Cheat Lake is more than just a scenic body of water east of Morgantown — it’s a neighborhood rich in history, local lore, and community spirit. Tucked alongside the Monongahela River and stretching into the lush hills of Monongalia County, the Cheat Lake area offers a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern living. Whether you’re driving down Cheat Road, strolling along the lakeside trails, or chatting with neighbors in a cozy café, you can feel the unique heritage that shapes this cherished corner of West Virginia.
Origins: From Wilderness to Waterside Community
Centuries before Cheat Lake became a renowned destination, the region was dense forestland, home to Native American tribes who traveled along the river for hunting and trade. Settlement by Europeans began in the late 1700s, drawn by the promise of fertile land and timber. At that time, the area was known by its prominent river: the Cheat, a name some say derives from "chute," in reference to its wild, fast-moving waters, while others believe it traces back to an early French explorer—Chiet.
The Cheat River was central to early life here. Its unpredictable currents and rushing rapids shaped not only the land but also the personalities of those who settled near it—bold, resilient, and pioneering. You can still sense these roots in the tight-knit feel of the neighborhood today.
How Cheat Lake Got Its Name
The story behind “Cheat Lake” is a true testament to the area’s evolution. Originally, there was only the Cheat River. In 1925, the construction of the Lake Lynn Dam by the West Penn Power Company transformed the river’s upper stretches into a long, meandering reservoir — what we now know as Cheat Lake. The purpose was hydroelectric power generation, but locals quickly embraced the new lake as a destination for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Over time, the neighborhoods spreading outward from the shore became known collectively as “Cheat Lake.” The dam itself — now officially called the Cheat Lake Dam — remains a functional and historical centerpiece just off Morgan Run Road.
Milestones in Cheat Lake’s Development
Cheat Lake’s growth mirrors the broader trends of Morgantown’s history, with a bit of its own unique flair. Key milestones include:
- 1925: Lake Lynn Dam is completed, creating Cheat Lake and sparking waterfront property development.
- 1940s–1960s: Summer cottages pop up, catering to Morgantown families seeking a retreat. Some of these original lake houses remain, nestled along roads like Lake Lynn Road and Cheat Road.
- 1970s–1980s: Cheat Lake Elementary School opens on Old Cheat Road, anchoring the community for growing families. Around this time, the region begins to see year-round residents and more substantial homes.
- 1994: The Cheat Lake Trail is opened following the old railroad grade, quickly becoming a focal point for outdoor enthusiasts. Entrances can be found off Morgans Run Road and at the north end, near Sunset Beach Marina.
Today, Cheat Lake boasts thriving residential developments like Greystone on the Cheat and the Bluffs at Cheat Lake, blending new construction with the area’s lush, wooded landscape.
Landmarks and Institutions That Make Cheat Lake Special
Several landmarks stand as testaments to the neighborhood’s history and ongoing vitality:
- Cheat Lake Dam (Lake Lynn Dam): Besides its crucial hydroelectric role, the dam is a popular spot for fishing and sightseeing. The spillway, with its churning water, is almost hypnotic on a sunny day.
- Sunset Beach Marina: A community hub off Sunset Beach Road, the marina has been the site of family outings, fishing tournaments, and summer concerts for decades.
- Cheat Lake Park and Trail: Following the river’s edge for nearly five miles, the Cheat Lake Trail offers spectacular views of cliffs, waterfalls, and dense forests — a testament to the region’s natural beauty and historical roots as a transportation corridor.
- Chestnut Ridge Park: Only a short drive east on Route 857, this park has playgrounds, camping, and hiking trails — a favorite for families and groups seeking to connect with the land’s rugged, Appalachian heritage.
- St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church: Located on nearby Tyrone Road, this historic church has served generations of residents, offering a window into Cheat Lake’s spiritual and social life.
Streets and Spots That Tell Tales
Cheat Road (Route 857) winds like a ribbon through the heart of the Cheat Lake community, passing homes old and new, local businesses, and wooded glens dappled with morning light. Take a turn down Morgan Run Road or Lake Lynn Road, and you’ll discover quiet spots where the lake sparkles through the trees, or maybe a neighbor fishing from their backyard dock.
Old Cheat Road, now bypassed by newer routes, is lined with some of the area’s oldest homes—a living showcase of architecture from the earliest lakeside pioneers to contemporary designs that reflect the growth of Morgantown.
Evolution from Cottages to Contemporary Living
Cheat Lake’s reputation as “Morgantown’s playground” is well-earned: generations have flocked here for recreation and respite. What began as a community of simple summer cabins has blossomed into a thriving neighborhood with year-round life.
Modern institutions have only added to the area’s appeal:
- *Cheat Lake Elementary School*: A pillar of family life and local pride.
- *New waterfront restaurants and shops*: Especially along Cheat Road and the lakeshore.
- *Expanding lake access*: Through public ramps and marinas, ensuring everyone can enjoy this pristine body of water.
Despite growth, the natural beauty and warm spirit remain unchanged. Residents take pride in preserving green spaces, keeping the waters clean, and welcoming newcomers with a smile and a story about the “good old days.”
What Makes Cheat Lake Enduringly Special
Ask anyone in Cheat Lake what makes it unique, and you’ll hear about more than the beautiful scenery. It’s the festivals at the marina, the rush of spring waters beneath the dam, the laughter echoing off docks on a summer evening. It’s the way neighbors help each other during tough winters, or gather for a local chicken roast on a sunny fall afternoon.
The Cheat Lake area isn’t just a place on the map — it’s a collection of stories, rooted in a remarkable landscape, and carried forward by the people who call it home. Whether you’re visiting for a day or settling in for a lifetime, you’ll find that the spirit of Cheat Lake runs deep, just like its waters.