It’s finally summer and it’s the perfect time to strap on your hiking boots or walking shoes and get outside to enjoy the fresh air and vitamin D. Pittsburgh is home to so many beautiful trails that are perfect for the whole family to pack up and experience together. 

I’ve gathered my top five favorite trails in the beautiful rolling hills of Pennsylvania that are sure to build summer memories that will last long after your boots have been cleaned and the trails become snowy.

Three Rivers Heritage Trail is a 24-mile trail that has sections on both banks of Pittsburgh’s three beautiful rivers that allow easy access to city neighborhoods and local attractions the kids will love like Highmark Stadium, the Andy Warhol Museum, and PNC Park! This trail features different signs that point out historical events, native wildlife, and significant places along the way, making it an interactive and learning experience, as well as a lovely trail. 

If you’re looking for a charming park and you don’t want to leave Pittsburgh’s city limit, look no further than Frick Park and Tranquil Trail. Frick Park is the largest of Pittsburgh’s historical regional parks and stretches over 644 acres of beautiful land from Point Breeze down to Monongahela River. An awesome thing for the family to do is bird watching and if you stop at Clayton Hill there have been over 100 bird species recorded, so you’re sure to see some unique birds. The best part about Frick Park is the Environmental Center where kids love to learn about nature and then take a slide at the famous Blue Slide Playground. The best trail in Frick Park is Tranquil Trail which truly lives up to its name. 

Another favorite of mine is Lake Shore Loop in North Park just 13 miles outside of Pittsburgh. The Lake Shore Loop is 5 paved miles that follow the outline of North Park Lake, giving you a stunning view from any angle. If this is not something you or your family would be interested in that are 43 total miles of trail that you can choose from that are equally great for biking, walking, or running.  

One of my favorite parks in Pittsburgh is Schenley Park. This beautiful park contains 456 acres of open trails and woods, there is tons of room to get out and enjoy nature. One of the trails I enjoy the most is Lower Panther Hollow Trail, which is an easy trail of 1.2 miles and follows a peaceful stream that starts at Panther Hollow Lake.  

Last, but certainly not least is the Double Loop Trail in Highland Park. Located right by the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium this park has nearly 800 acres to explore! The Double Loop Trail is an easy, 2-mile family-friendly trail that is fun for everyone. Look out for the waterfall and make sure that you make time for the park’s beautiful gardens, reservoirs, swimming pool, and more! 

I hope that one of these beautiful trails or parks has sparked your interest to get outside this summer and enjoy all that our beautiful city of Pittsburgh has to offer!