Three Rivers Heritage Trail – Hot Metal Bridge loop from Rodef Shalom Congregation
Three Rivers Heritage Trail – Hot Metal Bridge loop from Rodef Shalom Congregation
2.7
(7)
78
riders
Three Rivers Heritage Trail – Hot Metal Bridge loop from Rodef Shalom Congregation
01:16
21.0km
120m
Cycling
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
10.5 km
Three Rivers Heritage Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
14.7 km
Hot Metal Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
21.0 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
18.3 km
1.59 km
918 m
261 m
Surfaces
11.7 km
8.94 km
373 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (290 m)
Lowest point (220 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 2 July
36°C
23°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an easy touring cycling route that blends Pittsburgh's industrial past with vibrant urban views, the Three Rivers Heritage Trail – Hot Metal Bridge loop from Rodef Shalom Congregation is a solid choice. This 13.1-mile (21.0 km) route, rated easy, offers about 402 feet (123 metres) of elevation gain and takes roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. It's perfect for cyclists seeking a relaxed ride with plenty of scenic viewpoints and a taste of the city's unique character, especially if you're comfortable navigating city streets to reach the main trail.
What to expect on Three Rivers Heritage Trail – Hot Metal Bridge loop from Rodef Shalom Congregation
Once you connect to the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, the experience transforms into a mostly flat, paved journey along the Monongahela River. You'll cycle past the SouthSide Works, an area bustling with shops and restaurants, and enjoy panoramic views of the Pittsburgh skyline. The highlight is undoubtedly crossing the historic Hot Metal Bridge, a beautifully restored rail trestle that offers unique vantage points. While the riverfront sections are generally flat, be prepared for some gentle inclines on the bridge itself. This route is well-suited for touring cyclists of varying skill levels who appreciate a mix of urban exploration and historical context.
Planning your visit
Starting from Rodef Shalom Congregation in Shadyside means you'll need to navigate several miles through city streets, which can be hilly and have traffic, before reaching the flatter riverfront trails. There isn't a direct dedicated cycling route from the congregation to the Hot Metal Bridge loop, so plan your initial approach carefully. The trail itself is accessible year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant cycling conditions. Parking near Rodef Shalom Congregation is available, but consider public transport options to avoid city driving if you prefer a more direct trail access point.
Trail details
- Distance: 13.1 miles (21.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 402 feet (123 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 15 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free