The best walks and hikes around Pittsburgh

The Duck Hollow Trail in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, perfect for a relaxed outing. This 3.0-mile (4.8 km) route, with a minimal 30 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete, making it ideal for families and beginners. You'll follow a mostly paved path alongside the Monongahela River, enjoying serene, tree-lined scenery and notable views of the Homestead Grays Bridge.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with accessible parking available at the trailhead. The trail is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed companion. While the path is wide and well-maintained, be prepared as amenities like restrooms or drinking fountains might not be readily available along this particular stretch. It's a pleasant trail to explore during any season, offering a peaceful escape.

Part of the larger Three Rivers Heritage Trail network, the Duck Hollow Trail utilizes former railroad rights-of-way, explaining its gentle grade and easy hiking difficulty. This secluded route provides a unique glimpse into Pittsburgh's industrial past while offering a quiet natural setting. It's a great option if you're looking for a tranquil walk with natural features and river viewpoints, away from the city's hustle.

The Beechview Seldom Seen Greenway Trail offers a surprising urban escape, winding through a wooded gorge along Sawmill Run. You'll encounter the historic Seldom Seen Arch, a beautiful brick tunnel, and a small waterfall cascading into a bluish-gray slate gorge, creating a unique atmosphere. While the main path is generally flat and easy, exploring off-trail can lead to steep climbs and creek crossings, making it a varied experience for a short outing.

This easy 0.8-mile (1.2 km) hike with only 18 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 18 minutes, making it ideal for a quick nature fix. Be aware that some less-maintained sections might have hazards like broken glass or require you to get your feet wet crossing creeks, so choose your footwear accordingly. Parking is typically available nearby, and it's a great spot for a spontaneous visit.

What makes this trail truly stand out are its historical remnants, including scattered broken ceramics from a former German village and abandoned, graffiti-covered railroad tracks that offer unique photo opportunities. Despite its urban setting, you might even spot some wildlife. It's a true hidden gem among Pittsburgh's urban hiking trails, blending natural beauty with fascinating glimpses into the city's past.

Embark on the Emerald View Trail, a moderate hike spanning 8.5 miles (13.7 km) with an elevation gain of 1232 feet (375 metres). This route takes about 3 hours and 59 minutes to complete. You will wind through serene wooded paths, then emerge to panoramic views of Downtown Pittsburgh, its three rivers, Heinz Field, and PNC Park from Mount Washington. Expect a mix of gravel and dirt surfaces in forested areas, which can be muddy, alongside city sidewalks.

The Emerald View Trail is generally accessible, making it suitable for various activities including hiking, biking, and walking with leashed pets. You will find segments along city sidewalks and streets, connecting woodland paths with neighborhood access. No specific warnings like road closures or permits are mentioned for this route. Plan your visit to enjoy both the natural and urban elements of the trail.

This trail offers a distinct perspective of Pittsburgh, blending urban and natural landscapes seamlessly. It provides access to historic Pittsburgh inclines, such as the Duquesne and Monongahela Inclines, adding a unique way to reach or explore the area. The route truly offers a diverse experience within Emerald View Park, showcasing the city's unique character.

The South Side Trail in Pittsburgh offers a delightful urban hike along the Monongahela River, perfect for a quick escape. This easy 2.0-mile (3.3 km) out-and-back route features minimal elevation gain of just 37 feet (11 metres), making it accessible for nearly everyone and typically taking around 50 minutes. You'll enjoy continuous views of the downtown Pittsburgh skyline, including landmarks like the Cathedral of Learning, and the historic Hot Metal Bridge.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this riverside path. As an urban trail, it's generally open and enjoyable year-round, though spring and fall provide ideal weather. Parking can be found in various city lots or on streets nearby, but it's always a good idea to arrive earlier on weekends to secure a spot. No special permits or fees are needed to access this family-friendly route.

Beyond the city views, the trail offers glimpses into Pittsburgh's industrial heritage with old coal barges visible along the riverbanks. For wildlife enthusiasts, there's a chance to spot bald eagles, as nesting sites are known to exist further along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail system, of which this segment is a part. It's a fantastic way to experience the city's natural and historical elements in one easy outing.