As our Southwestern Pennsylvania weather starts heating up, we can look forward to getting back to the great outdoors! Regardless of if you’re always in nature or if you’re looking for a break from the city of Pittsburgh, you’ll find you’re always welcome at one of Washington County’s great outdoor spaces. Whether you like to walk, run, hike, bike, or be out on the water, we’ve got a place for you to do it. Whatever your favorite outdoor activity is, our parks and trails are sure to have something for everyone.
Looking for one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh this weekend – or any weekend? Want to go to a larger park with a variety of different activities to offer? Look no further than Mingo Creek County Park or Cross Creek County Park. Located just off 136 between Monongahela and Eighty-Four, Mingo Creek Park offers over 3 miles of paved trails for walking and biking. They also have plenty of picnic tables, exceptional playgrounds, and beautiful pavilions so you can make the day a family affair! Want to get off the beaten path for a bit of adventure? Just bring some hiking shoes and see where the day takes you. On the other side of the city of Washington, you can also find Cross Creek County Park - Washington County’s largest park. In addition to the amenities offered at Mingo Creek Park, feel free to bring a boat, kayak, or fishing pole to make use of Cross Creek Lake!
Are you in the mood for something more focused on running, biking, or hiking? Check out one of the nation’s outstanding rail-trails that are right in your back yard! With the school year coming to a close it’s time to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air on one of the best trails in the Greater Pittsburgh Region! Explore some of the trails that connect all of Washington County by planning a day on the Montour, Panhandle, or National Pike Trail. Interested in taking advantage of one of our great trails, click here to find where your nearest trailhead is!
If you would prefer to spend a day on the water, you can enjoy floating, boating, or fishing on the Monongahela River. Travelling all the way North to Pittsburgh, “The Mon” offers great views of the valley. If you need to stop and grab a quick bite or just get back on land for a bit, visit Monongahela! The city that shares its name with the river offers that small town charm – in addition to some great food!
“Washington County is seeing a significant uptick in trail users paired with the growth of our trail systems and supporting small businesses. As an example, community leaders in McDonald are driving a renewed energy, where both Panhandle and Montour Trail users are welcomed to town and encouraged to venture off-trail to enjoy specialty shops, services and the town’s heritage,” stated Jeff Kotula, President of the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency.
Regardless of how you like to spend your time outdoors, Washington County has a lot to offer. Just a short jaunt from the city and its surrounding areas, it’s a convenient way to escape the city and get lost in some greenspaces. Take advantage of Washington County’s parks and trails, one of the best day trips around Pittsburgh! Want to find out what’s best for you? Visit WashCoTrails.com to plan your trip today!
