Posted in Pittsburgh
June 28, 2017
8 Off-The-Grid Destinations Around Pittsburgh That Will Take You Away From It All
Turn off your phone. Forget the craziness of the outside world, even if just for a few hours. Surround yourself by the beauty of nature, in a tranquil setting, at these off-the-grid destinations in Pittsburgh, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, go hiking, have a picnic, or watch wildlife.
Explore some of the 3,600 acres of the lush Hillman State Park. A popular spot with hunters, the state park also offers a network of hiking trails that will give you a close up look at local wildlife and there's a model airplane field. Hillman State Park is open all year around from sunrise to sunset.
Meander along hiking trails. Listen to the sound of a waterfall tumbling into the water. Watch the ducks and geese float as you enjoy a leisurely visit to Sahli Nature Park. The cozy 90-acre park, nestled among a forest of trees, offers plenty to do and to see, including swings for all ages, hiking trails, and a butterfly nursery.
Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and snacks as you embark on the Rachel Carson Trail, a 38 mile hiking trail that runs from Harrison Hills County Park to North Park. During the hike, which you can do in a day or spread out over a few days, you'll travel through county parks and past bluffs, creeks, and meadows.
Get lost in Forbes State Forest, a sprawling 60,000 acres that boasts a plethora of natural wonders, inlcuding Mt. Davis Natural Area, Quebec Run Wild Area, and Roaring Run Natural Area. Wile away the day within the forest, hiking, horseback riding, biking, and camping.
Stroll through some of the 87 acres of Wingfield Pines Conservation Area or meander in a boat along Chartiers Creek. Explore the land and the water or visit the lush conservation area for one of the many hosted events. Macro Mayhem, for example, is set for July 3, 2017 at 4 p.m.
Find pure tranquility at Allegheny Islands State Park, an uninhabited (except for wildlife) 43 acres in Cheswick that deserves a spot on the list of off-the-grid places in Pittsburgh. The island, which has no restroom facilities, promises a quiet spot for fishing and for boating. With permission, groups may also camp in the primitive state park.
Slip away from society for a few hours or a few days when you visit Cook Forest State Park. Spend hours on the Clarion river, inner tubing, boating, or canoeing. Head into the massive forest itself for a day of hiking, horseback riding, or biking.
Soak up the breathtaking beauty - and history - of Oil Creek State Park. Choose from a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking, canoeing, hiking, biking, and fishing. Snap photos of the park's four majestic waterfalls, which are at their peak during the early to late spring.
Western Pennsylvania offers plenty of tranquil oases, including these eight off-the-grid places in Pittsburgh, making it easy to escape the busyness of the city. What other off-the-grid places in Pittsburgh would you include in a part two of this list?
