Entrance sign
Go left to get to the overlook
It was a beautiful fall day when Ty and I went to Coopers Rock. It took us about two hours to get there. Traveling west is usually pleasant, even on the interstates. I stopped a few times along the way to let Ty pee and stretch his legs. I got refreshments. We arrived about midday. My first stop was the visitor's center.
Sweeping across the gorge
1200 feet above the gorge
The iconic West Virginia swing
Underneath the overlook, there is a network of massive sandstone cliffs, boulder fields, narrow crevices, and small cave-like rock shelters. Not sure what trail I was on (they weren't always well marked), but I found plenty of rocks to explore. We had the area to ourselves, too.
That's a big rock!
Layers of stone
A cave
Geology over time
Crevices in the rocks
The most scenic area in Coopers Rock National Forest may have been the reservoir. I was disappointed that my foot pain prohibited me from hiking the Underlook and Raven Rock trails. I tried, but determined it wouldn't be good for my feet, especially my right foot. I might have fallen. Not to mention my foot would have hurt like hell. So, I looked for a a hike that would be more suitable for my Plantar fasciitis. The Reservoir loop fit the bill. It was a 0.7 mile loop that encircled the reservoir.
Quiet and secluded
2 to 3 acre reservoir
Just about every place along the loop offered spectacular views of the reservoir. Between the trees, grasses, water, and reflections, the colors were an absolute treat for the eyes. In another week or so, the reservoir would be even more breath-taking. I allowed Ty a quick dip into the water. He appreciated it. We met a botanist (from WVU) along the way.
The resident fish
Reservoir Loop Trail
