Lost River (Cacapon River tributary)

The Lost River is a 12.1-mile-long (19.5 km) tributary of the Cacapon River, located in Hardy County, West Virginia, United States. It is notable for its unusual hydrological feature: it disappears underground for a significant portion of its course before re-emerging as the Cacapon River.

The river originates in the mountains of western Hardy County, flowing generally eastward. The "Lost River" name stems from the portion of the river's course where it enters a series of sinkholes and underground caverns near the community of Wardensville. Here, the surface flow of the river ceases, seemingly disappearing into the limestone bedrock.

The Lost River then flows underground for several miles. It is understood that the water travels through a complex network of underground passages and channels. Dye tracing experiments have confirmed that the Lost River resurfaces approximately 2 miles away as the Cacapon River near the town of Lost River, West Virginia.

The area surrounding the Lost River's disappearance and reappearance is characterized by karst topography, a landscape shaped by the dissolution of soluble rocks such as limestone. This geological formation is responsible for the sinkholes, caves, and underground drainage systems that define the Lost River's unique hydrology.

The Lost River is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking (in the sections above the sinkholes). The surrounding area offers scenic views and opportunities for exploring the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. The Lost River State Park is nearby, although not directly adjacent to the river itself.