Sometimes there’s simply no better way to recharge than by embracing the beauty of nature on a relaxing hike. Fortunately, Pittsburgh has plenty of ideal paths for hikers of all abilities – whether you’re looking for something short, sweet, and easy, or you prefer more of a challenge. Here are some of the best hikes in Pittsburgh that are also easy for adventurers of all ages.

1. Highland Park Douple Loop Trail
Highland Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, USA
Yelp/Hana T.
Embark on a leisurely two-mile hike along the Highland Park Double Trail Loop. The easy trail traverses through the sprawling 800-acre Highland Park on the outskirts of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium. Here's the official website of Highland Park.
2. North Shore Trail
North Shore Trail, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
Flickr/Chris Collins
The North Shore Riverfront Trail spans eight miles, but don't let that deter you. The relatively easy hike in Pittsburgh follows a flat path as you'll pass such iconic city sights as The Carnegie Science Center, Heinz Field, and PNC Park. Hike the whole eight miles, which lead to Millvale, or simply loop back to your starting point. Find a trail map and more info on North Shore Riverfront Trail on All Trails.
3. South Side Riverfront Trail
South Side Flats, Pittsburgh, PA 15203, USA
Yelp/Kristin B.
The South Side Riverfront Trail follows along the Monongahela River. The five-mile hike, which spans from Riverfront Park to Station Square, features a path predominately made of crushed limestone that will take you by railroad tracks and through lush green spaces. Find more information on South Side Riverfront Park and Trail.

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4. Frick Park Trail
Frick Park, 1981 Beechwood Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15217, USA
Flickr/MJ
Embrace nature – and discover some of the area's wildlife – when you hit the Frick Park Loop Trail, a winding five-mile paved path that is perfect for hikers, dog walkers, joggers, and even just for a leisurely stroll. For your best chance of spotting wildlife, head out on your hike in the early morning before the park often gets busy. View a trail map and more information on the Frick Park Loop Trail on All Trails.
5. Harmony Trail
Harmony Trail Trailhead, 223-291 Wexford Bayne Rd, Wexford, PA 15090, USA
Flickr/Nogwater
Harmony Trail in Wexford, which starts at Brennan Road, promises a relaxing experience as you hike, jog, or stroll along the easy one-mile path. One of the easiest hikes in Pittsburgh, the hiking trail follows along railroad tracks and connects to the 30-mile Rachel Carson Trail. Stop by the official website of the Harmony Trail for more information.
6. Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve
Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, 614 Dorseyville Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15238, USA
Flickr/jessica_mcp
Choose from one of nine easy hiking trails when you visit Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve in Fox Chapel. The sprawling nature reserve features a total of five miles of hiking trails, broken down into nine separate trails, many of them less than a mile long. Learn more on the official website of Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve.

These are just six of the best hikes in Pittsburgh. Do you have a favorite easy hike in Pittsburgh? Tell us about it in the comments!  For a more challenging hike, try one of the nine best trails for hiking if you love the outdoors.

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More to Explore

Best Hikes In Pittsburgh

Beth Price-Williams | March 08, 2022

What are the best easy hikes in Pittsburgh?

Sometimes we just want to enjoy nature without worrying about anything, including challenging terrain. Fortunately, we’ve got a bunch of easy hikes in Pittsburgh that are perfect for getting outdoors, breathing in the fresh air, and connecting with nature. The Braille Trail in North Park, designed specifically for the visually-impaired, is easy and brimming with such natural beauty as wildflowers. Cucumber Falls Trail is more of a leisurely stroll with a beautiful payoff – the waterfall of the same name. The Green Loop Trail at Settler’s Cabin leads to an unnamed waterfall, hidden in the middle of a lush green wooded area.

Can you recommend any scenic hikes in Pittsburgh?

Every Pittsburgher knows that we have one of the most beautiful – if not, the most beautiful – skylines in the country. While we can easily admire the views from one of the observation decks atop Mount Washington, we can also hit one of the scenic hikes in Pittsburgh that boasts stellar views – like the Emerald View Trail. The 2.3-mile loop trail meanders through several neighborhoods, including Mount Washington and Allentown. One of the highlights of the trail, aside from those jaw-dropping views, is Emerald View Park atop Mount Washington. It offers a full menu of amenities, including a playground and an off-leash dog park.

Where can I find hiking trails near me?

No matter where you live in Pittsburgh and its suburbs, you’ll find hiking trails that wind through all kind of settings – neighborhoods, state parks, and downtown. If you’re near or in the city, you’ll definitely want to check out one of the best urban hikes in Pittsburgh. The North Shore Riverfront Trail, for example, offers sweeping views of the city skyline. On hot summer days, stop by the water steps to cool off. If you’re up for climbing some of the steps Pittsburgh is so famous for, you can’t go wrong with the nearly four-mile South Side Steps and Hills Walk. All that hard work, however, will be worth it for the views of the skyline that await.

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