Cheat Lake is a picturesque 1,730-acre man-made reservoir located in the northern part of Monongalia County, West Virginia. It is about 10 miles east of downtown Morgantown and offers a serene escape with its calm waters and surrounding forested hillsides. The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Cheat Lake Park, situated at the north end of the lake, provides family-friendly amenities such as a playground, picnic areas, and a swimming beach. The park is accessible via a 4.5-mile hiking and biking trail that runs along the lake's shoreline.
Cheat Lake is known for its diverse water activities, including power boating, jet skiing, and water skiing on the main drag, while the backwaters offer quieter spots for swimming and canoeing. The lake's scenic beauty and recreational opportunities make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The area around Cheat Lake is also home to several marinas, including Sunset Beach Marina and Edgewater Marina, which offer boat launches, rentals, and dining options with stunning views of the lake.