Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway | Park City

Information

Landmark: Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway
City: Park City
Country: USA Utah
Continent: North America

Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway, Park City, USA Utah, North America

Coopers Rock State Forest is a protected natural area located in Monongalia County, West Virginia, near the city of Morgantown.

Visual Characteristics

The forest features sandstone cliffs that rise approximately 50 feet above the Cheat River. The dominant vegetation consists of mixed hardwood forests, including oak, maple, and pine species. Rock formations are characterized by exposed sandstone outcrops and talus slopes.

Location & Access Logistics

Coopers Rock State Forest is situated approximately 15 miles east of Morgantown, West Virginia, accessible via Interstate 68. Take Exit 23 for Coopers Rock. The main entrance is directly off US Route 68. Ample parking is available at designated lots near the overlook and trailheads. Public transportation options are limited; private vehicle is the primary access method.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The geological formations at Coopers Rock are primarily composed of the Conemaugh Group sandstones, dating back to the Pennsylvanian period. The area's name originates from a legend involving a cooper who supposedly made barrels on the cliffs. Ecologically, it represents a mature Appalachian hardwood forest ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include hiking on marked trails such as the Montani Trail and the Overlook Trail. Rock climbing and rappelling are permitted in designated areas. Photography of the Cheat River Gorge from the main overlook is a primary activity. Fishing is available in the Cheat River, requiring a West Virginia fishing license.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the main overlook area. Picnic tables and shelters are provided. Shade is abundant throughout the forested areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is intermittent and unreliable within the forest. No on-site food vendors are present; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer optimal lighting conditions due to the angle of the sun. The best months for visiting are typically May through October, offering pleasant temperatures and foliage. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A local legend states that a cooper, fleeing from the law, hid his wares and himself on the cliffs, giving the location its name. A verified historical fact is that the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in developing the park's infrastructure in the 1930s.