The best gravel rides around Pittsburgh

There are over 25 gravel bike routes available around Pittsburgh, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include everything from easy, scenic rides to challenging, long-distance adventures.

Pittsburgh's gravel trails offer varied terrain, from crushed-limestone rail trails like sections of the Great Allegheny Passage and Montour Trail, to more rugged routes with significant elevation gains in areas like the Laurel Highlands. You'll encounter a mix of well-maintained gravel surfaces, some paved sections, and scenic backroads through valleys and forests.

Yes, several trails offer a more relaxed experience suitable for families. The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP Trail) is largely flat and scenic, making it a great option. While specific family-friendly routes are not detailed in the guide, look for trails with lower difficulty ratings, such as the Enlow Tunnel – Enlow Tunnel loop from Emsworth, which is rated easy.

Many outdoor trails in the Pittsburgh area, including sections of the Great Allegheny Passage and Montour Trail, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. However, it's always best to check specific park or trail regulations before you go to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Pittsburgh's gravel routes often feature stunning views. You can ride along the city's three rivers—the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio—offering unique urban and riverfront vistas. The Laurel Highlands region provides breathtaking views within lush river valleys. You might also encounter highlights like the Great Allegheny Passage Trailhead at Point State Park, or the Hot Metal Bridge, offering picturesque river crossings.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region offers routes like the Enlow Tunnel – McDonald Trestle Bridge loop from The Mall at Robinson, a difficult 44.1-mile ride with significant elevation. The Laurel Highlands also boasts challenging routes with steep climbs and exhilarating descents, such as the "Ohiopyle Gravel Mini Loop" and "Dead Short Course" which traverses Mount Davis.

Yes, many gravel routes around Pittsburgh are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Enlow Tunnel – Montour Trail loop from Glenfield and the Enlow Tunnel – Montour Trail loop from The Mall at Robinson. The Bavington 50 in Hillman State Park is another popular loop route.

The best time for gravel biking in Pittsburgh is generally spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Fall is particularly beautiful with changing foliage, especially in areas like the Laurel Highlands. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice on trails.

Yes, some routes offer opportunities to stop for refreshments. For example, the Enlow Tunnel – Helicon Brewery loop from Carnegie is a difficult 34-mile route that specifically includes a brewery stop. The urban proximity of many trails also means you're often not far from amenities.

To find less crowded trails, consider exploring areas slightly further from the immediate city center or popular rail-trail sections. The Cross Creek County Park offers a 56-mile loop that crisscrosses the Pennsylvania and West Virginia border on scenic backroads, providing an engaging alternative. Sections of the Allegheny National Forest also offer hundreds of miles of graveled roads that are generally less trafficked.

Parking is generally available at trailheads for major routes like the Great Allegheny Passage and Montour Trail. Many state parks, such as Hillman State Park (home to the Bavington 50) and Ohiopyle State Park, also provide designated parking areas for trail access. For routes starting from urban areas, look for public parking lots or street parking near the starting points mentioned in the route descriptions.

The gravel biking routes around Pittsburgh are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the blend of urban and natural beauty, and the extensive network of trails that cater to various skill levels.

Yes, you can find natural attractions like waterfalls near some of the gravel biking areas. For instance, the Settler’s Cabin Waterfall is a notable natural monument in the region that could be incorporated into a ride or visited nearby.