Overlook at Cacapon State Park

Overlook at Cacapon State Park. Washington Heritage Trail. , Cacapon Mountain, where you are standing, is the westernmost of the pair of north/south mountains that mark the region as belonging to the ridge and valley section of the Appalachians. Looking out from the overlook, you see its eastern partner, Sleepy Creek Mountain. To the south is Morgan County’s highest elevation, 2320 feet, near where Cacapon Mountain crosses into Hampshire County, WV and Frederick County, VA. To the north, the view extends to the Potomac and beyond to Maryland and Pennsylvania making it one of the rare locations where four states can be viewed., The valley between the two mountains is the most populated area of the county and leads to the historic town of Berkeley Springs to the north before ending at the Potomac River. Slightly northeast of your location, Warm Springs Ridge rises and parallels the mountain as both continue to the Potomac. The famed warm mineral springs arise in a very small area of the ridge and emerge in the town center which is now Berkeley Springs State Park., Formed in 1933, the boundaries of the 6000-acre Cacapon State Park were set along the top of this mountain with the park spreading down the eastern slope. The 12-mile mostly flat, fire road Prospect Trail that begins just north of the overlook is easily accessible on horseback and for hikers. The trail ends at Prospect Rock with its spectacular views of the Potomac and Cacapon rivers, a popular spot for countless visitors and locals. Riding to the rock and view was one of George Washington’s favorite activities., Cacapon Mountain is primarily Oriskany sandstone. Impressive outcroppings are visible along the park’s entry road. Recent studies propose that water flow through the mountain is a possible source for the warm springs in town., Both Cacapon and Sleepy Creek mountains are heavily wooded with the mixed conifer and hardwood forests common throughout West Virginia. This type of tree cover makes for variegated greens in spring and summer, blazing colors in fall and occasional green among the bare trees in winter, a four season treasure trove for photographers., The overlook was constructed by the Cacapon State Park Foundation and opened to the public in 2007., (Sidebar) , The Washington Heritage Trail is a 136-mile national scenic byway inspired by the prominent footsteps of George Washington through the three historic counties of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle. Compelling history, spectacular scenery, geologic wonders, recreation and year ‘round activities and festivals are highlighted by 45 historical sites. The trail meanders across mountains and rivers, through forests, farms and orchards as it connects five 18th century towns that remain the center of life today and offer comfortable lodging, unique shopping and fine dining. More information on attractions and services throughout the area is available at each town’s Visitor Center.