Zip up your backpack. Slip on your most comfortable shoes. Make sure you have plenty of water, a fully charged smartphone, and your camera. You'll probably want to pack a few snacks and some sunscreen, especially during the warmer months, too. Then decide which of the five best hikes in Pittsburgh you'll set off on today. Each will show you a side of the city, and Western Pennsylvania, you might never have seen before.

1. The North Shore Trail

Pass spectacular beauty on the North Shore Trail. The six-mile hike will take you from Millvale Riverfront Park to the North Shore. During your hike, you'll have the opportunity to admire such Pittsburgh landmarks as the Three Sisters Bridges, PNC Park, Heinz Field, and the Carnegie Science Center. Read more about the North Shore Trail.

2. Slippery Rock Gorge Trail

Travel just about an hour from downtown Pittsburgh to McConnells Mill State Park. Prepare for a challenging 6.2-mile hike along the Slippery Rock Gorge, which travels from Hells Hollow to Eckerts Bridge. Snap photos of the entrance to an abandoned coal mine, a natural bridge, a cave, and a waterfall. Discover more about the Slippery Rock Gorge Trail .

3. Ghost Town Trail

Imagine the vibrant past of Western Pennsylvania's coal mining towns when you hike along the Ghost Town Trail, one the most unique trails near Pittsburgh. The entire trail spans 36 miles through Indiana and Cambria Counties. Hike the entire trail, or get on and off at one of the eight trail heads. Muse at what must have been as you hike past the remains of former coal mining towns, the Coal Miners Memorial, and and the remnants of the Eliza Furnace. Read more about the Ghost Town Trail.

4. Jennings Trail

Stop to smell the flowers when you traverse the Jennings Trail at Raccoon Creek State Park. The 1.5-mile easy trail near Pittsburgh winds through the park's Wildflower Reserve. View such breathtaking flowers as pink bluebells, red buds, and Dutchman's breeches. Learn more about the Jennings Trail .

5. Wopsononock Mountain

Travel up Wopsononock Mountain in Altoona for a delightfully haunted hike. Stroll up Beulah Road, where you may just run into a distraught bride looking for her missing groom. On the curve of the road, known as Devil's Elbow, the newlyweds' carriage toppled over the side of the mountain. The groom's body was never found. Read more about the tale and the trail at Wopsononock Mountain.

What do you think are the best hikes in Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! If you're a fan of hiking and waterfalls, you'll probably want to add these six waterfall hikes near Pittsburgh to your bucket list.