People around West Virginia are able to swing into summer thanks to students from Nicholas County Career and Technical Center and the state Department of Tourism.
Those visiting Coopers Rock can be among those doing the swinging.
The Nicholas County students were tasked with building nine supersized wooden swing sets where you can take in the views at some of the most scenic spots in the state.
“The Nicholas County students did an amazing job with this project — we couldn’t have imagined a more perfect backdrop to add to these scenic spots,” said West Virginia Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “So much hard work and skill went into each one, and we are excited to share them with the world ….”
As a pilot project, one swing was placed in a scenic location or overlook in each of the state’s nine travel regions. The swing sites were strategically positioned after analyzing over 100,000 social media posts from across the state to find some of West Virginia’s most beloved vistas, according to a Tourism press release.
The first nine swings can be found in the following spots:
- Mountaineer Country: Coopers Rock State Forest
From the parking lot closest to the main overlook and the gift shop, walk on the cobblestone path farthest to the left. Pass the pavilion and the swing will be to your left, with a lush forest backdrop.
- Eastern Panhandle: Cacapon Resort State Park
Drive or hike to the Cacapon Mountain Overlook. This swing, located just steps from the parking area and beside the observation deck, has mountains as far as the eye can see as its backdrop.
- Hatfield-McCoy Mountains: Buffalo Mountain Trail – Death Rock
Take the Buffalo Mountain Trail System to get to the Death Rock Overlook. The swing is positioned high above the mountain town of Williamson, with one of the best views the region has to offer.
- Metro Valley: Charleston
Once on the lawn of the University of Charleston, turn left to walk toward the boathouse. The swing is located adjacent to the fire pit with a direct view of the State Capitol.
- Mid-Ohio Valley: Fort Boreman Scenic Overlook
Overlooking the scenic valley formed by the confluence of the Little Kanawha and Ohio rivers at Parkersburg, this swing offers a bird’s-eye view of the Mid-Ohio Valley.
- Mountain Lakes: Stonewall Resort State Park
Once on the resort property, continue on State Park Road. Pass the lodge on your right and continue on to Lightburn’s Restaurant at The Palmer Course. Make your way behind the clubhouse to find the swing with a sweeping backdrop of the lake and mountains.
- New River-Greenbrier Valley: Babcock State Park
Perfectly positioned in front of the Glade Creek Grist Mill, this swing can be found near the park office, just steps from one of the state’s most photographed spots.
- Northern Panhandle: Wheeling Heritage Port
Overlooking the iconic Wheeling Suspension Bridge and the Ohio River, the swing at Wheeling Heritage Port is located on a grassy patch just off the walkway to the river.
- Potomac Highlands: Blackwater Falls State Park
Located just off the trail to the main overlook, snap a picture on the swing with a backdrop of the spectacular falls in the distance.
For more information about West Virginia and to plan a trip, visit www.WVtourism.com.
