5 Of The Greatest City Hiking Trails In Pittsburgh For Beginners
By Beth Price-Williams|Published October 10, 2019
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Breathe in the fresh air. Soak up the sunshine. Get exercise. Hiking just might be the perfect outdoor activity no matter your age or your skill level. However, if you’re just starting out as a hiker, you’ll probably want to begin by setting off on the best hiking trails in Pittsburgh for beginners. Here are six city hiking trails that promise beautiful scenery and that are rated easy.
Don’t forget your camera or your smartphone when you head out on the Emerald View Trail that will take you through Emerald View Park. One of the highlights of the 2.3-mile loop trail is undoubtedly the views from high atop Mount Washington. You’ll get to see the classic landscape views of Pittsburgh and of such neighborhoods as Duquesne Heights and Allentown.
Enjoy picture-perfect views of the city, including a close-up of the Allegheny County Jail, from the Eliza Furnace Trail. The 5.7-mile trail features a variety of scenery, including going into the lush Schenley Park. The hiking trail is predominately paved.
Our next easy hike takes us to Riverview Park. The Riverview Park Loop Trail spans 2.7 miles and promises plenty of lush scenery. The trail features paved paths that will lead you through a forest-like setting. Bring your pups along on the dog-friendly trail, but remember to keep them on a leash.
Explore Schenley Park along the 1.9-mile Panther Hollow Trail. The loop trail offers an abundance of gorgeous scenery – from picture-perfect snapshots of the city skyline to a variety of wildlife, including deer. Bring the kiddos and the pooches along for the kid and dog-friendly hiking trail.
Our final easy trail takes us to Highland Park. Along the 2.5-mile trail, which can become pretty busy at times, you’ll come upon a shimmering lake and a reservoir. The hiking trail is predominately paved, although you’ll go through some wooded areas and have to walk up some stairs.
What are your favorite hiking trails in Pittsburgh for beginners? Join the conversation in the comments! Grab the kiddos and set off on this easy trail that will take you straight to Allegheny County’s lone waterfall. Click here to read more.
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