The best cycling routes in Westmoreland County
4.8
(47)
547
riders
30
rides
Touring cycling in Westmoreland County offers a network of trails, many of which are converted rail-trails, providing accessible paths through the region. The landscape features river valleys, rolling hills, and areas of woodland, characteristic of southwestern Pennsylvania. These routes often follow former railway lines, resulting in relatively gentle gradients suitable for various skill levels. The county's terrain provides a mix of open stretches and shaded sections, making it suitable for extended rides.
Best touring cycling routes in Westmoreland County
- The most popular touring cycling route is Five Star Trail, a 12.9 miles (20.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 16 minutes to complete. This easy bike trail offers a paved surface through urban and suburban areas, connecting several communities.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Westmoreland Heritage Trail, an easy 11.3 miles (18.2 km) path. This route follows a former railroad corridor, providing a mostly flat journey alongside rivers and through wooded sections.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Coal & Coke Trail, a 10.5 miles (16.9 km) trail leading through former mining landscapes and rural areas, often completed in about 1 hour 2 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Westmoreland County is defined by converted rail-trails, river valleys, and rolling countryside. The network offers options for easy bike trails suitable for beginners and families, as well as more challenging routes for advanced touring cyclists.
- The routes in Westmoreland County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Westmoreland County's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
5.0
(1)
33
riders
20.8km
01:16
80m
80m
The Five Star Trail offers a delightful, easy touring cycling experience, perfect for a leisurely outing. You'll find yourself on a well-maintained path, likely paved or finely crushed stone, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride. The route offers a pleasant journey, connecting to Greensburg, and is known for being a popular cycling route that delivers on scenic charm.
Planning your visit is straightforward for this easy 12.9-mile (20.8 km) route, which takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes to complete. Parking is typically available at various trailheads along the route, and arriving earlier in the day is advisable, especially on busy weekends. The trail is suitable for year-round enjoyment, though spring and fall provide ideal weather conditions for cycling.
With only 265 feet (81 metres) of elevation gain, the Five Star Trail is an excellent choice for beginner touring cyclists or families with kids. It's a top-rated touring cycling trail in Pennsylvania for those seeking a relaxed ride without significant physical demands. Consider it for a family-friendly cycling adventure or a gentle introduction to touring cycling.
4.6
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26
riders
18.2km
01:10
110m
110m
The Westmoreland Heritage Trail offers a delightful touring bicycle experience, winding alongside Turtle Creek and through pleasant forested areas like Duff Park. It's a consistently easy ride, perfect for those seeking a relaxed outing with gentle scenery, making it one of the more popular routes for cycling in the area.
This accessible bike path covers 11.3 miles (18.2 km) with a minimal 353 feet (108 metres) of elevation gain, making it an ideal choice for family-friendly cycling. You can expect to complete the route in about 1 hour and 9 minutes, making it a great option for a morning or afternoon spin. Parking is generally available at various trailheads, so check local signage.
As an easy, well-maintained path, the Westmoreland Heritage Trail is a fantastic introduction to cycling in Westmoreland County. Its gentle terrain and natural features make it suitable for beginners or anyone looking for a leisurely ride without significant challenges.
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6
riders
16.9km
01:02
40m
40m
The Coal & Coke Trail is a delightful touring cycling route that winds through Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, offering a mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. You'll pedal along a former Pennsylvania Railroad corridor, enjoying mostly flat terrain that takes you through peaceful wooded areas, past Shupe Creek and Jacobs Creek, and into the quaint towns of Mount Pleasant and Scottdale. Keep an eye out for old coke ovens, a nod to the region's rich industrial past, as you enjoy the varied scenery.
Planning your ride is straightforward, with parking and facilities available at trailheads like Willows Park in Mount Pleasant. The 10.5-mile (16.9 km) route is rated easy, with a minimal 135 feet (41 metres) of elevation gain, making it a quick 1 hour and 2 minutes journey perfect for families or a relaxed outing. While most of the trail is off-road, be prepared for a few road crossings and short sections on residential streets, especially in Scottdale.
This trail offers a unique opportunity to literally "follow in history's footsteps," tracing routes once used by industrial giants like Henry Clay Frick and Andrew Carnegie to transport coal and coke. It's a fantastic way to experience the local landscape and history, and for those looking for more, it even merges with the Jacobs Creek Multi-Use Trail in Scottdale for a potentially longer adventure.
10.1km
00:45
60m
60m
This easy 6.3-mile touring cycling route in Twin Lakes Park, Westmoreland County, PA, offers gentle elevation gain and scenic views.
5.0
(5)
139
riders
171km
10:55
1,100m
1,100m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
64
riders
71.0km
04:31
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
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34
riders
41.4km
02:36
140m
140m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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30
riders
32.5km
02:04
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
23
riders
11.3km
00:41
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
21
riders
16.4km
01:01
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a good place to take a break on a hot day, as the waterfall produces cold wind. DO NOT DRINK this water, It is from an acid mine and the red-orange color comes from iron and rust.
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S THE WATERFALL Demonstrating acid mnine drainage The water here is acid and iron-rich, coming up to the surface from underground mines, stairung the-rocks ruspred. Acid mine drainage (AMID) is a major source of water pollution. Cause of extensive stream environmental damage. The Ocean Coal Company, a subsidiaries of Bevind- White Coal Company Philadelphia, PA, esaiblished several mines in this region including, in 1900, Ocean No. 2. It is purported that drainage from ocean No. 2 is the chief cause of the Red Waterfall Why is it acidic and full of iron? Hundreds of millions of years ago, the massive Pittsburgh Coal Seam formed underneath parts of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohiờ from ancient swamp plants. Sand, silts, shells, and other -matter were deposited and made a rock seal over the carbon-rich vegetation, This rock contained the mineral "pyrite," made of iron and sulfur Coal mining exposes pyrite to oxygen and ground water causing the formation of sulfuric acid and a number of red, orange, and yellow compound s. AMD occurs when this mine water seeps, or in this-case, bursts out into Streams. The yellow sulfur can be seen in the shale near coal seams. GRESCHIN DASSAGE SPONSORED BY: Southwestern PA Heritage Breservation- Commission Allegheny Trail Alliances Regional Trail Corpofation For moterinformation. www.gaptrail.org
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its just a cemetery. i was riding for distance. and needed this place to keep the route on the GAP trail.
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Gravel Path. Very flat. There as also many resting points and cities along the way.
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Entrance to the Funk Bikeway on Heritage trail
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The Red Waterfall is one of the main highlights on the GAP between West Newton and McKeesport. The falls gets its name from the water that has been colored red by nearby underground coal mines, which has made the water acidic and iron-rich water.
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The West Newton Visitor Center is set in a replica of the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad’s 1910 train station that used to found the town. It is open Monday through Friday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and has maps, bathrooms, and a lot of interesting information about the GAP.
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Over 30 rides in an amusement park with roller coasters (some made of wood), water slides and a children's carousel.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Westmoreland County?
Westmoreland County offers a diverse network of over 25 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences. Many of these routes are converted rail-trails, providing accessible paths through the region's scenic landscape.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Westmoreland County?
The spring and fall seasons are generally ideal for touring cycling in Westmoreland County, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially on routes with shaded sections, while winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder conditions.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Westmoreland County is well-suited for beginners and families, with 17 easy routes available. The region's converted rail-trails, like the Five Star Trail and the Westmoreland Heritage Trail, offer mostly flat, paved surfaces, making them very accessible.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Westmoreland County has 5 difficult routes. An example is the extensive Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from West Newton, which covers a significant distance and elevation gain.
What kind of scenery and attractions can I expect along the touring cycling routes?
You can expect a mix of river valleys, rolling hills, and wooded sections. Many routes follow former railway lines, offering glimpses of the region's industrial heritage. Notable natural attractions nearby include Twin Lakes and the forests of Laurel Summit State Park and Linn Run State Park. The West Newton Visitor Center is also a key point of interest for trail users.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Westmoreland County?
Yes, there are several circular routes available for touring cyclists. An example is the Duff Park – Duff Park loop from Export, which provides a convenient way to explore without needing a return trip along the same path.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Westmoreland County?
Parking is typically available at various access points along the major rail-trails in Westmoreland County. Many trailheads, such as those for the Westmoreland Heritage Trail or the Five Star Trail, offer designated parking areas for cyclists.
Is public transport accessible near the touring cycling routes?
While direct public transport access to every trailhead may be limited, some larger towns and communities along the rail-trails in Westmoreland County may offer public transport options that can get you closer to the routes. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for specific access points.
Are there places to eat or drink near the touring cycling routes?
Many touring cycling routes in Westmoreland County pass through or near towns and communities where you can find cafes, restaurants, and pubs. The rail-trails, in particular, often have amenities conveniently located within a short distance from the path.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Westmoreland County?
The touring cycling routes in Westmoreland County are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.9 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the well-maintained surfaces, scenic views, and the accessibility of the rail-trails for all skill levels.
Can I spot wildlife while touring cycling in Westmoreland County?
Yes, many routes, especially those that pass through wooded sections and natural areas like the Coal & Coke Trail or near Roaring Run Natural Area, offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for various bird species, deer, and other local fauna.
Are there any hidden gems or less-traveled routes for touring cyclists?
Beyond the well-known rail-trails, exploring routes like the Twin Lakes Park Hiking Trail (which is also suitable for touring bikes) or the Bike loop from Smithton can offer a quieter experience and a chance to discover less-frequented paths and local charm.
Most popular routes in Westmoreland County
Most popular attractions in Westmoreland County
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