West Virginia is known as the “Wild and Wonderful” state and Morgantown is no exception. Nestled between the Appalachian Mountains and the Monongahela River, the city is within minutes of scenic trails with breath-taking views and beautiful waters with endless opportunities. Natives and visitors love to take advantage of the state’s beauty by exploring it through an endless array of outdoor recreational activities. Here is a short and sweet guide to the top five recreational areas around Morgantown and the best activities for each. All distances are calculated from the Mountainlair’s address at 1550 University Avenue.

1. Cooper’s Rock State Forest

Cooper’s Rock is 21 miles from Morgantown, which translates into about a half hour drive. It is best for hiking, mountain biking, and camping. There are 21 hiking trails at Cooper’s Rock. The most popular trail is Ravens Rock Trail. It is one and a half miles and ends at the Ravens Rock overlook, which is a beautiful view of the Cheat River canyon. For more information, check out http://www.coopersrockstateforest.com.

2. Cheat Lake Park and Trail

It is 11 miles and about a 25-minute drive from Morgantown to Morgan Run Road, which has public access to Cheat Lake. At this public access point, there is a four and a half mile trail that is perfect for walking, running and biking. There is also an area to launch boats, kayaks and canoes. Cheat Lake is a great place to fish, as well. This location is also great for swimming. Grab your unicorn floaty and jump in!

3. Mon River Trails

This trail network totals 48 miles and is designated a National Recreation Trail. There are four trails: the Deckers Creek Trail, the Mon River Trail North, the Mon River Trail South, and the Caperton Trail. The closest one to Morgantown is the Mon River Trail South, which starts at Morgantown’s city limits and continues for 18 miles until Pricketts Fork State Park. This trail system is best for walking, running, biking, and cross-country skiing. Parts of the Deckers Creek Trail and the Caperton Trail are paved, as well. For more information, check out http://www.montrails.org/index.html.

4. Bull Run Road (aka Blue Hole)

This is a popular hang out spot for college students and locals. It is 15 miles and about a half hour drive from Morgantown to Bull Run Road in Masontown, WV. But that is just the beginning of the journey to Blue Hole. It is probably another half hour drive on this road until you reach the famous Blue Hole Bridge. This is a rough drive that people without four-wheel drive should not attempt. This area is best for swimming, fishing, and hanging out with friends.

5. Little Indian Creek Conservation Area

Little Indian Creek Road is about 10 miles and a 20-minute drive from Morgantown. This area is heavily forested and its main attraction is public hunting land. Turkeys, squirrels, and deer are the most popular game at this location. There is also a small, fishing pond at Little Indian Creek Conservation Area. For more information, check out http://mdc7.mdc.mo.gov/applications/moatlas/AreaSu....

All of these locations are beautiful spots in West Virginia with different activities to offer that residents and visitors are able to enjoy. Please treat an area kindly and leave it better than you found it so that others can continue to enjoy it, too.