Pittsburgh's best hiking spots and nature trails

If you're yearning to spend more time outdoors in greater Pittsburgh, you're in luck. Use this list of popular Pittsburgh area hiking spots and nature trails to plan your next outdoors excursion.

Baker Trail

A part of the Rachel Carson Trails Conservancy in Pittsburgh, Baker Trail is a 133-mile total hiking and backpacking trail just north of the metro area. Adventurers who choose this trail as a means of exploring the great outdoors will journey through woodlands and farms running alongside rivers and creeks.

North Country National Scenic Trail

Hills and valleys frame this awe-inspiring area known for its scenic views. In addition to Pennsylvania, the North Country National Scenic Trail also runs through New York, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota and North Dakota. In Pittsburgh, the trail traverses through the Allegheny National Forest.

More: Best Pittsburgh national parks | Best Pittsburgh camping spots

Ohiopyle Falls

Water is the theme for this hiking and trekking trail that runs alongside the natural beauty of Ohiopyle Falls. Located in Ohiopyle State Park, hikers and trekkers can take any number of trails through the park area for stunning views, but take the Ferncliff trail, which is about 2 miles in length, for the best views.

Rock Falls

Known by most locals as a decent spot to sunbathe on the rocks while running water trickles around you, Rock Falls also is a good choice for hikers, both novice and experienced. Travel along the creek for an active hike and take in the scenes around you.

Raccoon Creek State Park

The largest and most visited state park in Pennsylvania has an abundance of hiking trails. At Raccoon Creek State Park, 42 miles of hiking trails are located in pockets throughout out the park, including multi-use, hiking only and wildflower reserve trails.

Rachel Carson Trail

This 38-mile day hiking trail is the namesake of a larger collective of hiking trails in the area, The Rachel Carson Trail Conservancy. The trail was named after an early ecologist whose research influenced much of the knowledge known about the area today. Hikers will journey through and among county parks, suburban homes and farms.

Tranquil Trail (Frick Park)

Frick Park is a regional park in Pittsburgh and is where hikers and trekkers can find Tranquil Trail. The park area is a combined 644 acres and makes up one of the metro area's younger parks. Mountain biking or leisure walking are other activities that can be done in this expansive park.

Cucumber Falls

Yet another waterfall hiking jackpot, Cucumber Falls is an offshoot of Ohiopyle Falls. The focus of this area is the waterfall that cascades down a 30-foot drop. It is recommended to park at the Cucumber Falls trailhead, walk a short bit and head down some steps to be at the foot of the waterfall.

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