5 Local Trails Worth Waking Up Early For in Western Pennsylvania
Years ago, I would have told you that I hate hiking. I never hated the scenery, being outdoors or the adventure of it, but back then, I was looking for the most difficult high intensity, heart pounding workout I could find. Anything less than that “wasn’t worth my time.” I didn’t appreciate the wholistic wellness that hiking offers. Flash forward a few years ago, when a friend and I committed to the Rachel Carson Trail Challenge. Our first big hiking challenge, we opted for the novice-friendly Homestead Challenge of 19 miles. Fearing I wouldn’t be up to par, I started doing some training hikes. Athena was an only pup at the time and we ventured out to different portions of the trail getting acquainted with each stretch. It didn’t take me long to fall in love with hiking - sometimes quiet, sometimes I had a speaker, sometimes with a hiking friend. Either way, I was hooked.
These days, hiking is one of my absolute favorite things to do. Throw in live music and a good meal at a brewery afterwards, and you’ve just nailed my idea of a perfect day.
Luckily, Western Pennsylvania has no shortage of places to find that kind of peace—and these are a few of my favorites when I need to move, think, or just breathe.
1. Harrison Hills Park – Natrona Heights
Red Trail, Harrison Hills Park overlooking the Allegheny River
I’m guilty of forgetting what a gem Harrison Hills Park is. With more than 11 miles of hiking trails, it’s big enough to get lost in thought but close enough to be home for lunch.
The Red Trail is my favorite. It climbs high above the Allegheny River, with views that stop you mid-stride and terrain that’ll remind you how many lunges you haven’t done lately. The payoff is worth every step—the mix of wooded areas, open overlooks, and river breeze makes this hike feel like a full-day adventure packed into a few hours.
Dog-friendly bonus: Judy and Athena give it four paws up.
Search Homes Near Natrona Heights
2. Todd Nature Reserve – Sarver
Right in my own backyard, Todd Sanctuary—run by the Audubon Society—is both wild and peaceful. The shaded trails, steady birdsong, and simple beauty make it feel like you’ve escaped farther than just a few minutes from home.
Bring binoculars if you love birdwatching; it’s one of the best spots in Butler County for it. And bring your boots for the higher side of the Red Trail. It always seems to be a little sloppy up there. From there, it swings around to a small pond - perfect for the water loving Judy.
Todd Sanctuary
3. McConnells Mill State Park – Portersville
Slippery Rock Gorge Trail in McConnnells Mill State Park
A Western PA favorite for good reason. Between the old mill, the covered bridge, and the dramatic rock formations, there’s always something new to take in. McConnells Mill makes you appreciate the different landscapes we have right here in our area.
If you want a challenge, the Slippery Rock Gorge Trail will give you both a workout and a few breathtaking waterfall views. Pack water, snacks, and a sense of adventure. It’s a technical trail with challenging climbs. If you have a hiking buddy, try parking one car at the Kildoo Parking Lot and driving to Hell’s Hollow Trail Head to meet up with the Slippery Rock Gorge Trail. It’s a 6-7 mile excursion so pack accordingly.
Click here for more trail info.
4. North Country Trail – Near Slippery Rock
Part of the longest continuous hiking trail in the U.S., the North Country Trail near Slippery Rock is ideal for day hikes or quiet reflection. You’ll pass creeks, wildflowers and wildlife. It’s a mostly flattish portion of the trail making it perfect for varied skill level.
The North Country Trail app is helpful for finding trailheads and tracking your mileage.
5. Rachel Carson Trail – Near Emmerling Park
This one’s a local legend for a reason—it’s steep, rugged, and totally worth it. The Rachel Carson Trail spans from North Park to Harrison Hills. Every year, hundreds of hikers log onto the website hoping that they get a spot in one of the Challenges. My favorite part of the trail is near Emmerling Park. It offers panoramic views, especially beautiful in fall. It starts off easy by winding along the creek but then quickly turns into a doozy of a climb.
If you’re training for something big (or just clearing your mind), this trail builds both endurance and perspective.
Click here to search for homes with easy access to North Park’s portion of the Rachel Carson Trail.
Hiking Tools I Love
Before you lace up, check out these apps and hiking gear:
Allegheny County Parks Trail App – for real-time trail maps and updates.
AllTrails – for reviews, route difficulty, and elevation maps.
North Country Trail App – for long-distance planning and navigation.
Altra shoes are my favorite. They offer a large toe box for my Fred Flinstone feet.
Hiking Pools are helpful for the hills - both up and down.
Whether you’re hiking solo, meeting a friend, or sneaking in a few miles before an open house, these trails remind me why I love living here. The scenery changes with the seasons, but the peace you find out there always feels the same.