The best walks and hikes around Coraopolis
5.0
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84
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Hiking trails in Coraopolis PA are set within a landscape of wooded hillsides and stream valleys near the Ohio River. The area is known for its access to the Montour Trail, a crushed limestone rail-trail that follows a former railway line. The terrain offers a mix of relatively flat paths and more rustic, undulating trails through conservation areas.
Best hiking trails around Coraopolis
- The most popular hiking route is Montour Trail from Coraopolis to Trout Run Conservation Area, a 8.4 mile (13.5 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 30 minutes to complete. This route follows the well-maintained surface of the former railway line.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Montour Woods Conservation Area loop — Moon Township, a moderate 5.2 mile (8.4 km) path. The trail winds through a wooded preserve with some steeper sections.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Sewickley Heights Borough Park loop, a 2.8 mile (4.6 km) trail leading through parkland, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Coraopolis is defined by extensive rail-trails, wooded conservation areas, and stream valleys. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, from easy hikes for beginners to more moderate routes with some elevation change.
- The routes in Coraopolis are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from a number of reviews. More than 70 hikers have used komoot to explore Coraopolis's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5.39km
01:23
40m
10m
The Montour Trail: Coraopolis to Beaver Grade offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, following a crushed limestone path through a blend of natural and semi-urban landscapes. You'll enjoy peaceful stretches alongside Montour Run, with glimpses of wildflowers and leafy neighborhoods. While some industrial areas appear early on, the route quickly immerses you in nature, especially around the Meeks Creek bridge, providing a refreshing escape.
This 3.3-mile (5.4 km) segment is rated easy, with a minimal elevation gain of 120 feet (36 metres), making it perfect for a relaxed outing that takes about 1 hour and 23 minutes. You can easily access the trail from parking areas at Montour Road or Beaver Grade. It's a fantastic option for family-friendly hiking, offering a gentle gradient suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
As part of the much larger Montour Trail system, this section showcases the success of rail-trail conversions, providing continuous, flat paths for non-motorized use. The trail is meticulously maintained by volunteers, ensuring a pleasant journey through varied environments. It's a valuable recreational asset, connecting communities with nature and offering a quiet alternative to more strenuous routes in Allegheny County.
9.11km
02:20
50m
20m
The Montour Trail: Beaver Grade to Enlow offers a delightful and easygoing hiking experience, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. You'll traverse a mostly crushed limestone path, winding through leafy neighborhoods and wooded sections that hug Montour Run, occasionally spotting wildflowers. The journey culminates in the unique experience of passing through the historic Enlow Tunnel, a cool, curved railroad tunnel that's a treat for trail users. This 5.7-mile (9.1 km) route, with its minimal 151 feet (46 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, making it highly accessible.
Planning your visit is simple, with trailheads at Beaver Grade and Enlow, both offering convenient access points. The trail's former railway line status means a consistently gentle grade, making it suitable for nearly all ages and fitness levels. While specific parking capacity isn't detailed, the well-maintained surface ensures a smooth journey, and no permits or fees are required for this section.
This segment of the Montour Trail is a fantastic example of Western Pennsylvania's extensive trail network, connecting to the Pittsburgh Airport Connector trail and forming part of the larger Montour Trail system, which was designated a National Recreation Trail in 2017. Beyond the Enlow Tunnel, you'll also pass by a small wetland with cattails and glimpse a golf course and farms, showcasing a diverse blend of natural and agricultural landscapes.
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36.5km
09:29
250m
200m
The Montour Trail: Groveton to McDonald offers a long, immersive journey through Pennsylvania's countryside, predominantly on a crushed limestone surface that makes for easy walking despite the distance. You'll traverse woodlands, wetlands, and open fields, passing through agricultural areas and even some restored strip mines, with the impressive McDonald Trestle providing expansive valley views. This route is a fantastic option for hikers seeking a full day of exploration with varied scenery and a gentle grade, rather than steep climbs.
Accessing the trail is simple, with multiple trailheads and parking areas available along the route, and you won't need any permits or have to pay fees. Amenities like water fountains and restrooms are conveniently placed, making planning your visit easier. To fully appreciate the natural beauty, including wildflowers and the scent of honeysuckle, aim for a visit during the warmer months.
This section of the Montour Trail is a prime example of a successful rail-to-trail conversion, preserving the region's history by following an abandoned railway line that once served numerous coal mines. It's a testament to community effort, offering a glimpse into the area's heritage while providing a peaceful escape into nature, where you might spot white-tailed deer and wild turkeys.
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7
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8.43km
02:22
170m
170m
The Montour Woods Conservation Area loop offers a delightful journey through varied terrain, from wide, easy paths to more technical singletrack sections with roots and rocks. You'll wind through lush evergreen and deciduous forests, enjoying the tranquility of nature, and might even spot the small, picturesque waterfall along Meeks Run Trail. This 5.2-mile (8.4 km) hike with 567 feet (173 metres) of elevation gain is rated moderate and typically takes about 2 hours and 22 minutes, providing a satisfying challenge without being overly strenuous.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with multiple trailheads offering convenient parking. While the area is generally peaceful, its popularity means arriving earlier on weekends can help secure a spot. The trails are well-maintained by the Hollow Oak Land Trust, making it a reliable option for a hike in any season, though autumn's vibrant foliage is a particular highlight. Remember to bring sufficient water, especially during warmer periods.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Montour Woods Conservation Area holds a unique historical secret: the concrete remnants of a Cold War-era NIKE missile site. This intriguing feature, along with an old oil well and a small man-made cave, adds an extra layer of discovery to your hike. Despite its proximity to Pittsburgh, the area provides a quiet escape, perfect for those seeking a blend of natural immersion and historical curiosity.
3
hikers
2.31km
00:42
80m
80m
Discover a true local gem on the Vinegar Hollow Trail, an easy hiking route that winds through a serene, forested landscape. You'll traverse woodland paths, following a pleasant creek through a stream valley before climbing onto a ridgeline. The trail is mostly shaded by trees, offering a diverse natural environment that feels much further from urban life than it is. It's a great option for a quick nature fix or a gentle workout.
The trailhead is conveniently located off Center Avenue in Ben Avon, making it easy to access. This 1.4-mile (2.3 km) loop, with its 272 feet (83 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 41 minutes, making it ideal for a short visit. Parking is available, and no permits are needed, so you can head out whenever the mood strikes, though autumn brings spectacular colors.
This conservation area is a testament to significant local efforts to preserve green space, and it's known for its wildlife, including deer and foxes. A unique historical feature is the old stone chimney, remnants of Hodgdon Lodge, built by Boy Scouts in the early 1900s. The trail also connects to a broader network, offering options like the Doe Run Trail and Devil's Horn Trail for those looking to extend their hike.
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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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The Forestbrooke Conservation Area is a 7-acre haven for plants and animals. As you ride along the Montour Trail, you'll have a great opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of nature.
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Enlow Tunnel, a remarkable feat of engineering, was excavated through the hillside in 1926 as part of a realignment initiative by the Montour Railroad. Its construction aimed to eradicate multiple challenging curves in the railroad's original main line. Stretching 575 feet, this tunnel replaced a half-mile section of track that previously wound around the hill alongside Montour Run.
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The Montour Woods Conservation Area, sprawling across 320 acres in Moon Township, brings together three formerly distinct conservation areas, each boasting its own trailheads. Found on Hassam Road, the primary parking area and trailhead sit about 100 yards uphill from the Montour Trail toward Moon. Offering over 10 miles of wooded trails for hiking, biking, and nature appreciation, visitors can delve into the diverse natural surroundings.
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Following over five years of dedicated advocacy and fundraising efforts, the Hollow Oak Land Trust, based in Moon Township, has successfully acquired four parcels of pristine greenspace known as Vinegar Hollow in Kilbuck Township, Allegheny County. Accessible to the public via a trailhead on Center Avenue in Ben Avon, visitors can explore over 2 miles of scenic trails. Additionally, Hollow Oak plans to collaborate with community members and volunteers to enhance and expand the trail network within this expansive 46-acre area.
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Covering a size of more than 46 acres, the Vinegar Hollow Conservation Area in Kilbuck Township is an open recreational area. It features more than 2 miles of hiking trails, that lead through the forest.
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The 320-acre Montour Woods Conservation Area in Moon Township features multiple multi-use trail for hiking and biking. They lead along natural paths through a wooded area and can be combined to your liking to shorten or extend your hike in the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the Coraopolis area?
Yes, the region has several options suitable for families and beginners. A great choice is the Sewickley Heights Borough Park loop. It's a relatively short and gentle walk through pleasant parkland, making it ideal for an easy outing with kids.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails near Coraopolis?
Most trails in the area, including the popular Montour Trail and paths within Montour Woods Conservation Area, are dog-friendly. However, it's always best practice to keep your dog on a leash and be prepared to clean up after them to ensure the trails remain enjoyable for everyone.
Where can I find a more challenging, rustic hiking experience?
For a more rugged hike with natural surfaces, rocks, and roots, the trails within the Montour Woods Conservation Area are your best bet. These paths offer a more challenging alternative to the flat rail-trails, with steeper sections winding through a dense forest.
Are there any waterfalls to see on hikes around Coraopolis?
Yes, you can find a small waterfall within the Montour Woods Conservation Area. The trails in this preserve, managed by the Hollow Oak Land Trust, lead you through a diverse woodland ecosystem where you can discover this natural feature along with a cave and scenic overlooks.
What are the trail surfaces like? Are they paved or natural?
The trails offer a mix of surfaces. The Montour Trail, a former railway line, consists of a well-maintained crushed limestone path that is relatively flat and wide. In contrast, trails in conservation areas like Montour Woods are typically natural dirt paths, which can be narrow, uneven, and include roots and rocks.
Is it possible to go on a long-distance hike from Coraopolis?
Absolutely. Coraopolis provides access to the Montour Trail, which is part of a much larger network. The Montour Trail connects to the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP), which in turn links to the C&O Canal Towpath, creating a continuous 335-mile route all the way to Washington, D.C.
Where can I park to access the trails?
There are several dedicated parking areas. For the Montour Trail and Montour Woods, the Montour Trail - Hassam Road Trailhead is a popular and convenient starting point. It provides direct access to both the rail-trail and the more rustic woodland paths.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, there are several loop trails that bring you back to your starting point. For a shorter, easy loop, consider the Vinegar Hollow Conservation Area loop. For a longer, more moderate option, the trails within Montour Woods Conservation Area also form several loops.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
The landscape is characterized by wooded hillsides, serene stream valleys, and views of the Ohio River. Hikes can take you through mature forests in the conservation areas, along the historic Montour Trail with its bridges and tunnels, or along the developing Ohio River Trail for scenic water views.
How difficult are the hiking trails around Coraopolis?
The area offers a good balance for different fitness levels. The majority of routes are rated as easy, particularly the flat rail-trails. However, there are also several moderate trails, like the Ethan's Trail loop — Trout Run Conservation Area, which involve more elevation gain and uneven terrain. There are currently no routes rated as difficult.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
The trails around Coraopolis are very highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained surface of the Montour Trail and the beautiful, natural setting of the wooded conservation areas. The variety of trail types, from flat paths to more rugged singletrack, is a frequently mentioned highlight.
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