North Park (Wildwood) – Rachel Carson Trail loop from McCandless
North Park (Wildwood) – Rachel Carson Trail loop from McCandless
4.5
(6327)
7,127
riders
North Park (Wildwood) – Rachel Carson Trail loop from McCandless
01:52
25.0km
340m
Mountain biking
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
2.42 km
Kotobuki Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
8.37 km
North Park (Wildwood)
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
12.6 km
Rachel Carson Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
25.0 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
9.61 km
6.27 km
5.81 km
1.13 km
938 m
899 m
267 m
Surfaces
12.6 km
8.49 km
1.29 km
1.12 km
808 m
586 m
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Elevation
Highest point (380 m)
Lowest point (300 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Thursday 9 July
30°C
18°C
68 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging mountain biking route that truly tests your endurance, the North Park (Wildwood) – Rachel Carson Trail loop from McCandless delivers. This difficult 15.5-mile (25.0 km) mountain biking route packs in 1118 feet (341 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 1 hour and 51 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for experienced riders seeking a substantial workout and varied terrain in the Pittsburgh North Park area.
What to expect on North Park (Wildwood) – Rachel Carson Trail loop from McCandless
Expect a dynamic ride through the diverse landscapes of North Park. The route weaves through forested areas, including segments of the Rachel Carson Trail within North Park, known for its natural beauty. You'll encounter varied terrain, from challenging inclines to rewarding downhill stretches, particularly around areas like Wildwood and its popular "Sandy Cliffs" section. This makes it a ride best suited for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers comfortable with significant elevation changes and technical sections.
Planning your visit
While the full Rachel Carson Trail is primarily for hiking and discourages bikes on most of its length, this specific loop utilizes designated mountain biking sections within North Park. Always respect trail signage and local regulations to ensure you're on bike-friendly paths. Parking is generally available within North Park near the McCandless area, but it's always wise to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. Check local conditions before you go, as trail integrity can vary with weather.
Trail details
- Distance: 15.5 miles (25.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 1118 feet (341 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 51 minutes
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