Explore Outdoor Adventures with Almost Heaven Tours in Morgantown, WV
Almost Heaven Tours in Morgantown, West Virginia, opens doors to diverse outdoor experiences—whether gliding across Cheat Lake or hiking the rugged Snake Hill Trails. Perfect for all skill levels, these adventures challenge and engage with practical guidance and an intimate connection to the natural surroundings.
Adventure Tips
Start Early to Beat Afternoon Storms
Weather can turn quickly, especially in summer months. Begin your hike or paddle early for cooler temperatures and stable conditions.
Hydration is Key
Bring at least 2 liters of water per person, particularly on warmer days or longer excursions like the Cheat Lake paddle.
Wear Shoes with Good Traction
Trail terrain ranges from rocky to muddy. Durable footwear with solid grips prevents slips and bumps on uneven surfaces.
Insect Repellent is a Must
Mosquitoes and ticks are common along water and wooded areas. Apply repellent before heading out and reapply as needed.
Explore Outdoor Adventures with Almost Heaven Tours in Morgantown, WV
Morgantown, West Virginia, offers a gateway to rugged outdoor action with Almost Heaven Tours—your practical partner for experiencing the region’s natural grit and grandeur. From winding forest trails to roaring rivers, the landscape here demands respect but also promises adventure in every bend. Almost Heaven Tours specializes in multi-sport experiences, letting you engage with the surroundings through hiking, kayaking, and paddling—all designed to challenge and reward.
One popular excursion is the Cheat Lake Paddle. Covering roughly 6 miles with gentle currents that seem to taunt you onward, this water route offers calm waters punctuated by sudden bursts of wind across open sections. Bring a sturdy kayak or paddleboard; the tour provides guidance but being comfortable on the water makes the trip more enjoyable. The journey is soothing under a canopy of oaks and maples, with waterfowl darting as companions.
For those set on foot, the Snake Hill Trails aren’t just paths, but a conversation with the forest itself. This network totals around 4 miles, with elevation gains peaking close to 400 feet. Terrain varies—rocky steps, soft leaf beds, and occasional muddy stretches after rain. The forest presses close, whispering with wind and birdcalls, while the ridge rewards you with view windows into Morgantown’s valleys and hills. Shoes with solid tread are a must.
Preparation tips from Almost Heaven emphasize hydration and timing. Start early to avoid the high sun and erratic afternoon storms common during summer. Carry layered clothing appropriate for season-changing temperatures—spring mornings can be crisp while summer afternoons warm quickly. Bug spray is your silent companion, keeping the persistent biters at bay.
Each tour approaches nature as a bold entity, never mere backdrop. Rivers dare your balance, forests push your endurance, and weather challenges your resolve. Above all, Almost Heaven Tours balances thrill with safety, ensuring gear and guides ready you for what lies ahead without dampening the raw excitement.
Whether you choose a lazy paddle on Cheat Lake or a steady ascend on Snake Hill, your adventure here is a back-and-forth with the environment’s untamed spirit. Morgantown’s outdoor playground might not be the wildest in the Eastern U.S., but it resists easy conquest—inviting all levels of adventure-seekers to test their limits and recharge in the presence of nature.
Nearby Trips
Adventures near Morgantown
Discover the unique and memorable adventures that make Morgantown special.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult are Almost Heaven Tours’ hikes and paddles for beginners?
Almost Heaven Tours offers adventures suitable for a wide range of skill levels. Beginner hikers and paddlers can manage most routes with basic fitness, but should prepare with proper footwear and hydration. Guides provide safety briefings and tips to boost confidence.
Are guided tours mandatory or can I explore independently after renting equipment?
Though guided tours are recommended for safety and local knowledge, some equipment rentals allow independent exploration. It’s best to check with Almost Heaven Tours about current policies and trail restrictions.
What wildlife might I encounter on these excursions?
Expect sightings of white-tailed deer, great blue herons, snapping turtles, and occasionally wild turkey. Small mammals and a vibrant variety of songbirds animate the forests.
Is it possible to combine paddling and hiking in one day with Almost Heaven Tours?
Yes, many tour options are designed as multi-activity days combining paddling on Cheat Lake and hiking the Snake Hill Trails or nearby forest loops, providing a varied, full-day outdoor experience.
What local history is connected to the trails and waterways here?
Morgantown’s landscapes were shaped by early coal mining and river trade routes. The Cheat Lake area was historically a transportation hub, now giving way to recreation but still showing traces of its industrial past.
Are dogs allowed on Almost Heaven Tours outings?
Pet policies vary based on tour type. Some hikes and paddles permit well-behaved dogs, but it’s best to confirm ahead of time due to wildlife sensitivity and safety concerns.
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Hiking Boots
Keeps feet dry and stable on mixed terrain that can include muddy, rocky, or icy sections.
Hydration Pack or Water Bottles
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during summer paddling or warmer hikes.
Layered Clothing
Allows adjustment to changing temperatures and weather, from chilly mornings to warm afternoons.
Insect Repellent
Protects against mosquitos and ticks commonly found near water and wooded trails.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "The overlook at Snake Hill that reveals the lesser-seen Deckers Creek valley"
- "Quiet paddle spots near the east shoreline of Cheat Lake"
- "Small, unmarked forest springs along the Snake Hill trail network"
Wildlife
- "Eastern box turtles often seen near wetlands"
- "Kingfishers diving swiftly along Cheat Lake’s shallows"
- "Migratory warblers passing through in spring and fall"
History
"The region’s coal mining legacy echoes through abandoned rail beds converted into trails. Cheat Lake itself was formed by damming the Cheat River in the 1920s, now serving primarily recreational and flood control functions."