10/06/2026
You already know that changes dramatically between summer and winter—the biggest change is its seasonal drawdown. It’s a winding reservoir on the Elk River near Sutton in central West Virginia, with about 1,440 acres of water, 14 miles of lake, and 40 miles of shoreline at its seasonal recreation level. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages it primarily for flood control. Fall also brings wooded hillsides, autumn color, and a quieter setting for walking and enjoying the scenery. The Corps lists 31 trail systems around the project, including more than 30 miles in the Elk River Wildlife Management Area.
