The Hike To This Secluded Beach Near Pittsburgh Is Positively Amazing

A trip to the beach is perfect all year around. Sure, during the cooler months, we can't jump into the water, but we certainly can grab a seat on the soft sand to enjoy the quiet of the season. Summer means cooling off in the cool water. You can reach this beautiful, secluded beach on a short beach hike near Pittsburgh.

Raccoon Creek State Park, just a half an hour from downtown Pittsburgh, provides an idyllic backdrop for a day outdoors - whether it's the dawn of spring or the middle of winter.

If you're up for a short but challenging hike that promises a huge payoff - a beautiful sand beach - set off on The Beach Trail.

At just over a quarter of a mile, the Beach Trail begins at The D Loop in the campground and leads you straight to the sandy shore of Raccoon Lake.

Follow the orange blazes that lead the way of the Beach Trail. If you're visiting during the summer season, which begins in late May, bring your bathing suit, towel, and beach chair along.

Summer also means the concession stand, which serves snacks and drinks, will be open. Or, you can bring your own picnic.

Regardless of when you visit, you'll definitely want to take a stroll along the sandy beach, where you'll also find a volleyball net.

After your trek along the Beach Trail, consider checking out one of the other trails. For an easy hike, for example, embark on the Art Witt Trail that leads through a pine forest.

Click here for the official website of Raccoon Creek State Park. Or, go here for Facebook.

Do you have a favorite beach hike near Pittsburgh? Tell us about it in the comments! When you've got that urge to escape to the ocean but can't get away, head to one of these five beaches near Pittsburgh that will remind you of the ocean.