West Virginia’s Newest Almost Heaven Swing

“Almost Heaven,” a phrase embraced by West Virginians since John Denver’s song “Take Me Home, Country Roads” was released in 1971. Upon release, West Virginia was quick to make this an unofficial anthem as it depicted the beauty, scenery, and hospitality of the Mountain State. In 2014, Governor Earl Ray Tomblin declared the song one of the state’s official songs, along with “The West Virginia Hills” by Mrs. Ellen King and H. E. Engle, “West Virginia, My Home Sweet Home” by Julian G. Hearne, Jr., and “This Is My West Virginia” by Iris Bell.

“Almost heaven,” the memorable opening line of “Country Roads,” stands out – not just for West Virginians but for people around the world. In 2018, when West Virginia launched the “Almost Heaven” campaign to showcase the state’s unparalleled beauty and people, Governor Jim Justice remarked, “That’s really how we’re known all over the world. We are almost heaven.”

The Almost Heaven swings debuted across the state on June 20, 2022, more commonly known as West Virginia Day. There were 9 original locations. In 2023, they added 8 additional swings. Currently, there are 28.

On July 12, 2024, the Huntington Area CVB and Greater Huntington Park & Recreation District in partnership with the West Virginia Department of Tourism hosted the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Huntington’s own Almost Heaven Swing in Rotary Park. “It’s a gorgeous view of Huntington from up here, and kind of one of our hidden jewels, I think, that people aren’t as familiar with,” said Kathy McKenna, Executive Director of GHPRD.

Visitors can enter Rotary Park from US-60. Signage will guide you to the trailhead parking lot, and the swing is about a 200-yard walk from there. The path to the swing is paved making it fully accessible. Be sure to tag us in your photos for a chance to be featured on our social media! You can find us on Facebook and Instagram.

Click here for a complete listing of Almost Heaven swings.