The One Covered Bridge Hike Near Pittsburgh That Will Charm You Beyond Words

When's the last time you escaped into nature? Spent the day hiking and listening to nature's melody rather than the sound of bustling traffic and honking horns? If a day among nature sounds like just what the doctor ordered, you might want to make a beeline for this state park that features a spectacular covered bridge hike. You'll also discover plenty of natural gems along the trail, too.

Fill up your backpack with sunscreen, bottled water, and snacks before you embark on the Slippery Rock Gorge Trail at McConnells Mill State Park.

Of course, you'll also want to wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes for the 6.2-mile trail that's rated "more difficult."

But, you'll quickly discover that the challenging hike is more than worth the effort. The trail starts at the same spot as Hell's Hollow Trail, so your best bet is to park at the Hell's Hollow Parking Lot.

Walk up picturesque stairs along the trail that also travels along Slippery Rock Gorge.

You'll come to several picturesque waterfalls along the way. A word of advice, however, you'll probably want to hike the trail when it's relatively dry out. Otherwise, you'll likely encounter muddy and slippery terrain.

Finally, you'll arrive at Eckert Bridge, which provides the perfect setting for selfies and photographs of the stunning...

...Falls. Eckert Bridge marks the halfway mark of your hike, so you'll turn around on the loop and head back to the parking lot.

The trail typically takes hikers a minimum of six hours to complete. However, if you're unsure if you can make it both ways, plan to get a shuttle or a ride back to the parking lot.

Address: 1761 McConnells Mill Road, Portersville, PA 16051

Click here for the website for McConnells Mill State Park. Or, go

here for Facebook.

Have you ever been on this hike near Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! Then, if you love covered bridges, follow this covered bridge trail around Western PA. Click here to read more.