Three Hikes Near Pittsburgh

Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Ian Oldaker is an operations and business strategy executive who specializes in organization building and complex project management. In his free time, Ian Oldaker enjoys hiking.

While Pittsburgh is a major city, there are many nearby hiking options for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are three moderate-to-difficult hikes within 75 minutes of downtown Pittsburgh.

1. Laurel Highlands. Located 75 minutes away in Ohiopyle State Park, Laurel Highlands is an 11.2-mile trail with an elevation gain of 2,749 feet. This trail affords stunning views of the park and the Youghiogheny River, as well as challenging climbs.

2. Slippery Rock Gorge Trail. Found in McConnells Mill State Park, 45 minutes outside of the city, this 15-mile trek achieves an elevation gain of 1,535 feet. The trail goes 7.5 miles from the Hell’s Hollow parking lot to the eponymous mill, passing bridges, waterfalls, and rock formations along the way.

3. Pine Knob Trail. This 3.9-mile trek is 75 minutes away in Forbes State Forest. Less challenging than the other hikes on this list, this lesser-known trail provides solitude and wilderness, as well as a gain of 833 feet. It is not uncommon for hikers to find themselves alone on the trail.