Winter in Pittsburgh is meant for spending outdoors (then cozying up under a thick blanket to warm up). We’ve got an abundance of winter activities – skiing, sledding, snow tubing, and snowboarding – to fill the whole season. Hiking in the winter can also give us a unique perspective on nature, often at its prettiest blanketed in snow. Here are five of the best hikes near Pittsburgh you’ll definitely want to check out in the wintertime.

1. McConnells Mill State Park – Portersville

Starting off our list of the best winter hikes near Pittsburgh are the trails at McConnells Mill State Park. This park boasts more than 11 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. For an easy trail, follow the half-mile Hell’s Hollow Trail that leads to a beautiful waterfall. (Wait until you see it frozen and sprinkled in snow!) For a more challenging trek, try the three-mile Kildoo Trail. Here’s the official website of McConnells Mill State Park.

2. Keystone State Park – Derry

Keystone State Park transforms into a magical winter wonderland after a snowfall. Explore the winter wonderland along eight miles of hiking trails, with all six trails rating easy. Davis Run Trail, for example, stretches three miles and will lead you through the forest. This is one of the best places for some cold weather hiking near Pittsburgh. Learn more on the official website of Keystone State Park.

3. Moraine State Park – Portersville

Nearly 30 miles of hiking trails await at Moraine State Park, a picture-perfect destination any time of the year. Pleasant Valley Trail, at just under two miles, is a good trail if you want easy or if you want to do a little cross-country skiing. Once you’ve finished a hike, check out the other popular winter activities, including sledding and snowmobiling. Visit the official website of Moraine State Park.

4. Laurel Hill State Park – Somerset

Laurel Hill State Park boasts a beautiful beach during the summer and more than 15 miles of hiking trails that are breathtaking when capped in snow. The trails range from easy to hard, with the easiest and the shortest totaling just a mile. Copper Kettle Trail will take you past the beach and to the picnic area. This is the perfect place for winter hiking near Pittsburgh. Check out the official website of Laurel Hill State Park.

5. Forbes State Forest – Laurel Highlands

Discover a gorgeous winter landscape at Forbes State Forest. Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and hiking are all popular winter outdoor activities near Pittsburgh. The forest, in fact, features more than 250 miles of hiking trails, so you’re sure to find one that appeals to you. If you’re up for a multi-day trek, you can even follow the Laurel Highlands Trail, which spans from Ohiopyle to Johnstown. Find more on the official website of Forbes State Forest.

What are your favorites of these options for winter hiking in Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! And if you're wondering what to pack on a winter trip in PGH, we've got you covered.

Since we’re in the throes of another winter, who’s up for a bit of reminiscing? Here are some historic winter storms in Pittsburgh.