Pirates Cove Trail & Scenic Overlook

This two-mile out-and-back hike offers some of the prettiest views in the state within Summersville Lake State Park. Begin at the trailhead swing (a classic “Almost Heaven” photo op), then follow the trail through shaded forest to a tucked-away waterfall and the rocky Pirates Cove shoreline. Climb the metal staircase to reach the scenic lake overlook – you might just catch some climbers scaling the cliffs!

A woman sits on a wooden swing holding a small dog, surrounded by tall trees. The swing frame has the words almost heaven written on it, with a wooden cutout of West Virginia nearby. Sunlight filters through the forest.