More scenic stops for summer as W.Va. adds to “Almost Heaven” Swing Trail

SPENCER, W.Va. — Travelers exploring West Virginia this summer will have even more opportunities to capture picture-perfect moments, as the number of “Almost Heaven” photo-ops across the state has grown to 43.

The W.Va. Department of Tourism announced the expansion of the swing trail, encouraging visitors to snap photos and share them on social media using the hashtag #AlmostHeaven. The handmade wooden swings, often placed against the backdrop of the state’s most scenic landscapes, have become a popular attraction since their introduction.

Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby said the two new swing locations were ideally suited for the department’s mission.

“There continues to be an outpouring of interest and excitement in our locally-crafted Almost Heaven swings,” Ruby said.

“West Virginia is home to the most beautiful landscapes, and I invite travelers to experience a screen-free summer in Almost Heaven. It’s not too late to plan your mountain escape!”

Two new swings were recently installed at Cedar Lakes Conference Center near Ripley, West Virginia, and Charles Fork Lake near Spencer, West Virginia.

The Cedar Lakes swing is situated near the chapel on the peaceful lakeside grounds of the conference center. Accessible via Future Farmers of America Drive, visitors can park in nearby lots for an easy walk to the spot.

Near Spencer, the Charles Fork Lake swing offers a panoramic view of the water. It’s located just off Charles Fork Road, with a short trail leading to the swing from the parking area.

The growing trail of swings offers both locals and out-of-state visitors a way to enjoy the state’s natural beauty and share it with the world.

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History of the “Almost Heaven” Swings in West Virginia

The “Almost Heaven” swings were first introduced by the W.Va. Department of Tourism in 2020 as part of an initiative to promote in-state travel and showcase the state’s stunning natural scenery.

The concept was simple yet impactful: install handcrafted wooden swings at scenic overlooks and natural landmarks throughout the state, offering visitors a place to pause, reflect, and capture the moment.

Each swing bears a small plaque with the words “Almost Heaven,” a nod to the iconic John Denver song that has long been associated with the Mountain State.

What began as a handful of swings placed in popular destinations quickly gained traction on social media. As travelers began sharing their swing selfies using the #AlmostHeaven hashtag, the campaign gained momentum, driving both engagement and tourism.

The swings soon became a viral sensation, drawing road-trippers, nature lovers, and content creators eager to discover and document each unique location.

The swings are built by local artisans, adding a personal, West Virginia-made touch to the project. Their construction is intentionally rustic and inviting, blending into the natural environment while providing a comfortable seat to take in the view. From mountaintop vistas and quiet lakesides to parks and small-town overlooks, each swing tells a story of the place where it rests.

Beyond their role as Instagram-worthy stops, the swings have helped draw attention to lesser-known corners of the state. By encouraging exploration off the beaten path, the project supports local businesses and communities that benefit from increased tourism traffic.

The state has continued to expand the swing trail in response to public interest and requests from towns and tourism partners across the state. Each new installation is carefully selected to offer a view and enhance West Virginia’s reputation as a top destination for outdoor recreation and scenic travel.

Now with 43 swings and counting, the “Almost Heaven” trail has become a beloved part of the West Virginia travel experience — a symbol of serenity, beauty, and state pride.

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Go here to find a map of Almost Heaven Swings:

West Virginia’s Almost Heaven Swings