Explore hidden corners of Pittsburgh – and a bit beyond – when you hit the trails of seven of the best hikes in Pittsburgh that tally three miles or less. Hikes range from one-mile to three miles and will take you past spectacular scenery and bring you closer to nature. Here are seven Pittsburgh hikes that are picture-perfect in every season.

1. Ohiopyle Ferncliff Trail
Ohiopyle State Park, 124 Main St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, USA
Yelp/Iris H.
Enjoy a leisurely two-mile hike through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Western Pennsylvania. The Ohiopyle Ferncliff Trail winds along the Youghiogheny River and past Ohiopyle Falls, the perfect spot for taking photos. Follow this scenic hike near Pittsburgh alone, with the kids, or with your beloved pup as the trail is both well-maintained and relatively easy. Visit the official website of Ohiopyle State Park for more information.
2. Spring Hollow Trail
Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, 614 Dorseyville Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15238, USA
Facebook/Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve
Spend a relaxing day among nature when you hike Spring Hollow Trail, a one-mile trail in the picturesque Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve. The hidden Fox Chapel natural oasis boasts nine trails, each under a mile. Embark on the Spring Hollow Trail, the simplest trail with which to start. The trail winds past a meadow, a stream hollow, a pond, and a forest. Stop by the official website of Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve for more information.
3. Harmony Trail
Harmony Trail Trailhead, 223-291 Wexford Bayne Rd, Wexford, PA 15090, USA
Flickr/nogwater
Drink in the spectacular natural scenery on the one-mile North Hills Harmony Trail in Wexford. The good news is, if you're still in the mood for more hiking when you finish the mile trek, you can head over to nearby North Park, where you can start along the 30-mile Rachel Carson Trail. Learn more on the official website of the Harmony Trail.

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4. Meadow Run Trail
Ohiopyle State Park, 124 Main St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, USA
Flickr/US Geological Survey
Stroll along the three-mile Meadow Run Trail, at Ohiopyle State Park, which ends with perhaps one of the most awe-inspiring views in nature: Cucumber Falls. The 30-foot waterfall is the perfect reward for completing this moderate trail that will take you past the Meadow Run Natural Water Slides. The Meadow Run Trail is open from May through September each year. View a full list of park amenities on the official website of Ohiopyle State Park.
5. Steel Valley Trail
Great Allegheny Passage, Munhall, PA, USA
Facebook/Steel Valley Trail Council
Stay close to the city as you hike along the Steel Valley Trail. The crushed limestone and paved trial, which spans two miles, welcomes hikers, bikers, and walkers. You'll trek from the Waterfront in Homestead to McKeesport (or vice-versa). Once you arrive in McKeesport, you can continue your journey to the Great Allegheny Passage, which picks up in Clairton. The Great Allegheny Passage winds to Cumberland, Maryland. Learn more on the official website of the Steel Valley Trail Council.
6. Lake Trail
Raccoon Creek State Park, 3000 PA-18, Hookstown, PA 15050, USA
Flickr/lh
Lace up your hiking shoes for your journey along Lake Trail at Raccoon Creek State Park. The picturesque 1.9-mile trail, which is moderately difficult, promises spectacular scenery, including a view of Raccoon Lake and the remnants of an 1840's stone springhouse. Find more on the official website of Raccoon Creek State Park.
7. Kildoo Trail
McConnells Mill State Park, 1761 McConnells Mill Rd, Portersville, PA 16051, USA
Flickr/David Fulmer
Be prepared for varied terrain when you hike the two-mile loop Kildoo Trail at McConnells Mill State Park. Hike adjacent to Slippery Rock Creek, along paved and rocky patches, to Eckert Bridge. Visit the official website of McConnells Mill State Park for more.

What do you think are the best hikes in Pittsburgh that are under three miles? Let us know in the comments! If you’re a history buff, you’re in luck. For a historic adventure, embark on these six trails that lead to extraordinary ruins.

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More to Explore

Best Hikes In Pittsburgh

Beth Price-Williams | March 08, 2022

Are there any historical trails in Pittsburgh?

Whether you’re a history buff or just like discovering new things, follow one of the historical trails in Pittsburgh. The Ghost Town Trail, for example, winds through several counties, including Indiana County, and passes the remnants of several once-thriving coal mining towns, including Wehrum and Vintondale. The Gerard Hiking Trail in Oil Creek State Park is perfect if you’re looking for a day hike, or you can camp overnight in one of the Adirondacks. Don’t forget your camera, as the trail passes such historic sites as Drake Well and Miller Farm.

Where are the best scenic hikes near Pittsburgh?

We probably don’t have many hikes in Pittsburgh that aren’t brimming with beauty. If you’re up for a scenic hike in Pittsburgh, follow the Emerald View Trail or the North Shore Riverfront Trail. However, if you prefer nature to cityscapes, you’ve got a ton of choices, all within reasonable driving distance. Moraine State Park, for example, is brimming with trails with lake and forest views. Wolf Rocks Trail at nearby Forbes State Forest offers jaw-dropping views all year around, especially during the fall foliage. Or you can explore the ruins of a former gun club along the Flat Rock Trail at Linn Run State Park.

Are there any low-key hikes near Pittsburgh?

Western Pennsylvania’s dotted with hiking trails that range from easy to difficult. If it’s low-key you’re in the mood for, you’ve got quite a few low-key hikes from which to choose, both in the city and beyond. If you want to stay in Pittsburgh, set off on the Emerald View Loop Trail. It’s easy, winds through several Pittsburgh neighborhoods, and boasts some of the best views of the city skyline. You might also want to head to the highest point in all of Pennsylvania – Mount Davis. A short stroll from the parking lot will take you to sensational views, or you can follow the scenic four-mile Highpoint Trail, which is drenched with amazing views.

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