Entrance sign
Go left to get to the overlook
Ty and I went to Coopers Rock on a beautiful fall day. 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 well marked), but we explored one of the "rock cities." We had the area to ourselves.
That's a big rock!
Layers of stone
A cave
Geology over time
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 if wouldn't be good for my feet, especially my right foot. I might have fallen. So, I looked for a a hike that would be more permissible with my Plantar fasciitis. The Reservoir loop fit the bill. It was a 0.7 mile loop that encircled the reservoir. We met a botanist along the way.
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.
The resident fish
Reservoir Loop Trail
