Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United States
Pennsylvania
Allegheny County
Plum

Boyce Park loop

Easy

3.3

(7)

99

hikers

Boyce Park loop

01:47

6.65km

80m

Hiking

The Boyce Park loop offers a delightful journey through diverse landscapes, from quiet deciduous forests with large oak trees to open meadows and areas overlooking the park's ski slopes. You'll find sections winding alongside small streams that cascade over rocks, and in spring, the woodlands burst with vibrant wildflowers. The terrain varies from gently rolling paths to occasional short, steep descents and climbs, keeping the 4.1-mile (6.6 km) route engaging without being overly strenuous.

Planning your visit to Boyce Park is straightforward, with ample parking available. While the trails are mostly well-marked, it's a good idea to consult a trail map or the Allegheny County Parks app for navigation, especially if you plan to explore the interconnected routes. This easy hike, typically completed in about 1 hour and 47 minutes with 262 feet (80 metres) of elevation gain, is suitable for most fitness levels and is a great option for a morning or afternoon outing.

Boyce Park is unique in Allegheny County for its ski lodge and winter sports facilities, but it's also a haven for year-round outdoor activities. The park features meadows planted with native species, providing crucial habitat for pollinators like butterflies and birds. It's a popular spot for both hikers and mountain bikers, and its dog-friendly policy makes it an excellent choice for a family adventure.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

3.58 km

Boyce Park

Highlight • Forest

Boyce Park'´is a popular recreational area in Allegheny County. During the winter, the park features ski slopes and the only downhill skiing hill in the whole county. In the warmer months, it offers picnic areas, playgrounds and hiking trails leading through wildflowers and along open meadows.

Tip by

B

6.65 km

End point

Parking

Loading

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.98 km

494 m

152 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

3.01 km

2.42 km

1.04 km

152 m

< 100 m

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (380 m)

Lowest point (320 m)

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Sunday 23 August

23°C

16°C

62 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

guide_signup

Want to know more?

Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.

Sign up for free

This route was planned by komoot.

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Print

Share

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Report restricted access

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Boyce Park loop trail?

Boyce Park offers multiple parking areas. For the specific Boyce Park loop, you'll want to find parking within the Plum Township section of the park. Given the extensive network, specific trailhead parking might vary depending on your exact starting point, but ample parking is generally available throughout the park.

Is the Boyce Park loop trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trails in Boyce Park are generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all park visitors and protect the natural environment.

What is the best time of year to hike the Boyce Park loop?

The Boyce Park loop can be enjoyed year-round. Spring offers beautiful wildflowers, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is great for lush greenery, and winter provides a unique, quiet experience, especially if there's snow. Always check local conditions before heading out, as some sections might be muddy after rain or snowmelt.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required for Boyce Park?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Boyce Park or its hiking trails. The park is open to the public for recreational use.

What is the terrain like on the Boyce Park loop?

The terrain on this loop generally meanders through densely wooded areas. You can expect varied surfaces, often featuring roots and rocks, though nothing overly technical. Some sections might include small stream crossings or follow streams. There can also be parts with crushed gravel or old access roads.

Is the Boyce Park loop suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, the Boyce Park loop is rated as 'easy' and is suitable for beginners and families. While there are minor elevation changes and some sections with roots and rocks, it's generally a manageable and enjoyable hike for most fitness levels. The park's extensive network also allows for shorter, easier excursions if desired.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the route?

The route offers classic mixed woodlands scenery, with areas featuring large oak trees. You might encounter eye-catching valley views, especially during leaf-off seasons. In spring, wildflowers add to the natural beauty. The park's conservation efforts also mean diverse habitats and potential wildlife sightings.

Does the trail pass through any notable areas or landmarks?

The route is entirely within the beautiful Boyce Park, which is known for its extensive natural areas. While the loop itself focuses on the natural forest, the park as a whole has historical significance, named after William D. Boyce, founder of the Boy Scouts of America, and contains historical elements like the Carpenter Log House.

Does the Boyce Park loop intersect with other trails?

Yes, the Boyce Park loop is part of an extensive network of trails within Boyce Park. This specific route intersects with several other named trails, including sections of the White / Red Dot, Yellow / Black Dot Trail, White Trail, and Orange / Brown Dot Trail, among others. This allows for customization of your hike if you wish to extend or shorten your journey.

Are there any tips for navigating the trails in Boyce Park?

While many trails in Boyce Park are well-blazed, it's always a good idea to pay attention, especially where trails split or intersect with unblazed paths. Using a reliable navigation app like komoot can be very helpful to stay on track, given the park's extensive and interconnected trail system.

Are there any cafes or restaurants near Boyce Park?

Yes, Boyce Park is conveniently located near Monroeville and Plum Townships, which offer a variety of dining options. You'll find numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants within a short drive of the park, perfect for a post-hike meal or refreshment.

Nearby routes

Easy

8

Maple Springs Loop

00:54h

3.42km

30m

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesRedeem a voucherHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy