Adventure Travel Destinations in Pittsburgh, United States

Pittsburgh, United States, Pittsburgh, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Adventure Travel Destinations

Adventure Travel Destinations in Pittsburgh, United States

1. Kennywood Park

Historic amusement park with roller coasters and water rides.
  • Thrill Rides: Offers several thrilling rides for adventure-seeking visitors.
  • Historic Attraction: Built in the late 1800s, Kennywood Park showcases a rich history of amusement parks.
  • Water Rides: Enjoy water attractions like the Raging Rapids and the new Steelers Water Playground.

2. Frick Park Trails

Extensive network of hiking and biking trails through Pittsburgh's largest park.
  • Natural Beauty: Experience the beauty of Pittsburgh's forests, streams, and wildlife.
  • Variety of Trails: Offers a variety of trails for both beginner and advanced hikers and cyclists.
  • Historic Estate: Visit the Clayton estate, a historic house museum in the park.

3. Three Rivers Heritage Trail

Multi-use trail system following Pittsburgh's three rivers.
  • Scenic Views: Enjoy scenic views of Pittsburgh's skyline and riverfront.
  • Accessibility: Connects to various neighborhoods, parks, and attractions across the city.
  • Active Transportation: Promotes active transportation by providing a safe and enjoyable route for cycling or walking.

4. Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

Wildlife park with over 400 species and a large aquarium.
  • Variety of Animals: Features a diverse array of animals, including polar bears, giraffes, and penguins.
  • PPG Aquarium: Visit the PPG Aquarium to see sharks, sea turtles, and colorful fish.
  • Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts for several endangered species through breeding programs.

5. Sand Ridge Trail at Deer Lakes Park

Mountain biking trail with challenging terrain and beautiful views.
  • Advanced Biking Trails: Offers advanced mountain bike trails for experienced riders.
  • Natural Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of the forested trail and scenic overlooks.
  • Challenging Terrain: Features challenging downhills, jumps, and technical features for an adrenaline rush.

6. North Shore Riverfront Trails

Multi-use trail system along the Allegheny and Ohio Rivers.
  • Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning views of Pittsburgh's skyline, bridges, and rivers.
  • Accessibility: Connects to various attractions like PNC Park, Heinz Field, and the Andy Warhol Museum.
  • Active Transportation: Promotes active transportation by providing a safe and enjoyable route for cycling or walking.

7. Ohiopyle State Park

Popular destination for hiking, whitewater rafting, and camping.
  • Outdoor Activities: Offers a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, whitewater rafting, and kayaking.
  • Scenic Beauty: Experience the natural beauty of the Youghiogheny River Gorge.
  • Camping Options: Features campgrounds for tents, RVs, and cabins.

8. Mt. Washington via Incline Railways

Vintage cable cars offering panoramic views of Pittsburgh.
  • Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Pittsburgh's skyline and three rivers.
  • Historic Attraction: Ride on the historic Duquesne or Monongahela Incline, built in the late 1800s.
  • Accessible Transportation: Provides an accessible alternative to hiking up Mt. Washington.

9. Falls Overhead Bridge at Ohiopyle State Park

Suspension bridge offering views of the Youghiogheny River Gorge.
  • Scenic Views: Experience stunning views of the Youghiogheny River Gorge.
  • Adventure Activities: Ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting.
  • Historic Bridge: Built in the late 1800s, it's a historic attraction and popular photo spot.

10. Whitewater Rafting on the Youghiogheny River

Exhilarating whitewater rafting experience on Class III and IV rapids.
  • Adrenaline Rush: Experience the adrenaline rush of navigating powerful rapids.
  • Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of the Youghiogheny River Gorge.
  • Variety of Rapids: Offers a variety of rapids, from beginner to advanced levels.

11. Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail

200-mile hiking trail through the scenic Laurel Mountains.
  • Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of the Laurel Highlands, including waterfalls and forests.
  • Long-Distance Hiking: Ideal for long-distance hikers seeking a challenging adventure.
  • Historic Attractions: Passes through historic sites like Fort Ligonier and Ohiopyle State Park.

12. Kayaking on the Allegheny River

Relaxing or adventurous kayak trip down the Allegheny River.
  • Scenic Beauty: Enjoy scenic views of Pittsburgh's skyline and riverfront.
  • Adventure or Relaxation: Choose from a leisurely paddle or an adventurous whitewater kayaking experience.
  • Accessibility: Multiple launch points along the Allegheny River make it accessible for kayakers of all levels.

13. Rock Climbing at the Petroglyphs

Rock climbing on sandstone cliffs adorned with ancient petroglyphs.
  • Historic Attraction: Climb among ancient rock carvings, dating back thousands of years.
  • Adventure Activities: Ideal for experienced rock climbers seeking a unique challenge.
  • Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of the sandstone cliffs and the surrounding landscape.

14. Road Cycling on the Great Allegheny Passage

Long-distance road cycling trail through scenic landscapes.
  • Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of forests, fields, and historic sites.
  • Long-Distance Cycling: Ideal for long-distance cyclists seeking a challenging adventure.
  • Historic Attractions: Passes through historic sites like the Pennsylvania Toll Road and numerous towns along the way.

15. Canoeing on the Conemaugh River

Relaxing canoe trip through the scenic Conemaugh Gorge.
  • Scenic Beauty: Enjoy scenic views of the Conemaugh River Gorge and surrounding forests.
  • Leisurely Paddle: Ideal for a leisurely paddle, perfect for families or beginner canoeists.
  • Accessibility: Multiple launch points along the Conemaugh River make it accessible for canoeists of all levels.