Cheat Canyon, Natural canyon in Preston County, West Virginia, US
Cheat Canyon is a gorge stretching roughly 10 miles through the Allegheny Mountains, marked by steep forested slopes that rise about 1,200 feet from river to rim. The waterway features intense rapids ranging from Class IV to Class V depending on flow conditions.
Anabaptist settlers known as the Dunkards established communities in the region beginning in 1772 and shaped the area's early settlement history. Over the centuries, the valley remained largely remote, used primarily by river travelers and local inhabitants.
The river draws paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts who gather annually to celebrate and compete in traditional races through its waters. These gatherings reflect how the canyon remains a focal point for communities that value its wild character.
Visitors should know this section is meant for experienced paddlers, and conditions become increasingly demanding at higher water levels. Those interested in exploring should check local conditions and only venture out during safe circumstances.
The valley is home to the rare Cheat threetooth snail, a species found nowhere else on Earth. This tiny mollusk survives only near rocky outcrops and represents a remarkable biological treasure of the region.
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