The tiny hamlet of Great Cacapon is located along the Potomac just upstream from its juncture with the Cacapon. The community and its rivers are part of the view from Panorama Overlook. Artifacts of a Native American settlement have been found in the area and, in the mid-18th century, settlers in the region were captured by Native Americans.

Washington records stopping at “Great Cacapehon” during his original surveying trip of this area in 1748. He surveyed in the area in 1750 and 51. Washington owned prized Potomac riverfront described by him as “in the shape of a horseshoe; the river running almost around it.” He particularly valued the lush black walnut growth on the 240-acre tract. Today, Washington’s acreage, located near the former B&O railroad stop at Doe Gully is inaccessible except by river and is in private hands.

Attractions in Great Cacapon include a sportsman access to the wild and scenic Cacapon River on the east side of town at the base of the historic 1937 Parker Through Truss Bridge over the Cacapon River. The area along the Cacapon River is a prime ecotourism site for Morgan County.

The highway, WV9, twists and winds along the Cacapon River for nearly 20 miles west from Great Cacapon to Paw Paw crossing over the Cacapon River again via the historic 1916 Daniel Luten Bridge at Largent.  The highway is among the most scenic roads in the state especially prized by motorcyclists  Three river access points for fishing and boating are available and marked along this stretch of road.

If you go: Located along WV 9 west of Berkeley Springs; More information: 304-258-9147 • www.berkeleysprings.com