Let's go on a hike today, Pittsburgh! We have plenty of ways to explore the city, but hiking gives us a chance to see places we normally wouldn't when we're driving around town. These six beautiful hikes in Pittsburgh are all brief, and you should be able to complete them in under an hour. They're also some of the best hikes in Pittsburgh that promise plenty of natural beauty.
1. Braille Trail – North Park
North Park’s Braille Trail, designed specifically for blind individuals, promises an easy yet beautiful stroll. Lined with wildflowers and lush trees, the trail spans just over a half of a mile. It also features guiding wire throughout the entire trail. Learn more on the official website of North Park.
2. Fall Run Trail – Fall Run Park
Get a glimpse of the lone waterfall in Allegheny County when you embark on the Fall Run Trail at Fall Run Park in Shaler. The 1.4-mile trail offers such gorgeous scenery as lush trees, babbling brooks, and wooden footbridges. The hike culminates at the waterfall, where you can drink in breathtaking views from the base. Or, climb the stairs to check out the view from the top. Stop by the official website of Fall Run Park for more information.
3. Harmony Trail – Wexford
Embark on the one-mile Harmony Trail in Wexford. The crushed-stone trail, which is mostly flat, leads to the popular Rachel Carson Trail. To start your hike, go to the Brennan Road trailhead. If you’re having fun hiking, keep going once you reach the start of the Rachel Carson Trail. Read more about the Harmony Trail.
4. Oak Forest – Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve
Spend a leisurely few hours outdoors at Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve. Boasting five miles of hiking trails, the nature reserve has nine trails, all spanning one-mile or less. That means you can check out one, two, or all of them, if you have the time. The Oak Forest Trail, for example, will take you just over a half of a mile through a shaded forest. Visit the official website of Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve.
5. Highland Park Trail
Explore Highland Park with a leisurely hike along the 2.5-mile Highland Park Double Loop Trail. Pass such stunning scenery as a small waterfall, a shimmering lake, and lush vegetation. The easy trail can get pretty busy at times with hikers, bikers, and dog walkers. Visit the official website of Highland Park.
6. Sunken Garden Trail – Moraine State Park
Journey a bit further than downtown Pittsburgh for a picture-perfect hike at Moraine State Park. One of the best things about the Sunken Garden Trail is you can embark on one of three loops – the 1.9, 2.4, or 3.6-mile loop respectively. The trail will lead you through tall grass, past lush trees, and by colorful, blossoming wildflowers. Here's the official website of Moraine State Park.
What are your favorite short hikes in Pittsburgh? Do you agree that these are some of the best hikes in Pittsburgh? Join the conversation in the comments! Love hiking and waterfalls? Then follow these six waterfall hikes near Pittsburgh.
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