Hiking’s just so good for the soul. We can breathe in the fresh air, enjoy the golden sunshine on those lovely days when it’s shining, and listen to the birds singing. Pittsburgh boasts plenty of trails that appeal to hikers of all ages and of all skills. These are six of the best hikes in Pittsburgh that are both short and sweet.

1. Frick Park Loop Trail
Flickr/Melissa McMasters
For an easy and a picturesque hike, you can’t go wrong with the 4.9-mile Frick Park Loop Trail. Stroll through the forested area that’s popular with hikers, joggers, bikers, and dog walkers. Take your time as you embrace the tranquility of the area that also features benches, where you can sit back, relax, and admire the views. Here's the official website of Frick Park.
2. Braille Trail
All Trails/Jason Thompson
North Park’s Braille Trail was designed specifically with the visually impaired in mind. It includes guiding wire along the entire length of the trail that spans just over a half of a mile. The easy trail boasts an abundance of natural beauty – from blossoming wildflowers to towering trees. Learn more on the official website of North Park.
3. Highland Park Double Loop Trail
All Trails/Heather Lodge
Explore Highland Park along the Highland Park Double Loop Trail, a 2.5-mile trail that’s perfect for hikers of all ages and all skill levels. The trail is paved, making it ideal for hikers and bikers. You can also bring your pup along as you stroll past the lake and the fountain. Head over to the official website of Highland Park for more information.

Related Stories

7 Totally Kid-Friendly Hikes Around Pittsburgh That Are 1 Mile And Under

7 Totally Kid-Friendly Hikes Around Pittsburgh That Are 1 Mile And Under

 5 Urban Hikes In Pittsburgh That Are Picture-Perfect All Year Around

5 Urban Hikes In Pittsburgh That Are Picture-Perfect All Year Around

 6 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone Around Pittsburgh Should Take

6 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone Around Pittsburgh Should Take
4. Cucumber Falls Trail
All Trails/Melissa Mohner
The trek to Cucumber Falls in Ohiopyle State Park isn’t really a hike. It’s more of a leisurely walk down a set of stairs to reach the base of the falls. If you don’t feel like or are unable to climb stairs, just stroll from the parking lot to the top of the staircase. You’ll still get beautiful views of Cucumber Falls. Stop by the official website of Ohiopyle State Park for more information.
5. Twin Hills Park Loop Trail
All Trails/Courtenay Lewis
Our next hike takes us to Mount Lebanon and the Twin Hills Park Loop Trail. The mile-long trail is rated easy and has been compared to a leisurely walk in the woods. You’ll walk up and down stairs and cross over a picturesque wooden footbridge. Visit the official website of Twin Hills Park to learn more.
6. Settlers Cabin Green Loop Trail
All Trails/Cherie Commesser
If you want to see what might be the tiniest waterfall in Allegheny County, embark on the Green Loop Trail at Settlers Cabin Park. The loop trail spans just under two miles and leads to the park’s highest point – 1,250 feet. It also features a small pool of water, picnic tables, and streams. Here's the official website of Settlers Cabin Park.

What are your favorite short and sweet hikes near Pittsburgh? Do you agree that these are some of the best hikes in Pittsburgh? Join the conversation in the comments! Do you like a helping of history with your hikes? You’ll definitely want to set off on these six historical trails around Pittsburgh.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best Hikes In Pittsburgh

Beth Price-Williams | March 17, 2022

What are the best kid-friendly hikes around Pittsburgh?

We’ve got a ton of kid-friendly attractions in Pittsburgh. However, if you’re looking for a fun and free activity the whole family will love, you can’t go wrong with a hike. Did you know we have a whole bunch of kid-friendly hikes around Pittsburgh, many of them around just a mile long? Fall Run Trail tallies a lone mile and leads to a beautiful waterfall. The .25-mile Art Witt Trail passes beautiful wildflowers in Raccoon Creek State Park while the 1.2-mile Panther Hollow Trail is perfect for exploring after a swim or a picnic at Schenley Park.

Where can I find some scenic hikes in Pittsburgh?

One of the best ways to really appreciate Western Pennsylvania is to explore it on one of the many scenic hikes around Pittsburgh. Admire the city skyline and pass through several neighborhoods along the seven-mile Riverfront Trail, which is part of the longer 33-mile Three Rivers Heritage Trail. The 2.3-mile Emerald View Trail meanders atop Mount Washington, offering spellbinding views of the Pittsburgh skyline. If you’re up for venturing a bit further from home, you’ll discover a slew of scenic trails in nearby state parks, including Ohiopyle State Park, McConnells Mill State Park, Linn Run State Park, and Laurel Hill State Park.

Is Moraine State Park worth the drive?

We’re pretty fortunate to have a ton of neighborhood and local parks in the Pittsburgh area, and we’re also a drive away from some incredible state parks, too – Moraine State Park, Keystone State Park, and Raccoon Creek State Park, to name just a few. Each boasts countless scenic hiking trails and a full menu of amenities. Moraine State Park in Portersville, in particular, is popular with hikers, boaters, and beachgoers. Lake Arthur is the highlight of the park, which allows boating and boasts two sandy beaches. The park is perfect all-year around, but you’ll definitely want to visit when the fall colors paint the landscape.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Frick Park, 1981 Beechwood Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15217, USA
North Park, 303 Pearce Mill Rd, Allison Park, PA 15101, USA
Highland Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, USA
Ohiopyle State Park, 124 Main St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, USA
Twin Hills Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15220, USA
Settlers Cabin Park, 608 Ridge Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15205, USA