The Best Hiking Trails
Near Pittsburgh, PA
Prepare for Adventure: Hiking & Biking in Pennsylvania
Whether you’re chasing mountaintop views, winding through forested valleys, or trying the emerging trend of rail biking in Pennsylvania, you’ll find endless opportunities for outdoor adventure just minutes from your campsite or cabin.
Why Laurel Highlands Is a
Hiker and Cyclist’s Paradise
If you’ve been searching for the best hiking in Pennsylvania or looking to expand your favorite biking trails Pittsburgh style, the Laurel Highlands has your route ready.
Biking and Hiking Places
Near Pittsburgh Roaring Run
Ohiopyle State Park Trails – 15 Minutes
Ohiopyle, PA
This is the heart of hiking and biking in the region. Ohiopyle State Park offers a stunning variety of trails, from waterfall hikes to mountaintop overlooks, easily making it one of the best hiking spots in Pennsylvania.
Hiking Highlights:
- Ferncliff Peninsula Trail: Easy, 1.8 miles. Loops around a lush peninsula filled with rare plant species and river views.
- Cucumber Falls Trail: Short, steep path to one of PA’s most iconic waterfalls. Great for photos and families.
- Jonathan Run Trail: Moderate, 2.5 miles. Waterfall-filled path that’s magical in every season.
- Sugarloaf Trail System: Challenging single-track for advanced mountain bikers.
- GAP Connector Trails: Gravel and paved connectors lead to the Great Allegheny Passage.
Great Allegheny Passage (GAP Trail) – 15 Minutes (Access at Ohiopyle)
Trail Type: Rail trail
The GAP Trail is a world-class rail trail stretching 150 miles from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, MD. The Ohiopyle to Confluence segment offers the most scenic biking in Pittsburgh, PA area, hugging the Youghiogheny River and cutting through lush hardwood forest. It’s flat, car-free, and perfect for all ages and skill levels.
- Ideal for hybrid bikes, road bikes, and families
- Plenty of riverside rest stops and picnic areas
- Access right from Ohiopyle, just minutes from Roaring Run
Laurel Mountain Trail System – 40 Minutes
Location: Laurel Mountain Division of Forbes State Forest
A premier destination for the best mountain biking in Pennsylvania. With over 20 miles of singletrack and doubletrack trails through hemlock groves, mossy boulders, and fern-filled corridors, it’s a technical, thrilling ride for intermediate to advanced bikers.
Trail features:
- Climbs, drops, and rock gardens
- Well-marked loops and connectors
- Popular with cross-country and endurance riders
Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail – 30 Minutes
Trail Type: Point-to-point, 70 miles total
One of the most iconic hiking trails around Pittsburgh, the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail stretches 70 miles from Ohiopyle to Johnstown. You don’t need to be a thru-hiker to enjoy it. Shorter access points are scattered throughout, offering manageable day hikes with fantastic views.
What you’ll love:
- Trail shelters for longer excursions
- Elevation changes for a great workout
- Forest, rock outcrops, and overlook vistas
Bear Run Nature Reserve – 25 Minutes
Location: Mill Run, PA (near Fallingwater)
Managed by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Bear Run offers over 20 miles of hiking around Pittsburgh through unspoiled woodlands, ridgelines, and creeks. It’s a peaceful, low-traffic alternative to the more popular state parks.
Trail Features:
- Beautiful fall foliage and spring wildflowers
- Moderate loops with gentle elevation
- Often combined with a visit to Fallingwater
What to Expect on the Trails
Whether you're hiking or biking, here’s what makes Laurel Highlands trail experiences truly special:
- Wildlife sightings – deer, foxes, eagles, and the occasional black bear
- Water features – creeks, waterfalls, and natural slides
- Seasonal variety – lush green summers, fiery fall color, and peaceful spring blooms
- Starry skies and quiet forests – end your day at Roaring Run beneath the stars
Stay Closer, Explore Deeper
- Spacious RV and tent sites for comfortable camping
- Rustic cabins with modern touches for post-trail relaxation
- Hot showers and clean bathhouses to refresh after the trail
- On-site country store for snacks, drinks, and last-minute gear
- Fire rings and picnic tables at every site
- Pet-friendly—because furry trail companions are always welcome
- Friendly community and camp events from Memorial Day to Labor Day
