Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN PITTSBURGH
Planning a cycling trip to Pittsburgh? You’re in for a ride—literally. This former steel town has reinvented itself as a bike-friendly destination with gorgeous riverfront trails, iconic bridges, and challenging hill climbs that reward you with epic views. Whether you’re rolling in for a weekend getaway or setting off on a longer bike tour, Pittsburgh brings the perfect mix of urban charm and natural beauty. This guide covers the must-ride trails, hidden neighborhood loops, and day tours that'll make you fall in love with this gritty-yet-gorgeous city.
Riverfront trails and bridge views
If there’s one thing Pittsburgh does right, it’s rivers. The city is built at the meeting point of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers—aka the “Three Rivers”—and the paths along these waterways are some of the best in the country for cyclists. They’re smooth, scenic, and surprisingly peaceful for a major metro area.
Iconic riverfront routes
Three Rivers Heritage Trail – The star of the show. This 33-mile network hugs all three rivers and connects to neighborhoods, parks, and stadiums. A dream for sightseeing cyclists.
Point State Park Loop – Ride around the city’s famous fountain at the confluence of the rivers. Great for quick spins and views of the skyline and bridges.
North Shore Trail – Cruise past PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium. It’s flat, wide, and perfect for easy rides with a strong selfie game.
South Side Trail – Run parallel to East Carson Street, this trail gives you quick access to bars, cafés, and some of Pittsburgh’s most vibrant nightlife.
Local trail hacks
Start at Point State Park and follow the Three Rivers Trail in either direction. You’ll pass bridges, murals, and maybe even catch a Pirates game vibe. Early mornings are the quietest, but sunset rides hit different with the city lights bouncing off the water. Keep your camera ready—this is Instagram gold.
Neighborhood rides and hidden gems
Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods are packed with character, color, and some of the coolest street art in the country. It’s a city of steep hills and tight turns, but with the right route planning (or an e-bike), you’ll uncover gems most tourists miss.
Top areas to explore by bike
Lawrenceville – Hipster central. Ride Butler Street for coffee shops, record stores, and old-school charm. Bonus: lots of bike racks and minimal hills.
Strip District – Historic, gritty, and full of food markets. Great place to ride, stop, and snack.
Shadyside to Squirrel Hill – Tree-lined streets, gorgeous homes, and the car-free trails of Frick Park nearby.
Polish Hill and Bloomfield – Eclectic and artsy with surprise murals around every corner. Expect a few climbs but great rewards.
South Side Slopes – Not for the faint of heart. Think San Francisco-style hills. Conquer it and earn major bragging rights.
Tips for riding neighborhoods
Use Pittsburgh’s bike map to find “shared lane markings” and designated bike routes. Not every street is beginner-friendly, so plan ahead. If hills intimidate you, consider renting an e-bike from POGOH, the city’s bike share system. And don’t rush—this city rewards curiosity and detours. Stop for pierogies, snap photos, and enjoy the local flavor.
Day tours and adventure rides
Want to go big? Pittsburgh is the eastern terminus of one of the most famous bike touring routes in the country—the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP). But even if you're not doing all 150+ miles, there are plenty of solid day tours and adventure rides that start right in town.
Epic day ride options
Great Allegheny Passage (to McKeesport or West Newton) – Choose how far you want to go. This crushed limestone trail is beautiful, flat, and car-free. Great for beginners and pros alike.
Pittsburgh to Millvale and Etna – Chill riverside towns with cafés, breweries, and murals. A great loop for foodies and coffee nerds.
Highland Park and Zoo Loop – Combine parks, city roads, and a quick peek at the animals. Family-friendly and scenic.
Point Breeze to Homewood Cemetery – A more introspective ride through leafy streets and historic landmarks. Surprisingly serene.
Touring tips for Pittsburgh cyclists
Always carry lights—even during the day. Pittsburgh weather changes fast, and visibility matters. Bring a good lock, especially if stopping in busy areas. Consider using the city’s incline railways (like the Duquesne Incline) to save your legs on uphill climbs—they’re bike-friendly and super fun. Also, most bus routes are equipped with front bike racks, giving you freedom to ride out and bus back if you’re wiped.
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