Category Hikes

The Nine Allegheny County Parks

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Did you know that here in Allegheny County, PA there are nine amazing regional parks? These parks are completely free and offer over 12,000 acres of recreational land managed by the county. From wave pools to amphitheaters, hiking trails to working farms, there’s so much to explore in your Allegheny County Parks.

I’ve visited each of the parks and will be updating this page with information about my favorite trails and recreation areas at each of them. While the parks are maintained by the County, the Allegheny County Parks Foundation does the heavy lifting, behind-the-scenes work to support these vital green spaces. To learn more about them and to support your parks, visit their website.

Settler’s Cabin

Location: 608 Ridge Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15205

Highlights: Hiking trails, waterfall, wave pool, pavilions, dog park, dek hockey field, playgrounds, connector trail to the Panhandle rail trail

Featured Trail: Park at Tomahawk shelter to access the Waterfall Trail! You’ll start on the Blue Trail, leading through a dense pine grove. Stay on Blue until it connects with the Green trail heading down a hillside. At the bottom of the hill is the roughly 5-ft tall waterfall. You can continue on the Green trail away from the waterfall along the stream and it will eventually meet up with the Red Trail. This loop back to connect with the Blue Trail, making a pleasant 2.5ish mile loop.

Check out Settler’s Cabin & Altered Genius Trailside

Round Hill

Location: 651 Round Hill Rd, Elizabeth, PA 15037

Highlights: Exhibition farm with tours, spray park, playgrounds, hiking trails,

Featured Trail: The Red Trail leads through open meadows and alongside a wooded creek. You can begin the trail at the Harmony House shelter or take the Yellow Trail from the main parking lot by the duck pond to connect to the Red Trail. At times the trail can be difficult to follow so it’s best to have a map handy! Make sure to add on a walk through the farm to see the animals at the end!

South Park

Location: 3730 Buffalo Dr, South Park Township, PA 15129

Highlights: Game preserve, wave pool, ice rink, hiking trails, sports fields, dog park, Oliver Miller Homestead, South Park Theatre (free concerts!), playgrounds, golf course, connector trail to Montour rail trail

Featured Trail: Park at the Oliver Miller Homestead and Cascades lot to hike the Vale of Cashmere Trail. To begin, cross over East Park Drive towards Grant Grove shelter. To your right, the trail begins in a small meadow. This narrow trail eventually heads into the woods along a small stream. Eventually you’ll find the Vale of Cashmere, a 100-year-old water feature from when the park was first created. Past the feature, you can pick up the Buffalo Ridge Trail and keep making right turns along it to make your way back to the Oliver Miller Homestead. Make sure to stop at the Cascades to see a modern-day version of a water feature!

Check out South Park & Spoonwood Brewing

White Oak Park

Location: 3 Muse Ln, White Oak, PA 15131

Highlights: Ballfields, hiking trails, wildflowers, dog park, playgrounds

Featured Trail: Park at the Wedding Garden off Sylvan Drive to get on the Green Trail. Some maps call this the Pet Haven Trail or Rainbow Trail. You’ll follow the Green blazes for a roughly 2.5 mile loop of the west section of the park. The trail is sometimes difficult to see, so follow your route on the Allegheny County Parks app or AllTrails. This is a great trail for solitude and has an abundance of both spring and fall wildflowers!

Check out White Oak Park & Wye Beer Co.

North Park

Location: 303 Pearce Mill Rd, Allison Park, PA 15101

Highlights: Huge pool, lake with boating, kayak rentals, and fishing, hiking trails, ballfields, nature center, golf course, ice rink

Featured Trail: The Rachel Carson Trail runs through North Park and is, in my opinion, one of the prettiest sections of the long-distance trail. Start at the Harmar Pavilion and head to the right on the yellow-blazed trail for some steep hills, fun rock scrambles, and several creek crossings.

Check out North Park & Cinderlands Taproom

Deer Lakes Park

Location: 1090 Baileys Run Rd, Tarentum, PA 15084

Highlights: Hiking Trails, spray park, Wagman Observatory, disc golf, ballfields, fishing

Featured Trail: Check out the featured trails on the Allegheny County Park Foundation’s webpage! I visited this park as part of a trail running day where we did sections of all the trails in the park for a large 10 mile loop. The trails were wooded and we hardly saw another person! In the summer, be sure to end your hike at the spray park to cool off!

Boyce Park

Location: 675 Old Frankstown Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15239

Highlights: Wave pool, winter sports (skiing, snowboarding, tubing), hiking trails, sports fields, hiking trails, pavilions, dog park

Features Trail: Yellow Trail (also called Log House Trail). Park at the Carpenter Log House off of Pierson Run Road. Follow the Yellow blazes into the woods for a 1.2-mile trek that leads through open fields and wooded trail. Excellent for fall colors!

Harrison Hills Park

Location: 5200 Freeport Rd, Natrona Heights, PA 15065

Highlights: Hiking trails (including river vistas), nature center, dog park, ballfields, playgrounds,

Featured Trail: The 5-mile Red Trail leads you through a loop of the highlights of this park. You’ll pass through a rocky gorge, wetlands with a bird blind for wildlife viewing, and the stunning overlook above the Allegheny River. The trail is challenging but well worth it! There are several places to park to start the trail but I parked at the lot near Cottontail and Chipmunk Drives.

Hartwood Acres Park

Location: 200 Hartwood Acres, Pittsburgh, PA 15238

Highlights: Sculpture garden, Mansion tours and special programs, hiking trails, amphitheatre (free concerts!), dog park

Featured Trail: The Paved Trail is an accessible path that winds through the heart of the park. It passes by the Mansion area, allowing hikers to add on a stroll through the Sculpture Garden to their excursion. Following the path leads towards the Amphitheatre, where one can also see the wildflower meadow (note the mown paths here are not wheelchair-friendly).

Check out 10 Things to do at Hartwood Acres Park

Schenley Park & Monday’s Brewing (Greenfield)

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Pittsburgh, PA

We’re lucky to have a number of beautiful parks here in Pittsburgh! Schenley Park is one of my favorites because it has miles of wooded trails and stunning century-old stone bridges. It’s the perfect spot for hiking, running, relaxing, and a bunch of other outdoor activities. Plus, after soaking up nature, you can head right across the Greenfield Bridge to grab a pint and a bite to eat at Monday’s Brewing (yup, it’s open every Monday!)

THE HIKE: Schenley Park Loop

Length: 4.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 400 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Trail use: Hiking, biking, running

Where to Park: There’s plenty of street parking around Schenley Park. If you want to follow these trail directions, park along the road on Overlook Drive, which is free. Other places to park where you can pick up the trail are free parking at the Anderson Playground (the Dino Playground), or paid street parking by the Schenley Visitors Center. All of these locations have either a porta-potty or a full bathroom (Schenley Park Visitors Center).

The Route: There are miles of interweaving trails through Schenley, so you can easily do a short loop or extend for a much longer outing. This is one of my go-to loops that incorporates both the narrow wooded trails and the wider bridle trails and passes some of Schenley Park’s iconic features.

Start off on the Bridle Trail just off of Greenfield Road. Follow this wide trail as it curves around the cliffside overlooking the Parkway. This is a popular trail and you’ll likely be sharing the way with runners, cyclists, and other groups. After following downhill for about 0.8 miles, you’ll encounter the first historic bridge of your hike. This bridge, along with several others in the park, was built in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression. At one mile into your trek, you’ll reach a trail junction. To the right is the swimming pool. Stay to the left, getting onto the Upper Panther Hollow Trail and passing under a bridge. After popping up on the other side of the bridge underpass, the Anderson playground will be to your right, along with a water fountain and a porta-potty.

Continue along the Upper Panther Hollow Trail, another very wide path, as it passes under another bridge and follows along the curve of a hillside. At 1.8 miles, take a narrow path to the left as it leads down into the hollow. To the right is one of the stunning 1908 historic bridges that are iconic to the park. Continue straight, up the hillside and over another wide path. To the left is a large rock, whimsically painted like a sitting bird. Continue straight ahead onto a cobblestone slope, now getting on the Steve Falconi Trail. Continue along this single-track trail. This natural path is less busy than previous trails but is also more rustic. At 2.7 miles, the trail lets out beside a pavilion and West Circuit Road. Straight ahead is the historic Westinghouse Memorial Fountain. Continue along the road briefly, rounding the bend to the left to walk along the sidewalk along Schenley Drive. After 0.1 mile, the quaint building to your left is the Schenley Park Visitor’s Center. This is a great spot to grab a bite to eat, learn more about the park, or just use the restroom.

To continue your route, follow the cobblestone path behind the building back down into the park. Take the stone stairs that descend into the woods. In the early spring, these stairs are surrounded by bluebells. Cross over the Lower Panther Hollow Trail and keep heading down the stairs. To your right is the other of the stunning 1908 bridges. At the bottom of the stairs, turn right onto the unnamed trail and follow through some wetlands and a small pond. In several hundred feet, the trail opens up onto the Panther Hollow Lake, a popular spot for fishing and relaxing. Follow the trail as it circumnavigates the lake. Now on the Hollow Run Trail, bear slightly right to continue away from the lake and along a small stream. At 3.6 miles, the trail curves up and reaches a junction. Turn right to get on the narrow path that leads along the stream. On maps, this is also called the Hollow Run Trail, but in person, it has a sign for the Ponticulus Trail. This is an incredibly beautiful trail that meanders along the stream deep in the hollow and is less busy than the rest of the park. It’s a great place for seeing wildflowers and amphibians. Finally, the trail ends in stairs that lead up to Barlett Street. Turn right and follow along Bartlett Street for 0.2 miles to complete your loop.

This is just one of the many route options in the park!

Other Attractions: Schenley Park has a lot to offer! Some other spots that may interest you outside of hiking are the very cool and newly renovated Anderson Playground, the ever-popular disc golf course, numerous picnic pavilions, sporting fields, a swimming pool, and more! Just outside of the park are the stunning Phipps Conservatory, which has a free outdoor garden to walk through, and the Bob O’Connor Golf Course, an affordable 9-hole course open to all.

THE BEER: Mondays Brewing Taproom (Greenfield)

Address: 563 Greenfield Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15207
Distance from Trail Head: 0.6 miles, 2 mins 
Website: https://mondays.beer/
Food?: Full Menu, operated by Smashed & Fried
Details: Street parking, wine and cocktails, NA options, indoor seating only, no pets

A guarantee at Mondays Brewing? You can always get a good beer on Monday! Monday’s Brewing originally opened in Peters Township in October 2020. They managed to find their footing during a difficult time in the service industry and have grown enough to open a second location. They found the perfect spot in Greenfield in the former Hough’s Taproom, a long-standing staple of the neighborhood. The huge taproom allows Mondays to grow in ways that their cozy Peters Township bar can’t. They have a full kitchen operated by Smashed & Fried, offering a menu of burgers, BBQ, and seafood.

Anchoring the space is a huge U-shaped bar where the Mondays team serves up 20 taps of their own brews along with some sampling of other local breweries. They are also fully stocked with locally made ciders, wine, seltzers, mead, and spirits. There are even some locally made soda and ginger beer options for the non-boozy.

Mondays is a great addition to the Greenfield neighborhood and we can’t wait to see where they go from here!

Our Beer:

  • Plaza Beer – Dark Mexi Lager – 5%
  • Lawnmower Beer – Pilsner – 5%

Looking for more Hikes & Hops in Pittsburgh? Check out Settler’s Cabin & Altered Genius Trailside, Dead Man’s Hollow & Firewhistle Brewing, North Park & Cinderlands Taproom, and Best Hikes & Hops in Pittsburgh!

Looking for more adventures in Pennsylvania and beyond? Check out my new book: Beer Hiking Pennsylvania and New Jersey

A Day in McConnells Mill State Park

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McConnells Mills State Park spans over 2,500 acres of the Slippery Rock Gorge, a National Natural Landmark. With stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and a picturesque gristmill and covered bridge, this park is worth the drive to Lawrence County, PA. Whether you’re looking to hike the day away or for an outdoorsy spot to bring the whole family, a trip to McConnells Mill is beautiful at any time of year.

  1. Know Before You Go
  2. How to get to McConnells Mill
  3. Hiking in McConnells Mill
    1. Easy Hikes
    2. Moderate Hikes
    3. Difficult Hikes
  4. Other Things to Do
    1. Gristmill Tour
    2. Geology Trail (Driving & Hiking)
    3. White Water Boating
    4. Picnicking
    5. Rock Climbing
  5. Nearby Attractions

Know Before You Go

  1. Free Entry – PA State Parks and Forests are free for all visitors!
  2. 40 miles North of Pittsburgh – but not reachable by public transportation.
  3. Navigation – cell service can be spotty, so download trail and driving maps before leaving home
  4. Pet Friendly – leashed dogs are welcome on all trails. Check below for trail difficulty
  5. No Swimming – Swimming is prohibited at the park due to rocks and rapids
  6. Hunting – Some areas are open to hunting, so always wear orange during hunting season! Check the PA Game Commission for more information about hunting seasons.
  7. Accessibility – Handicap parking is available at the historic gristmill. Please note that there are no ADA-accessible trails or facilities available. Call the park office to confirm accessibility for tours of the mill.
  8. Weather – The park area is often colder than the surrounding areas and is prone to icy conditions. Check conditions before heading out and wear proper gear.

How to get to McConnells Mill

There are a few different parking areas for accessing trailheads at the park. The main parking area is the Kildoo Picnic Area. The park is approximately 40 miles north of Pittsburgh on I-79. Take the exit for PA-488, then get onto US-19N. Then follow Kildoo Road (T316) to the parking lot.

Hiking in McConnells Mill

There are over 11 miles of trail in McConnells Mill, including 7.5 miles of the North County Trail. You can combine trails to make a loop or stick to out-and-back trails. This park has plenty to see without a long hike, so it’s a great spot for families or new hikers. The hardest trail is the Slippery Rock Gorge Trail, which only experienced hikers should tackle. See below for a breakdown of the park’s trails!

Easy Hikes

  • Alpha Pass Trail (1.0 miles, out-and-back) – Start at the gristmill and head to the right on the blue-blazed Alpha Pass. The trail is fairly flat and even, but can be icy in the winter. Be aware that the creek is fast-running and not open for swimming. Leads to Alpha Falls, the tallest waterfall in the park, although best visited after a rainy spell.
  • Hells Hollow Trail (1.0 miles, out-and-back) – Start at the Schaffer Run Road parking lot. It’s an easy 0.5 miles out and back. The most difficult part is the final staircase down to the falls. The stairs end in the creek, and you’ll have to step over stones for the best view of the falls. Be aware that this can be difficult in the Spring when the water is high.
Frozen Alpha Falls
Hell’s Hollow Falls

Moderate Hikes

  • Kildoo Trail (2.0 miles, loop) – This is my favorite loop in the park. It also starts at the Mill and begins by following along the marked Kildoo Trail to the left of the Mill. This trail hugs the creek and is rocky and full of little waterfalls and runoff streams. It’s very beautiful, but new hikers might find the rocky terrain difficult. After about a mile, reach Eckert Bridge and cross over towards the Slippery Rock Gorge Trail. Bear to the right to hike alongside the opposite side of the creek. This side is higher up and slightly more rocky, but it makes for an exciting challenge. Finally, you’ll close the loop by crossing through the covered bridge.
  • Breckneck Falls (0.5 miles, out-and-back) – Another short hike to see a lesser-known waterfall in the park. Turn to the left from Eckert Bridge to start on the Breakneck Falls trail. It’s an easy hike with a very shallow stream crossing. The only difficult section is right at the mid-point to access the falls
Along the Kildoo Trail

Difficult Hikes

  • Slippery Rock Gorge Trail (6.2 miles, one-way) – This one-way (also called point-to-point) trail spans the length of the park, following along Hell Run until it meets up with Slippery Rock Creek. It is a rugged, difficult hike leading through the natural beauty of the Slippery Rock Gorge National Natural Landmark. If only going one way, you’ll need two cars, leaving one at the Schaffer Run parking lot and the other at the Kildoo Picnic Area lot. Starting at the Schaffer Run Lot, follow the signs for the Slippery Rock Gorge Trail (blue blaze). Along the trail, you’ll encounter old-growth forests, a natural landbridge, hidden waterfalls, and stream crossings. The trail leads all the way to the covered bridge and gristmill. For a real challenge, try this as an out-and-back, adding in the Kildoo Trail for a loop at the halfway point before heading back along the Slippery Rock Gorge Trail. If tackling the whole trail, make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and give yourself ample time to complete. When a friend and I tackled the full out-and-back, it took the better part of 5 hours.

Other Things to Do

Gristmill Tour

A 19th-century gristmill is a key feature of the park. For decades, this mill served as a hub of the community where farmers brought their grains to be milled into flour. The mill eventually closed in the 1920s and was eventually transferred to the state for long-term preservation. Today, you can tour the mill and learn more about how it used the creek waters to grind grains.

The historic gristmill is open for tours on select days during the summer season. It’s usually open from 10:30-3:30 Wednesday thru Sunday, starting on Memorial Day. But make sure to call the park office for more details and to confirm opening times.

Geology Trail (Driving & Hiking)

The region that encompasses McConnells Mill State Park has a fascinating geological history. Follow along the Trail of Geology in McConnells Mill and nearby Moraine State Parks for a fascinating explanation of the rock and water features in the area. Stops 1-6 are located in McConnells Mill and can also be accessed by hiking!

White Water Boating

There are no rentals at McConnells Mill, but there are several points to launch personal crafts. Depending on the water level and season, the creek is rated as a Class II to IV river. The rapids can be quite dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced boaters. Also, boats are not allowed over the dam, so all boaters must exit the creek and return no less than 50 feet downstream. For more information about whitewater boating and safety, visit the State Park’s website.

Stairs from Kildoo Picnic Area to the Mill and trailheads

Picnicking

There’s no overnight accommodations at McConnells Mill State Park, but there is a large picnic area at the Kildoo parking area with picnic tables, charcoal grills, bathroom facilities, and a field for playing. There’s also an ADA-accessible pavilion that can be reserved. This is a great spot to have lunch after exploring!

Rock Climbing

McConnells Mill is one of only four state parks in PA that allow rock climbing! There are two designated climbing areas: Rim Road and Breakneck Bridge. If going climbing, please exercise extreme caution. The routes should only be tackled by experienced climbers.

Nearby Attractions

Want to know what else to do near McConnells Mills State Park? If you’re craving more outdoor time, check out nearby Moraine State Park for swimming, boating, biking, and more, and Jennings Environmental Center for hiking, birding, and environmental education.

If you’re looking to revive with a brew and bite, head into the nearby towns of Zelienople and Harmony for a plethora of food options. For brewpubs, you can check out Union Brothers Brewing, ShuBrew, or The Harmony Inn (operated by North Country Brewing). If a treat or a coffee is more your speed, stop by Lagerhaus Bakery, Wunderbar Coffee and Crepes, or Neff Haus Ice Cream to satisfy your sweet tooth!

For more hiking adventures in Western PA, check out my guide to Waterfalls within an Hour of Pittsburgh and Best Hikes & Hops in Pittsburgh. For all of my adventures in Pennsylvania, head here!

Looking for more adventures in Pennsylvania and beyond? Check out my new book: Beer Hiking Pennsylvania and New Jersey

Best Hikes & Hops in Pittsburgh

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Looking for some hikes and brewery combos but want to stay within the City limits? This guide is for you!

  1. Frick Park & East End Brewing

Can you can a more classic combo than Frick Park & East End? When I think of summer, I think of meandering through Frick Park, with no true destination in mind followed by a crisp beer on the patio of East End Brewing. I suggest parking near the Frick Museum and taking Tranquil Trail all the way to the Nine Mile Run boardwalk. Once you reach Commercial Street, you can either turn around and retrace your steps or wind through some of the wooded trails like Falls Ravine, Riverview, and Clayton. After you’re satisfied, drive over to East End Brewing for a crisp brew and a deep-dish pizza.

  1. Emerald View & Inner Groove

This loop is the best of urban hiking! It starts out on the wooded Emerald View trail, meandering around Mt. Washington, then pops you out right at the overlook! From there, enjoy walking along Grandview Ave and then back through the historic neighbors of Mt. Washington. If you’re feeling extra frisky, you can even continue along the Grandview park section of the Emerald View trail. Or stop for a rest and treat at the Shiloh Street shops! The world is your oyster with this one. One big recommendation though is to end your excursion with a visit to Inner Groove’s Allentown taproom! They’ve got awesome beer, bar games, and an outdoor patio. What more could you want?

  1. Riverview Park & Late Addition Brewing + Blending

Riverview Park is a large 260-acre park in the North Side of Pittsburgh. It is a refreshing greenspace tucked into the busy Northside neighborhoods. There are wooded hiking trails, a pool, pavilions, a visitor’s center, and ballfields. But probably the most well known feature of the park is the Allegheny Observatory. There are many intersecting trails in the park, so I recommend having a route planned or downloading a map. This loop on AllTrails is a great way to see most of the park’s highlights. Afterward, check out the cozy taproom and patio at Late Addition Brewing + Blending on Western Ave for unique takes on traditional brews.

  1. Allegheny Cemetery & Coven Brewing

Allegheny Cemetery isn’t your typical hike but if you’re looking for an urban walk, I highly suggest you check it out! Before heading out, download the cemetery’s app/website for a self-guided tour that takes you to various notable graves with a brief history of the person. We learned so much about local history and got to take in the beauty of the cemetery grounds. Your walk can be as long or as short as you want, but afterwards, be sure to walk across the street to Coven Brewing! Take a seat outside, grab something from the food truck and enjoy a delicious brew. Coven is sure to be a new favorite! If you’re in the mood for an urban history hike and hop, this one’s for you!

  1. Schenley Park & Mondays Brewing (Greenfield)

I’ve been hiking and running in Schenley Park since my college days at Pitt. It’s a popular city park in the Oakland neighborhood near Pitt and CMU’s campuses. There are miles of single and double track trail with a lovely pond in the center. My favorite trail is the newly named Ponticulus Trail, which runs between the Upper and Lower Panther Hollow trails and is so beautiful. Afterward, you can head across the Greenfield Bridge to the Mondays Brewing Taproom in Greenfield. The newly opened space boasts tons of seating, a taplist of their own beers and some other Pittsburgh favorites, and a tasty menu from Smashed N’ Fried.

This list is ever growing! Stay tuned as I explore more of the hikes and breweries in Pittsburgh!

Looking for more adventures in Pennsylvania and beyond? Check out my new book: Beer Hiking Pennsylvania and New Jersey

10 Waterfalls Within an Hour of Pittsburgh

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While the western side of the state isn’t exactly known for its waterfalls, there are actually a few you can visit within an hour of Pittsburgh! Ranging from a few feet to almost 50 feet high, these waterfalls are definitely worth a visit. Some can even be seen from the roadside without a long hike! Remember to always stay on trails and don’t venture beyond safety barriers. If visiting in the winter, spikes and trekking poles are a good idea. Now get out there and chase some waterfalls!

Looking for more adventures in Pennsylvania and beyond? Check out my new book: Beer Hiking Pennsylvania and New Jersey

  1. Fall Run Park (Glenshaw)

Did you know there’s a waterfall only 15 minutes from Downtown Pittsburgh? Check out Fall Run Park, a community park in Shaler Township. The 25-ft waterfall is only 0.5 miles from the parking lot along a wide path dotted with bridges over a creek. The narrow falls are best seen after rain and are particularly impressive during the winter when the water completely freezes. This is a popular spot, so you’re likely to meet other spectators along the way.

  1. Settlers Cabin Waterfall (Robinson Township)

Settlers Cabin Park is one of the 9 county parks managed by Allegheny County. At only 17 minutes away from Downtown Pittsburgh, it’s perfect for an afternoon or even afterword visit. Among the miles of color-coded trails is this quaint waterfall. The quickest way to see it is to park at the dog park and get on the Green/Waterfall trail. Follow for only 0.5 miles to reach these 4-ft falls. While not the most impressive cascade, this is a charming trail and the falls are lovely after some rain. There are plenty of other trails to add if you want a longer route!

  1. Montour Woods Falls (Moon Township)

Montour Woods is one of my favorite local hiking spots! There are miles of trails and opportunities to connect to Moon Park and the Montour Trail for even longer loops. But thankfully you don’t have to hike miles to see this cascade on Meeks Run. From the parking lot on Hassam Road, follow Meeks Run Trail for only 0.3 miles and you’ll encounter this delightful trickle. Unlike other local falls, this one flows strongly throughout the year.

  1. Buttermilk Falls (Beaver Falls)

There are multiple Buttermilk Falls in Pennsylvania (and beyond) but here I’m talking about Buttermilk Falls Natural Area in Beaver Falls. Also called Homewood Falls, this roadside feature is only 35 minutes away from Pittsburgh (with tolls). There’s a small parking lot for about 5 cars at the trailhead, then its only a 0.2 mile walk to the falls. The impressive 30 foot drop spills out strongly over a rock edge, making for a waterfall that you can actually walk behind. In the winter, the falls can even freeze, for a truly incredible experience. The falls can also be viewed from a small parking lot on 1st Avenue, across the street from the Homewood Methodist Church. The view area is right beside the church, but for your safety, please don’t venture beyond the fence.

  1. Frankfort Mineral Springs Waterfall (Burgettstown)

A trip to Raccoon Creek State Park is wonderful any time of year. There are many trails to explore and the wildflower preserve is beautiful in the spring and fall. And it can reached within 40 minutes from Downtown! But one of the most popular spots in the park is Frankfurt Mineral Springs. Right beside the mineral springs is a beautiful 10-foot waterfall. My absolute favorite time to visit is in late April when a field of white trilliums line the top of the waterfall. To get to the falls, park at the main park office and follow the Mineral Springs Trail. The round trip is only 1.2 miles and is an easy walk, although some of the rocks near the falls can get slippery when wet.

  1. Hells Hollow (Portersville)

Take a trip north of the city to McConnells Mill State Park for another impressive falls. At about 50 minutes, this is a big further from town. But the beauty of McConnells Mill is well worth the drive! Hells Hollow is located on the west side of the park. Although its a popular spot, there is plenty of parking in the Schaffer Road lot. From the lot, its an easy 0.5 mile walk to the falls. The most difficult part is descending the stairs to visit the falls. They end in the waters of Hell Run and you have to step across some rocks to get the full effect of the falls. Beware that this can be dangerous when the water is high or icy.

Want more information about hiking at McConnells Mill? Check out my guide to Hells Hollow & Shubrew

  1. Alpha Falls (Portersville)

You don’t even have to change parks to see this waterfall! Located on the other end of McConnells Mill, near the historic gristmill and covered bridge is the stunning Alpha Falls. To access the trailhead, park at the main park lot for the Kildoo picnic area on Kildoo Road. From there, follow the trail behind the bathrooms down along the hillside for 0.2 miles to reach the Mill. From the Mill, head to the right on Alpha Pass Trail. This rocky trail follows along Slippery Rock Creek through towering hemlock trees and little trickles of water runoff. After 0.5 miles, you’ll reach a 30-foot stream of water that cascades over a sheer rock face. The water flow is modest but makes for a peaceful sight and beautiful ice features in the fall.

There are several other seasonal waterfalls in the park, most of which can be seen along the Kildoo Trail Loop, a 2 mile loop around Slippery Rock Creek starting at the gristmill and heading to Eckert Road bridge and back.

  1. Springfield Falls (Mercer)

Springfield Falls is the only waterfall I know of that you can enjoy a craft beer beside! That’s right, Cobblehaus at the Falls offers a truly stunning spot to view these falls in Mercer. At 55 minutes from town, it might seem like a long drive to visit a brewery, but the views here are definitely worth it. If you’re just looking to see the falls, you can access them from a small parking lot on Falls Road. The waterfall is technically located in State Game Lands 284, so be aware if visiting during hunting season. Its an easy 0.3 miles from the road to the falls, although the way down to the bottom can be a bit tricky.

  1. Big Run Falls (New Castle)

Staying north of the city, we’re heading to New Castle for this next waterfall. Big Run Falls is tucked into the ruins of Cascade Park, a former amusement park, now turned local park. There’s a large parking lot on Highway 65. From there, follow along the park road, past the abandoned amusement park pavilions. On the left, there is a municipal garage. To the right is a gorge with a stream. The waterfall will be directly underneath you. Continue along the road to a picnic area with a better vantage point of the falls. Please enjoy the falls from here. Do not venture beyond the fence as the hillside is very steep and the landscape is delicate. You’ll also see the remaining track of a rollercoaster that once zoomed along the stream.

There are also several short trails in the park if you’d like to stay and explore!

  1. Quaker Falls (Lawrence Co.)

The very last waterfall on my list and arguably one of the most impressive! Quaker Falls is tucked into the newly created Quaker Falls Recreation Area, located in Lawrence County just a few miles away from the Ohio border. There is a large parking lot and a newly built stairway down to a viewing platform for the falls. The impressive 50-foot cascade really took me by surprise when I visited! I didn’t even know that we had a fifty-foot waterfall on this side of the state. Back at the parking lot, there’s also a short walking trail along the top of the falls with interpretive signs about the history of the area that leads to a few other viewing platforms. Please be aware that any foraged trail down to the bottom of the falls is not recommended and hasn’t been cared for by the park organizers.