### Pilotage Plan: Morgantown, WV to Wheeling, WV**Starting Point: Morgantown, WV** **Ending Point: Wheeling, WV** **Type of Boater: Family-friendly recreational cruising**#### Route OverviewThe journey from Morgantown to Wheeling spans approximately 55 nautical miles along the Monongahela River, offering a delightful mix of scenery, historical landmarks, and recreational opportunities. It's an excellent route for family-oriented recreational cruisers, particularly for those who appreciate tranquil waters and picturesque vistas. #### Key Considerations1. **Weather & Safety**: Always check local weather forecasts before departure. Conditions on the river can change rapidly. Be particularly vigilant of wind speeds and potential storms, especially in the late afternoon. Ensure your life jackets, communication devices, and first aid kits are readily accessible and in good condition.2. **Hazards**: Keep an eye out for submerged objects or shifting hazards, especially after rainfall. Areas with logging operations or active commercial shipping can present challenges; maintaining a safe distance is advisable.#### Points of Interest Along the Route- **Coopers Rock State Forest** (Approx. 15 miles from Morgantown): A great stopping point for adventure seekers interested in hiking or picnicking. Renowned for its stunning vistas, don't miss the chance to stretch your legs while enjoying the breathtaking views.- **Grafton, WV** (About 30 miles downriver): A small town rich in history. You can take a break here for refreshments or check out local shops and eateries. The Weston State Hospital nearby has a unique history and is a point of interest.- **Fallen Timber Hollow**: An enchanting spot where the riverbanks become wildflower meadows, perfect for a quick, scenic break. - **Petersburg** (Near the halfway point): The area hosts a lovely public park that allows for dockage and a picnic area with restrooms, a good spot to take a lunch break.- **Cameron, WV** (Just before reaching Wheeling): Another picturesque town with historical charm – it has amenities and boat launches.#### Navigational Considerations- **Navigation Aids**: The Monongahela River is well-marked with buoyed channels. Look for prominent flashing lights along the way, especially near bridges. Pay special attention to the navigation charts provided by NOAA to help you follow the marked channels to avoid shallow or hazardous areas.- **Local Regulations**: Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations, including speed limits, no-wake zones, and restricted areas, especially around marinas and fishing camps. In addition, make sure your registration and safety equipment comply with West Virginia state laws.#### Shelter OptionsShould the weather take a turn for the worse, the following areas provide good shelter:- **Morgantown Marina**: A reliable starting point with shelter for your boat. - **Grafton Harbors**: Offers good protection for boats and is a safe haven in case of bad weather.- **Wheeling Marina**: The final destination, prepared to dock and secure your vessel comfortably while looking out for signs of inclement weather.#### Recommended Apps- **Savvy Navvy**: Excellent for navigation, with real-time updates and a user-friendly interface.- **Weather Underground**: Offers localized weather updates.- **MarineTraffic**: For tracking vessels on the river—useful for awareness of commercial traffic.- **Navionics**: Provides detailed charts for inland waters, such as the Monongahela River.#### ConclusionThe journey from Morgantown to Wheeling is not only an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Monongahela River, but also to engage with its history and tranquil environment. As you navigate, make safety your top priority while still setting aside time to explore the unique offerings along the way. With the blend of picturesque sights and family-friendly accessibility, this route promises to be an enriching experience for any boater. Enjoy your adventure!