Pittsburgh is a bustling city with something going on all of the time. All of that busyness can get a bit overwhelming at times. However, what makes our beloved city so amazing is we have quite a few places where we can feel as though we're a million miles away from it all. When you just want to spend some quiet time among nature but don't want to travel far, you'll likely fall head over heels for this loop trail in Pittsburgh.
It's probably fair to say that most Pittsburghers have visited Schenley Park at least once. After all, it boasts a ton of amenities - from a pool to a playground.
It also has some of the best hiking in Pennsylvania.
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Even if you're not an avid hiker, you'll find that the 456-acre park's trails are perfect for leisurely strolls that will take you far from the noise of the big city.
Do you agree this is the best loop trail in Pittsburgh? What do you think are the best hikes near Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! Hiking is the perfect way to explore our beautiful city, don't you think? For another adventure and amazing views, follow the Steel Valley Trail. Find a comprehensive list of hiking trails in Pennsylvania on All Trails.
Where's your favorite kind of place to hike? In the cool of the mountains? Deep in the woods of a local state park? Or, do you prefer to explore Pittsburgh on one of its numerous hiking trails? Well, if you're up for a day in and around the city, embark on the Emerald View Trail in Pennsylvania, which leads to some of the very best views in Pittsburgh.
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Lace up your hiking boots; fill up your water bottle; and set off on the 2.3-mile Emerald View Loop Trail, one of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania.
Have you followed the Emerald View Trail in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Let us know in the comments. If you have any Emerald View Trail photos, we'd love to see them, too. Ready to explore some more? Set off on one of these short and sweet trails in Pittsburgh.
Find all of the best hikes in Pennsylvania, including photos and hiker reviews, on All Trails.
Three cheers for warmer weather and some of the best spring hikes in Pittsburgh! Hang up the winter coat. Put away the hats, the gloves, and the boots. Spring is here! Now's the time to get outdoors. Breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with nature. The perfect way to do that? Slip on your hiking boots (or comfiest shoes) and embark on one of these easy and beautiful spring hikes in Pittsburgh (and a bit beyond).
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1. Jonathan Run Trail – 124 Main Street, Ohiopyle, PA 15470
Ohiopyle State Park is an idyllic spot for a day outdoors any time of the year. One of the easiest - and most breathtaking - hikes is along the 1.7-mile Jonathan Run Trail. Start your hike at the Holland Hill Road trailhead. Then enjoy the small waterfalls that you pass on your way to the 10-foot Jonathan Run Falls. After your hike, you just might want to visit Ohiopyle Falls and Cucumber Falls, arguably the two most popular waterfalls at the park. Read more about this scenic hike near Pittsburgh in our previous article.
2. Jennings Trail – 3000 PA-18, Hookstown, PA 15050
Smell the blossoming flowers that line Jennings Trail at Raccoon Creek State Park. The 1.5-mile trail meanders through the 314-acre Wildflower Reserve. Admire some of the 700 species of flowers - such as pink bluebells and Dutchman's breeches - you'll pass on the trail. The Wildflower Reserve is also home to deer, raccoons, and an assortment of birds. The Wildflower Reserve is open daily. Take a peek at this beautiful wildflower trail near Pittsburgh on AllTrails.
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3. Tranquil Trail – 1981 Beechwood Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Embrace the tranquility of nature at Frick Park along the Tranquil Trail. The trail, rated easy, spans 2.6 miles (round trip). Park at either the southern or the northern part of Frick Park to pick up the trail. The dog-friendly trail is predominately flat, although you will have to hike up a bit of an incline at some points. Find out why this Frick Park trail is also picture-perfect during the fall. No matter what time of year, this is one of the best hikes in Pittsburgh.
Schenley Park provides a convenient, breathtaking spot for hiking. Panther Hollow Trail, which meanders 1.8 miles, will take you through a wooded area. You'll also be treated to stunning views of Panther Hollow Lake, streams, blossoming flowers, and towering trees. The trail is dog-friendly. Get a glimpse of this easy hike in Pittsburgh in our previous article.
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5. Lakeside Loop – 1150 Keystone Park Road, Derry, PA
Keystone State Park boasts numerous hiking trails, ideal for exploring during the spring. Lakeside Loop, for example, is one of the easiest trails in the park. The flat trail meanders for 2.2. miles past Keystone Lake. Keep an eye out for local birds and wildlife, including cardinals, chickadees, and woodpeckers. It's one of the prettiest hiking trails near Pittsburgh. After your hike, consider pitching a tent at this popular state park. Read more about the campground near Pittsburgh in our previous article.
Snuggled near the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, Highland Park has been a popular park since its debut at the tail end of the 1800s. The 2.5-mile Double Loop Trail beckons hikers of all ages and skill levels. During your hike, you'll pass a tiny waterfall and a picturesque lake. The dog-friendly trail is open all year round. Take a peek at this scenic hike in Pittsburgh in our previous article.
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7. Fall Run Hiking Trail – 187 Fall Run Road, Glenshaw, PA 15116
Drink in spectacular views of Pittsburgh's largest and only named waterfall along the Fall Run Trail at Fall Run Park in Glenshaw. Since it's been recently renovated, you can now view the 30-foot waterfall from a viewing platform above it. The easy 1.4-mile trail features wooden footbridges, streams, and stairs leading to the viewing platform above the waterfall. Bring your pooch along, as long as you keep him on a leash. Learn more about this kid-friendly hike in Pittsburgh.
What do you think are the best spring hikes in Pittsburgh during spring? Let us know in the comments! Thinking of making a bucket list of Pittsburgh hikes? You're in luck! Check out the five best hikes in Pittsburgh. Make sure you download the AllTrails+ app to guide you on your hiking adventures this spring!
