7 Unforgettable Adventures Around Pittsburgh To Save In Your Back Pocket For Later
By Beth Price-Williams|Published April 22, 2020
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Life’s certainly turned upside down of late, hasn’t it? Fortunately, we won’t be in lockdown forever. That means we have brighter days to look forward to and for which to plan. Now’s the perfect time to sit down and start thinking about all the adventures you want to have when our new normal arrives. Here are seven unforgettable adventures around Pittsburgh to get you started.
Embrace nature – and bring your pup along – when you head to Hartwood Acres Park. The spectacular 629-acre park features a full menu of activities. Stop by the off-leash dog area. Set off on a hiking trail. During the summer from June through August, you can also take in a Sunday evening concert. (Check in advance, however, as the schedule may change due to the coronavirus.)
Slip on a pair of comfy shoes for your visit to Buttermilk Falls Natural Area. You’ll have to follow a short trail, which takes around 10 minutes along a tree-lined path that includes a set of stone stairs. The trail leads straight to Buttermilk Falls. Dip your toes in the water. Walk behind the waterfall. Or grab a seat and enjoy the sound of the water as it tumbles down.
Explore some – or all – of the 452-acre Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. You’ll definitely want to wear a pair of comfortable shoes, if you plan to stroll along the trails. The sprawling garden features an enchanting fairy garden, a shimmering pond with stepping stones, and charming footbridges. Opt for the self-guided tour, or join a guided tour for a separate fee.
Set off on an outdoor adventure at Powdermill Nature Reserve, a part of the Carnegie Museums in Pittsburgh. Approximately an hour from downtown Pittsburgh, the sprawling nature reserve features several hiking trails, allowing you to explore the more than 2,000-acre outdoor destination. You can also stop by the Nature Center, where you can check out the indoor stream and other exhibits.
Spend a day, a weekend, or an entire week at Ohiopyle State Park, where you can pitch a tent or rent a cabin for a bit of camping. The massive park offers something for everyone – from sensational waterfalls to scenic trails. Go kayaking or canoeing on the river. Soar across the sky on a zipline. If you’re visiting on a hot summer day, slide down the natural waterslide.
Sprawled across 90 lush acres, Sahli Nature Park sits not too far from the hustle and bustle of Beaver County. However, you’ll find sheer tranquility as you explore the nature park. Don’t forget your camera, because you’ll definitely want to snap shots of the wildlife – from ducks to butterflies – that you pass, of the waterfall, and of the shimmering pond. You can also relax on one of the benches dotted throughout the nature park.
If it’s been far too long since you’ve spent time in Pittsburgh, head out on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail. The scenic trail spans 24 miles and will take you to some of the most popular spots in Pittsburgh – Heinz Field, Station Square, and the South Side. (However, you don’t have to walk the whole trail to enjoy it.)
What are some of the first adventures around Pittsburgh you plan to have when life returns to our new normal? Let us know in the comments! Then let us know if you agree that these are 10 things Pittsburghers will always be stubborn about.
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