The best walks and hikes around Mcdonald
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61
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11
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Hiking trails around McDonald primarily follow converted railway lines, offering generally flat to gently rolling terrain. The region features a network of multi-use paths that often cross historical trestles and pass through conservation areas. These trails provide access to local natural features, including small waterfalls and forested sections.
Best hiking trails around McDonald
- The most popular hiking route is Panhandle Trail from Walkers Mill to Oakdale, a 7.6 miles (12.3 km) trail that takes 3 hours 13 minutes to…
Last updated: May 20, 2026
6
hikers
8.98km
02:24
100m
80m
Hike the 5.6-mile Panhandle Trail from Walkers Mill to Gregg Station, a moderate rail trail with gentle grades and wooded scenery.
1
hikers
2.77km
00:44
30m
20m
Hike the easy 1.7-mile (2.8 km) Pittsburgh Botanical Garden: Meadow, Lotus and Orchard Loop, exploring diverse landscapes and historic featu
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1
hikers
3.07km
00:52
70m
70m
Easy 1.9-mile hike through wooded areas and valleys in Settler's Cabin Park, featuring wildflowers and a small waterfall.
17.8km
04:41
150m
150m
Hike the Montour Trail from Venice to Hendersonville, a 11.1-mile moderate route through rural farmlands with 496 feet of elevation gain.
10.3km
02:42
80m
80m
Embark on a scenic hike along the Montour Trail: McDonald to Venice, a moderate route spanning 6.4 miles (10.3 km). You will experience a gentle ascent of 269 feet (82…
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Tips from the Community
The McDonald Trestle is a historic former railroad bridge, and is now a nearly 1,000‑foot long pedestrian and cycling viaduct on the Montour Trail.
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Wet tunnel with water dripping from ceiling. Very cold almost icy.
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Westland Junction serves as the pivotal point linking the main Montour Trail with the Westland Branch Montour Trail. Named after the Westland Mine 1, which held significance as a Montour RR servicing point until the early 1980s. Following abandonment, the branch was revitalized by the W&LE in 2012 to cater to the gas plant.
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The beginning of the Panhandle Trail that goes all the way to the West Virginia state border, 23 miles away. Walkers Mill is a popular trailhead with two parking lots.
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This scenic bridge, which is part of the Montour Trail, is 962 feet long, and crosses over the Panhandle Trail. To access either trail, users can find the "connector trail" north of the bridge on the Montour Trail, or west of the bridge on the Panhandle Trail.
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At 623 feet, this is the longest tunnel on the Montour Trail and has lights on throughout the year to help see your way. During the winter, the two entrances are sealed to prevent the buildup of ice, which could reach 2-3 feet thick due to the high moisture dripping from the walls and ceiling. Trail users can still enter the sealed tunnel via doorways throughout the winter and find a balmy interior. The tunnel was bored in 1913 and lined with concrete in 1928. Operations ended in 1980 and it became part of the Montour Trail in 1992.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Mcdonald?
There are 5 hiking routes listed in this guide for the Mcdonald area, offering a range of experiences from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance routes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Mcdonald?
The hiking trails around Mcdonald primarily follow converted railway lines, offering generally flat to gently rolling terrain. You'll often find yourself in wooded corridors and open landscapes, with paths crossing historical trestles and passing through conservation areas.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options around Mcdonald?
Yes, many of the trails, particularly those on converted railway lines, are suitable for families due to their generally flat or gently rolling terrain. The guide includes 2 easy routes, such as the Settler’s Cabin Waterfall loop from Settlers Ridge Shopping Center, which is a manageable 7.2 km loop.
Are there any loop trails in the Mcdonald area?
Yes, there are loop options available. For example, the Settler’s Cabin Waterfall loop from Settlers Ridge Shopping Center is a 7.2 km easy loop that includes a waterfall.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the hiking trails?
Along the trails, you can explore several notable landmarks related to the area's railway history. These include the Enlow Tunnel, the National Tunnel, and the impressive McDonald Trestle Bridge. These features are often integrated into the converted railway line paths.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Mcdonald?
The trails around Mcdonald are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the varied scenery along the converted railway lines, the accessibility of the paths, and the opportunity to explore local natural features and historical railway infrastructure.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails around Mcdonald?
While specific dog policies can vary by trail section or conservation area, trails on converted railway lines are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Mcdonald?
Yes, the Settler’s Cabin Waterfall loop from Settlers Ridge Shopping Center is an easy 7.2 km hike that features a waterfall, making it a popular choice for those looking for this natural attraction.
What are the typical lengths of hikes in the Mcdonald area?
Hikes in the Mcdonald area vary in length. You can find shorter options like the 7.2 km Settler’s Cabin Waterfall loop, moderate routes around 12-14 km such as the Panhandle Trail from Walkers Mill to Oakdale, and longer trails up to 19.6 km like the Montour Trail from Boggs Road to McDonalds Trestle.
Is parking available at the trailheads around Mcdonald?
Yes, many trailheads for the converted railway lines, such as the McDonald Panhandle Trail trailhead and the Walkers Mill Station Entrance – Panhandle Trail, typically offer designated parking areas for hikers.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Mcdonald?
The converted railway trails around Mcdonald are generally accessible and enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and scenic views, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter hiking may be possible, but conditions can vary, especially on unpaved sections.
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