Explore Pittsburgh on Two-Wheels
There is no shortage of exciting pathways and roads for families to explore in Pittsburgh. Hit the trails with your family this year and discover the breathtaking sceneries, and historical landmarks. We’ve gathered some of the best spots to bring your family to – all unique in their own way.
Be prepared to ride through Pittsburgh’s deep woodlands, and witness the beauty in which Pittsburgh’s industrial history and nature coexist. Slow down and stop to catch the views of the rivers, valleys, and the jewel-like skyline that Downtown Pittsburgh reveals at night. Are you ready? Let’s get started.
4 Spots Every ‘Burgh Family Should Bike:
Flickr: Mike Rhoads
1. Washington’s Landing
A 1.5-mile loop trail (Heritage Trail) runs along Washington’s Landing, also known as Herr’s Island. Found just off the North Shore Trail along the Allegheny River, Washington’s Landing is a small island offering a view of the river anywhere you may be, and a glittering skyline of Downtown Pittsburgh after the sun has set. There aren’t any bike rental places on the island, so be sure to bring your own.
Attractions along the trail include Washington’s Landing Marina, if you want to rent a boat or simply eat and relax, there’s a restaurant inside with outside seating overlooking the Marina. From Washington’s Landing, you and your family will enjoy a ride towards Point State Park, (known as “The Point” to locals) found on the north side of the Allegheny River. “It’s the best place to get views in the city,” says photojournalist Brian Henry.
Flickr: Steve Elgersma
2. Point State Park (The Point)
Point State Park is a National Historic Landmark and a favorite of locals, like Ryan Zarichnak. “I love that the park is open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset,” says Ryan. It sits at the intersection of three rivers: The Allegheny and Monongahela rivers, forming the Ohio River. Families will find two biking/hiking trails: The Three Rivers Heritage Trail (37 miles) and the Great Allegheny Passage Rail Trail (141 miles). Make sure to visit their website for special events.
The Three Rivers Heritage Trail sits on both sides of the Allegheny Monongahela and Ohio Rivers. The trail consists of several unique trail sections. Going down the Great Allegheny Rail Trail, you will cycle through valleys, loop around mountains, and pass through three rivers: The Casselman, Youghiogheny, and Monongahela. The trail traces through a chain of cyclist-friendly trail towns with access to lodging, camping, restaurants, and bike shops.
Flickr: Cam Miller
3. Frick Park
Frick Park, the largest municipal park in Pittsburgh covering 644 acres of woodlands and about 10 miles of multi-track gentle sloped-trails. A Frick Park cyclist on Reddit describes the trails as, “…generally wide, even and well-maintained. You’ll run into some unevenness on the western side of the park, by the environmental center,” he adds. But because most the roads are paved, a regular bike will do for Frick Park. If you plan to hit some dirt roads, a mountain bike would work best.
It is common for cyclists to share trails with people walking their dogs or with hikers. Frick park is lovely to visit in the fall for its rich red, yellow and orange colored leaves, in the spring for the stunning wildflowers and in the winter, Frick Park is a magical winter wonderland.
Flickr: Clio1789
4. Highland Park
Highland Park is a residential neighborhood in the northeastern part of Pittsburgh. The public park is perfect for cyclist and families looking for a lot to see and do. Inside Highland Park you’ll find The Washington Boulevard Bike Track – a half mile paved oval loop designed for elite as well as beginning cyclists and children . However, in the summer months, the track is reserved for racing on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays from 6:00pm-8:30pm.
Aside from the bike trail, there are other things to keep you and your family busy. While you’re in Highland Park, you can stop by and enjoy the view of Lake Carnegie, and even fish there if you want to. You’ll also find walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, water and reservoirs. Within the park, there is also The Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium. And you will without a doubt enjoy the Victorian-era style of the park’s main entry.
Conclusion
You don’t have to go far to have fun, Pittsburghers. There are plenty of exciting family adventures to explore on two wheels. These 4 spots provide something different for everyone to appreciate with trails that beckon gorgeous sites and landmarks to explore and learn about.
PedalPGH: Kids tickets are just $5 bucks!
UPMC Health Plan PedalPGH is for the whole family
Save the Date: PedalPGH is August 26th! Registration includes a limited-edition T-shirt, PedalPGH water bottle, festive rest stops with amazing snacks, route signage marking every turn, cue sheets, ride marshals, post-ride refreshments, and a Finish Line Festival.
Register for UPMC Health Plan today
Save the Date: PedalPGH is August 26th! Registration includes a limited-edition T-shirt, PedalPGH water bottle, festive rest stops with amazing snacks, route signage marking every turn, cue sheets, ride marshals, post-ride refreshments, and a Finish Line Festival.
Register for UPMC Health Plan today
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