walls, red leather stools, and gingham curtains, the diner offers a vintage atmosphere where locals and regulars feel like family .
Museums
West Virginia Botanic Garden
While not a traditional museum, the West Virginia Botanic Garden (WVBG) , located nearby at the Tibbs Run Reservoir, serves as a living museum of the region's natural flora . It is the only botanical garden in the state of West Virginia and offers a place to appreciate the local ecosystem and biodiversity . The garden hosts educational and cultural events throughout the year, such as the "Season of Good Taste" event featuring local chefs and live music .
Sport and Sporting Legends
Outdoor Recreation at Cheat Lake
Cheat Lake itself is the central hub for sports and recreation in the area. The lake, created in 1926 by damming the Cheat River, covers 1,730 acres and stretches 13 miles long, offering ample space for water-based activities .
The lake and its surrounding areas are popular for boating, fishing, and water sports. After significant conservation efforts since the 1990s that reversed decades of environmental degradation from the coal and iron industries, the Cheat Lake fishery has been restored, making it a viable spot for anglers once again . The scenic beauty of the lake has also led to the development of major resorts and upscale communities, making it a destination for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment .
Coopers Rock State Forest
Overlooking Cheat Lake is Coopers Rock State Forest, a major destination for hiking, rock climbing, and breathtaking views of the Cheat River Gorge . It provides extensive trails for mountain biking and cross-country skiing, making it a year-round playground for outdoor sports enthusiasts.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Higher Education Nearby
While Cheat Lake itself is a suburban community, it is in close proximity to West Virginia University (WVU) in nearby Morgantown. WVU is the region's largest university and a major land-grant research institution. The presence of WVU significantly shapes the area, with many of Cheat Lake's residents being university faculty, staff, or students .
For those seeking community college options, the nearest is Pierpont Community and Technical College, located about 20.8 miles away in Fairmont, WV .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
WVU Medicine Cheat Lake Physicians
The primary healthcare facility within Cheat Lake is WVU Medicine Cheat Lake Physicians, located at 608 Cheat Road . Operated by WVU Hospitals, this modern clinic offers a full range of primary care services for patients of all ages, including family medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics and gynecology .
A key feature of this facility is its comprehensive on-site services, which include X-ray, bone density screening, ultrasound, and lab services . It also houses a location of the Betty Puskar Breast Care Center, offering digital mammography . This integration allows patients to receive coordinated care and easy access to specialists within the WVU Medicine system .
Cheat Lake Urgent Care
For immediate, non-life-threatening medical needs, residents and visitors can turn to Cheat Lake Urgent Care, located in the Pierpont Centre . The clinic is staffed by board-certified physicians specializing in emergency medicine and is equipped with on-site phlebotomy and X-ray services . It treats a variety of conditions, including sore throats, infections, lacerations, sprains, and minor burns, and operates seven days a week with extended hours .
Regional Hospitals
For more complex medical care, Cheat Lake residents have access to two major hospitals in nearby Morgantown . The primary facility is West Virginia University Hospitals, Inc. (Ruby Memorial Hospital) , a nationally recognized academic medical center offering advanced care, including specialized stroke care and joint replacement surgery . Another option is Mon Health Medical Center, which also provides a wide array of medical services to the community .