The best cycling routes in Allegheny County

Allegheny County offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 160 options available on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, including easy, moderate, and challenging rides.

You'll find diverse terrain, from relatively flat, paved paths along riverfronts to crushed limestone rail-trails. The region's geography, shaped by the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers, provides picturesque waterfront views and routes through serene forests and river gorges. Many trails are developed from former railway lines, offering gentle grades.

Yes, Allegheny County has numerous easy routes suitable for families and beginners. Many of the rail-trails offer flat, accessible surfaces. For example, the North Shore Trail – Hot Metal Bridge loop from Allegheny County is an easy 16.7-mile ride along riverfront paths with city skyline views. Another great option is the North Park Entrance – Lake Shore Drive loop from Nature Access Trail parking area, which circles the scenic North Park Lake.

Many routes provide excellent scenic views. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail – Hot Metal Bridge loop from Sutersville offers extensive riverfront cycling with views of Pittsburgh's urban landscape and historical bridges. For natural beauty, the Allegheny River Trail (north of Pittsburgh) features spectacular scenery along the designated national wild and scenic river, including notable tunnels. You can also explore highlights like the Great Allegheny Passage Trailhead – Point State Park.

Yes, many routes in Allegheny County are designed as loops, offering a varied experience without retracing your steps. The Montour Trail and South Park Loop is a popular 12.5-mile circular route combining a prominent rail-trail with a county park. Another option is the Homestead Pump House – Three Rivers Heritage Trail loop from Wood Street.

Yes, Allegheny County has routes that pass near or feature waterfalls. The Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from Homestead is a challenging route that includes the Red Waterfall. Other notable waterfalls in the region include Settler’s Cabin Waterfall and Rachel Carson Falls, which can be explored via nearby trails.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive and well-maintained rail-trail network, the diverse scenery ranging from urban riverfronts to serene forests, and the historical attractions that enrich the cycling experience. The variety of trail surfaces and difficulty levels also ensures options for all abilities.

Allegheny County is home to a significant portion of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP Trail), an iconic 150-mile rail-trail that connects downtown Pittsburgh through Western Pennsylvania to Cumberland, Maryland. This trail can be combined with the C&O Canal Towpath for an even longer multi-day adventure to Washington D.C., totaling 334.5 miles.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant weather for cycling, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. However, many trails are accessible year-round. Some county parks, like North Park, offer opportunities for wildlife viewing, such as bald eagles, even in winter.

Many of the major rail-trails and county parks in Allegheny County have designated trailheads with parking facilities. For example, the Montour Trail has trailheads every few miles, making access convenient. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information at the starting point of your chosen tour.

Absolutely. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail system, which runs along the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, provides excellent urban cycling with stunning views of Pittsburgh's skyline, PNC Park, the Three Sisters Bridges, and Acrisure Stadium. The North Shore Trail – View of the Andy Warhol Bridge loop from Millvale is a great example of a route offering these iconic city views.