Summersville Lake Lighthouse
Ascend 122 steps in a unique lighthouse, once a wind turbine, for breathtaking views of Summersville Lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Summersville Lake Lighthouse
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend 122 steps in a unique lighthouse, once a wind turbine, for breathtaking views of Summersville Lake.
"The view was so awesome up there! It is worth taking the time to see."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With 122 steps, comfortable footwear is a must for the climb! :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Buy Tickets at Gift Shop
Admission is $7 per person, purchased at the onsite gift shop. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Lighthouse Climb
Summersville Lake Lighthouse
Ascend 122 steps to the top of this unique lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of Summersville Lake.
Summersville Lake Vista
Summersville Lake Lighthouse observation deck
Enjoy unparalleled views of the vast, clear waters and surrounding natural beauty of Summersville Lake.
Unique Lighthouse Origin Story
Summersville Lake Lighthouse
Discover the fascinating history of this lighthouse, originally a wind turbine that was repurposed and rebuilt.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climb for Incredible Views
Check Tour Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With 122 steps, comfortable footwear is a must for the climb! :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Buy Tickets at Gift Shop
Admission is $7 per person, purchased at the onsite gift shop. :admission_tickets:
🌅 Aim for Sunset Views
The views are stunning, especially around sunset, but check closing times. :city_sunset:
💧 Bring Water
The climb can be tiring, so staying hydrated is key. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With 122 steps, comfortable footwear is a must for the climb! :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Buy Tickets at Gift Shop
Admission is $7 per person, purchased at the onsite gift shop. :admission_tickets:
🌅 Aim for Sunset Views
The views are stunning, especially around sunset, but check closing times. :city_sunset:
💧 Bring Water
The climb can be tiring, so staying hydrated is key. :droplet:
💡 Learn the History
Ask about the lighthouse's unique past as a wind turbine. :bulb:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Summersville Lake Lighthouse, particularly the incredible panoramic views from the top and its unique history as a repurposed wind turbine. The affordable admission price is a major plus, though some note the climb can be strenuous and wish for more nearby amenities like restrooms.
"I got there around sunset and the lighthouse was closed for tours for the day but it was a really cool random spot and would be fun to climb. It is landlocked, but Summersville Lake is nearby. Also when I drove by there after dark, the lighthouse was shining its light!"
Elisabeth Bloodworth
"Really neat light house with a neat story on how it got to be. We we're told that it was an old wind turbine. I think fell off a truck during transport. The owner of the campground bought it. They had some welding students put in the 122 steps to the top. It took 2 cranes to get it upright. It's now a working registered light house. The view was so awesome up there!"
kim romine
"It was so much fun! You need to purchase a ticket in the giftshop. It was 7$ per person. It is 10 stories high so lots of steps. The view is beautiful. We really enjoyed it."
Samantha Woods
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The lighthouse is located near Summersville Lake. While it's landlocked, it offers fantastic views of the lake. Driving is the most common way to access it, with parking available nearby. Check local signage for the best route upon arrival.
Yes, there is parking available near the lighthouse, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! The lighthouse is a distinct attraction with its own entrance and viewing opportunities, though it is situated to overlook Summersville Lake.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $7 per person, which grants you access to climb the lighthouse. Tickets are purchased at the onsite gift shop.
Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check in advance or arrive earlier in the day, as tours might close for the day.
No, advance booking is generally not required. Tickets are purchased on-site at the gift shop.
The lighthouse features 122 steps to the top, so it requires physical ability to climb. It may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is climbing the 122 steps to the top for incredible panoramic views of Summersville Lake and the surrounding landscape. You can also learn about its unique history.
A visit typically takes about 1-2 hours, allowing time for the climb, enjoying the views, and exploring the gift shop.
Visitors have noted a need for nearby restrooms, so it's a good idea to plan accordingly or use facilities before arriving.
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of other visitors during your climb. The views from the top are particularly photogenic.
It's a fascinating tale! The lighthouse was originally a wind turbine that fell off a truck during transport. A campground owner purchased it, and welding students helped construct the steps to turn it into a working lighthouse.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The primary facility is a gift shop where you can purchase tickets. There are no extensive dining options directly at the lighthouse itself. It's recommended to bring your own snacks or plan to eat at nearby establishments.
While there might not be designated picnic areas directly at the lighthouse, the surrounding areas near Summersville Lake often provide scenic spots for picnics. Check local regulations for specific areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon, especially leading up to sunset, offers beautiful golden hour lighting for capturing the lighthouse and the lake. Daytime provides clear views, but can be harsher light.
You can capture the unique structure of the lighthouse itself, the panoramic views of Summersville Lake from the top, and the surrounding natural landscape. The interior staircase also offers interesting photographic opportunities.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary by location and park rules. It's best to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring water and ensure everyone is wearing comfortable shoes for the climb. While there aren't extensive amenities like playgrounds, the spectacular views of Summersville Lake provide a great backdrop for family photos and a memorable experience. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid peak crowds and ensure you can purchase tickets.
💰 Budget Travelers
It's a relatively quick visit, making it easy to fit into a day trip without a large time commitment. Pack your own snacks and drinks to save on additional costs, and enjoy a memorable attraction that won't break the bank. The unique history adds an educational element to this affordable adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lighthouse's Remarkable Journey
With the help of welding students, the tower was meticulously re-erected, and an impressive 122 steps were constructed to allow visitors to ascend to the top. This collaborative effort turned the industrial relic into a functional, registered lighthouse, offering a testament to ingenuity and community spirit. The journey from a fallen turbine to a working lighthouse is a key part of its charm and a story visitors often share.
Experiencing the Climb and Views
From the observation deck, you can truly appreciate the vastness and striking blue color of Summersville Lake, one of the deepest lakes in the United States. The unobstructed vistas make it an ideal spot for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. Many visitors describe the view as 'awesome' and 'beautiful,' making the climb well worth the effort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit