BikeFest is concluding its fifth annual celebration of bicycling in Pittsburgh with several around-the-town tours this weekend.
The Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area will lead a historic tour of industrial Pittsburgh beginning at 9 a.m. today at Bessemer Court at Station Square. It’s a leisurely six-mile, 90-minute ride along the paved South Side and Eliza Furnace trails.
The organization said guides will identify and discuss the visible vestiges of former industrial sites and share stories of the workers who once made the region the steelmaking capital of the world.
If you can’t make today’s tour, there’s another one Sept. 12. Private tours also are available. Advanced reservations are required; call 412-464-4020. Tickets can be purchased online at www.riversofsteel.org. The cost is $10 for members; $20 for non-members.
The Allegheny Riverfront Vision historic bike tour, another 90-minute easy-pace ride with numerous stops, pedals through the Strip District and Lawrenceville. It will be led by Venture Outdoors, Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation, Perkins Eastman and the Urban Redevelopment Authority.
Bike Pittsburgh and Free Ride, the organizations that annually extend an open invitation to groups and individuals to participate in BikeFest, said there will be stops to discuss historic architecture, enjoy riverfront views and review plans for the riverfront. The ride is free.