On the Beaten Path: Pedaling Pittsburgh and Beyond

Montour Trail

Montour Trail is a rail trail through the western and southern suburbs of Pittsburgh.
For information: www.montourtrail.org

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The trail rises steadily from mile 0 to about mile thirteen where it begins a series of undulations. The first few miles have some nice views of nature but watch out for the gun club shooting ranges. They don't seem to be dangerous but they are a bit loud. After that the trail moves along some commercial properties and then back to a more rural feel. There is also a nice tunnel in this section. The last 10 miles or so feature a number of bridges including a long span where the trail intersects the Panhandle trail. Several mountain biking trails can be seen from the Mon Trail. I'm not sure if it is legal to ride on any of them but they look fun. As you approach Hendersonville you and your tired legs are treated to a long, cool and very dark tunnel. You may want to bring a flashlight if you don't have a light on your bike. The trail continues another 20 miles from Hendersonville but several sections are missing making for a tough ride with some heavy traffic. Eventually the trail connects with the Youghiogheny River Trail in McKeesport, which is part of the Great Allegheny Passage. The Montour Trail Council has done a great job of placing benches and picnic tables along the way and you are never too far from the next port a john.

Click here for the On the Beaten Path main page.