Cheat Lake – Water Sports, Shoreline Trails and History

Cheat Lake combines expansive stretches of water with active experiences along the shore and an unusual history of its creation. The artificial reservoir covers 1,730 acres. It was created in 1925 by damming the Cheat River for a hydroelectric power plant. Those looking to combine nature, activity and traces of history on their trip will find several different focal points to include in their daily planning.

Water Activities at Cheat Lake

Cheat Lake offers 13 miles of calm waters for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing. Boating, fishing and other water sports are also possible. Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and crappie are listed as potential catches for anglers. Walleye and yellow perch are also found here in connection with ice fishing. This means the lake can be enjoyed in very different ways depending on the time of year and your personal interests, without every day having to look the same.

There is also a specific starting point for motorized or more active pursuits: At Sunset Beach Marina, jet ski rentals, water skiing, wakeboarding and other equipment are available at Cheat Lake. Access to Cheat Lake is via a boat ramp or seasonal docks at the northern end, directly above the Lake Lynn Dam. The lake can also be reached through the backwater areas of Morgans Run and Rubles Run. If you are choosing your vacation rental or vacation home primarily based on planned water activities, you can take these different access points into account when planning your trip.

Shoreline Trail, Playground and Daily Planning

Cheat Lake Park and Trail offers a different way to experience the area. The park includes a 4.5-mile trail that runs along the shore of Lake Lynn on an abandoned railroad bed. There is also a children's playground. For a day with children, the trail can be combined with a play break; those who would rather plan an active outing without water sports have an independent activity to add to their itinerary.

Take a seasonal restriction into account when planning your trip: The swimming area at Millstone Beach in Cheat Lake Park has been closed since June 17, 2026, for the remainder of the 2026 recreation season. This information applies to the specified swimming area. Other activities described at Cheat Lake, such as boating, fishing, kayaking or canoeing, are not automatically included in this closure.

Historical Perspectives Around the Lake

The history of Cheat Lake extends beyond its creation as a reservoir. It partially covers land where an iron industry flourished in and around Ices Ferry during the 19th century. As a result, the landscape offers not only water-based and recreational opportunities but also a glimpse into the area's former industrial use. This aspect is particularly appealing to travelers who enjoy combining nature experiences with regional history.

Which Accommodation Fits Your Travel Plans?

When searching for a vacation rental or vacation home in Cheat Lake, your travel profile should be the deciding factor.

If you would like to explore other places in the same selection, you can also look at Westover and Morgantown.

For the overarching travel overview: Monongalia.