Spring’s all about spending time outdoors. Fortunately, we have plenty to keep us busy in these warmer months – from visiting the returning farmers markets to hanging out at local parks. Spring’s also an ideal time to go on a picnic and to hike. Why not combine the two? Here are seven picture-perfect picnic hikes, some of the best hikes in Pittsburgh, that will make your spring complete.

1. Riverview Park
Riverview Park, 159 Riverview Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15214, USA
Trip Advisor/management
Spend a leisurely afternoon or evening at Riverview Park, where you can embark on a picturesque hike before enjoying a picnic. Set off on the 2.7-mile Loop Trail through a picture-perfect wooded area that attracts hikers, horseback riders, and plenty of deer. The park itself boasts a playground and picnic tables, an ideal way to cap off your hike. Here's the official website of Riverview Park.
2. Frick Park
Frick Park, 1981 Beechwood Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15217, USA
AllTrails/Taylor Zebert
Explore the forest – or at least feel like it – when you set off on the Frick Park Tour Loop Trail. The nearly five-mile trail winds through the popular Pittsburgh park. Bring your kids and your pooches along. After you’ve finished the trail, which can take a few hours depending on how fast you walk, enjoy a picnic as the kids play on the playground. View a trail map of Frick Park Tour Loop Trail on All Trails.
3. Schenley Park
Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
All Trails/Shona Freeman
Head out on one off Schenley Park’s hiking trails, such as Panther Hollow Trail. Spanning just 1.8 miles, the dog-friendly trail features plenty of opportunities to see local wildlife. The park also offers a ton to do after your hike. Spread out at a picnic table for a leisurely lunch. Go swimming in the pool (during the summer). Or, watch the kids play at the playground. Find more information on and a trail map of Panther Hollow Trail.
4. Twin Lakes Park
Twin Lakes Park, 219 Twin Lakes Rd, Latrobe, PA 15650, USA
AllTrails/Richard Lenyo
Twin Lakes Park provides an idyllic setting for both a leisurely hike and a relaxing picnic. Start your visit by meandering along 2.4-mile Twin Lakes Loop Trail, a popular trail that features plenty of hikers, walkers, and dog walkers. (Just make sure you keep your dog on a leash.) Lay claim to one of the lakeside picnic tables. If you’ve forgotten to bring food, stop by the Boathouse, where you can stock up on food and drinks or rent a paddle boat, a rowboat, or a canoe. Stop by the official website of Twin Lakes Park for more information.
5. Fall Run Park
Fall Run Park, 187 Fall Run Rd, Glenshaw, PA 15116, USA
All Trails/prateek kulkami
What do you get when you combine a leisurely hike, a waterfall, and a picnic? A delightful afternoon in Pittsburgh, of course. Stroll along the 1.4-mile Fall Run Trail. Pass a stream, and cross over a wooden bridge. Then arrive at the base of the 30-foot Fall Run Waterfall. Climb the wooden stairs for another view of the waterfall before heading to the pavilion for a picnic. Get more details on the official website of Fall Run Park.
6. Keystone State Park
Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone Park Rd, Derry, PA 15627, USA
All Trails/Randy Sanner
Grab your picnic basket as you set off on the 1.9-mile Keystone Lake Loop Trail, a picturesque trail that will lead you alongside the shimmering lake. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and, when hunger strikes, relax at one of the picnic tables overlooking the lake. Visit the official website of Keystone State Park for more information.
7. Moraine State Park
Moraine State Park, 225 Pleasant Valley Rd, Portersville, PA 16051, USA
All Trails/Jessica Dittmore
Embark on the delightfully easy and scenic Pleasant Valley Trail. Spanning just 1.9 miles, the trail will take you through charming wooded areas and sprawling grassy spots. You’ll hike right past two picnic areas, perfect for stopping and enjoying a leisurely lunch or dinner. After your picnic and hike, explore the rest of the state park that offers a full menu of activities, including swimming, boating, and bike riding. Stop by the official website of Moraine State Park for more information.

What are your favorite picnic hikes in Pittsburgh? Do you think these are some of the best hikes in Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! Then take a peek at the best places to have a picnic in Pittsburgh (minus the hiking).

 

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Best Hikes In Pittsburgh

Beth Price-Williams | April 22, 2022

What are the most scenic hikes in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh’s brimming with beauty, both natural and manmade. One of the best ways to admire that beauty is on a hike. We have dozens of trails from which to choose in the city and a bit beyond. If you’re a fan of the water, head out on one of the most scenic waterfront hikes in Pittsburgh. The North Shore Trail, for example, spans six miles and passes some of the Pittsburgh’s most iconic landmarks – PNC Park, Heinz Field, and Mister Rogers’ statue. If you’re hiking in the summertime, cool off on the water steps. If you’re up for a drive, head out to McConnells Mill State Park. The short and sweet three-mile Kildoo Trail will take you past a waterfall, a grist mill, and chiseled rock formations. (Don’t forget your camera!) Beach Trail/Lake Trail at Raccoon Creek State Park tallies less than half of a mile and is especially popular in the summer, especially if you want to lounge on the beach or cool off in the lake.

Is there a lot to do at Keystone State Park near Pittsburgh?

We’re quite fortunate to live within easy driving distance of quite a few state parks near Pittsburgh – Moraine State Park, Ohiopyle State Park, and Laurel Hill State Park, to name just a few. Keystone State Park is a perfect, family-friendly destination all-year around. It offers a slew of activities – hiking, biking, and picnicking. The fun doesn’t stop in the winter when adventurers head to the state park for a bit of cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice skating. In the summertime, pack all of your beach gear for a day lounging on the sandy beach. No matter what time of the year you visit, you’ll likely find a single day just isn’t enough. The campground at Keystone State Park is open all year around, whether you want to pitch a tent, park your RV, or rent one of the modern cabins. The cozy state park 45 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh also features two yurts for a unique camping experience.

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