7 Easy Hikes Around Pittsburgh You’ll Want To Knock Off Your Summer Bucket List

Well, warmer days are here and rolling along, but, before you know it, we'll be bombarded with back-to-school ads, sales pitches for fall clothing, and Halloween candy in stores. So, we've got to make the most of every sun-kissed moment while we can! If you're looking for the best hikes in Pittsburgh for a warm day, you've come to the perfect place! Here are seven of the most beautiful places around Pittsburgh for a good hike:

1. Meadow Run – Ohiopyle State Park

Meadow Run Trail, nestled in Ohiopyle State Park, offers everything a perfect summer hike should: Waterfalls, cascades, and a natural waterslide. The 2.9-mile loop trail appeals to hikers, joggers, and walkers of all ages and abilities. Drink in spectacular views of the Youghiogheny River. And, if you're a daredevil, slip into the Meadow Run Natural Waterslides. Finish your hike at Cucumber Falls, a majestic waterfall that drops 30 feet.

2. Tranquil Trail – Frick Park

Frick Park provides the perfect setting for having a picnic, playing with the kids, and going for a leisurely stroll. Tranquil Trail will lead you through the leafy-green of Frick Park. The gravel trail spans 2.6 miles round-trip. And, whether you're on your own or you've got little ones, you'll find it's an easy, predominately flat trail.

3. Braille Trail – North Park

Explore the Braille Trail Loop in North Park. The trail, rated easy, stretches just over half a mile. It was designed with the seeing-impaired in mind. So, expect to see guiding wire along the right side of the entire trail. Along the trail, you'll also find wildflowers and plenty of trees.

4. Lotus Trail – Pittsburgh Botanic Garden

Feel a million miles away from civilization when you embark on any of the trails at Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. The Lotus Trail, for example, will take you from the Welcome Center through a flat path, surrounded by lush green trees. Some of the sights along the trail include the Lotus Pond and the Asian Woodlands.

5. Fall Run Trail – Fall Run Park

Get ready for spectacular views of the only waterfall in Allegheny County. Just follow the Fall Run Trail, which spans 1.4 miles. Along the way, you'll cross wooden footbridges and streams, culminating with picture perfect views of the 30-foot Fall Run Waterfall. For views from above, just climb up the relatively new staircase.

6. Spring Hollow – Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve

Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve in Fox Chapel offers plenty of opportunities to experience the sheer beauty of nature. The nature preserve boasts several hiking trails, including the Spring Hollow Trail. Spring Hollow spans less than half of a mile. But you'll have plenty to see - a pond, a stream, and a treehouse are just the beginning.

7. Tour Trail – Powdermill Nature Reserve

Looking for a fun way to spend the day? Head to Powdermill Nature Reserve, a part of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Explore the nature reserve by embarking on one of the hiking trails. The Tour Trail, for example, stretches half a mile and features a slight elevation of only 50 feet. And, you'll get to see lush green, native plants, and even wildlife.

The best hikes in Pittsburgh (and a bit further afield) provide fun, relaxing ways to spend the hours of a warm day. Which hikes would you say are the best hikes in Pittsburgh? Or, do you have another favorite summer hike? Share in the comments! Then, read about the seven kid-friendly hikes in Pittburgh that also belong on your warm-weather to-do list.