Three Rivers Heritage Trail and Sewickley Loop

The route offers a varied cycling experience. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail sections are primarily flat and paved, making them generally easy for road cycling. In contrast, the Sewickley Loop portions can feature significant elevation changes, with gradients up to 11.7%, and may include unpaved sections, some with gravel, which might be less suitable for traditional road tires. Overall, it's a mix of urban paved paths and more challenging suburban roads with some gravel.

This route is quite long, covering nearly 80 kilometers (about 50 miles). For a racebike, it typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes of active cycling time. However, plan for a longer overall duration to account for stops, enjoying the scenery, and any breaks you might need.

You'll experience a diverse range of sights. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail offers panoramic views of Pittsburgh's urban landscape, its three rivers, and iconic spots like downtown Pittsburgh and Point State Park. Highlights include the Sewickley Bridge, View of Pittsburgh from Point of View Park, and Saint Mary of the Mount Church. The Sewickley area provides a different feel, with wooded areas, residential streets, and views of the suburban landscape, including the Audubon Greenway Conservation Area 1.

While sections of the Three Rivers Heritage Trail are flat and paved, making them suitable for all skill levels and families, the full 80-kilometer route with its moderate difficulty, significant elevation gain (over 700 meters), and potential gravel sections in the Sewickley Loop might be challenging for beginners or young children. Experienced road cyclists with good fitness will find it more enjoyable. Consider shorter segments of the Three Rivers Heritage Trail for a more family-friendly experience.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter cycling is possible, especially on the paved Three Rivers Heritage Trail sections, but some unpaved or less maintained parts of the Sewickley Loop might be less accessible or comfortable due to snow or ice.

Yes, the route incorporates significant portions of other well-known paths. It utilizes sections of the Three Rivers Heritage Trail (24% of the route) and the Great Allegheny Passage (9% of the route). You'll also encounter parts of the 9-11 Trail (Pennsylvania Pittsburgh area) and the Eliza Furnace Trail.

The Three Rivers Heritage Trail is generally dog-friendly, with many sections allowing leashed dogs. For the Sewickley Loop, which uses public roads and various paths, dog policies can vary. Always keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other cyclists and pedestrians, especially in busier areas.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Three Rivers Heritage Trail or the public roads and paths that make up the Sewickley Loop. These are publicly accessible routes.

For the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, numerous access points and parking lots are available along the Pittsburgh riverfronts, including near Point State Park or Station Square. For the Sewickley Loop, parking can be found in various public lots or on-street in the Sewickley borough. Public transport options, such as Pittsburgh's bus system, can get you close to many points along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, but reaching the Sewickley area by public transport with a bike might require more planning.

Yes, especially along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail in Pittsburgh, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and public restrooms in the neighborhoods it connects. In the Sewickley area, there are also amenities available in the borough itself. It's always a good idea to carry water and some snacks, especially for the longer, more rural sections of the Sewickley Loop.

Given the route's length and varied terrain, bring plenty of water, snacks, and a repair kit for your bike. If your road bike has narrower tires, consider if they are suitable for potential gravel sections in the Sewickley Loop. Dress in layers, as conditions can change, and always wear a helmet. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended.