4.6
(37)
512
riders
25
rides
Touring cycling around Jefferson Hills offers diverse routes through rolling hills and dense forests, with the Monongahela River shaping its southeastern boundary. The area features extensive multi-use trail systems, including sections of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) and the Montour Trail. These trails provide varied terrain, from crushed limestone paths to paved sections, suitable for different cycling preferences. Streams like Peters Creek, Beam Run, and Lewis Run contribute to the natural landscape.
Last updated: July 12, 2026
5.0
(7)
155
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
40
riders
31.6km
02:03
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
16
riders
22.0km
01:30
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
14
riders
76.2km
04:47
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
14
riders
34.5km
02:07
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Great ride along the river with several places to pull off and enjoy the view.
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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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The Montour Trail is a multiuse trail around Pittsburgh and is the country's longest suburban rail-trail. The trail is built on the former Montour Railroad.
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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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Jefferson Hills offers a diverse selection of over 20 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 2 easy, 14 moderate, and 4 difficult options available for exploration.
The touring cycling routes in Jefferson Hills range from easy to difficult. You'll find 2 easy routes, 14 moderate routes, and 4 challenging routes, ensuring there's something for every cyclist, from beginners to experienced riders.
While touring cycling in Jefferson Hills, you'll encounter a landscape characterized by rolling hills and dense forests. The Monongahela River forms the borough's southeastern boundary, offering scenic views, and several streams like Peters Creek, Beam Run, and Lewis Run contribute to the natural beauty of the area.
Yes, several routes pass by points of interest. For example, the Homestead Pump House – View of US Steel Plant loop from McKeesport offers views of industrial heritage. You can also find the McKeesport Connecting Railroad Bridge and the historic Dravo Cemetery in the vicinity.
Yes, for those seeking natural beauty, the Red Waterfall is a notable attraction near some routes. Additionally, you might find scenic overlooks, such as the View of Phantom’s Revenge at Kennywood Park, offering unique perspectives of the area.
Absolutely. Jefferson Hills provides excellent access to major multi-use trail systems. You can connect to the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) at local trailheads like Triphammer Road, Gill Hall Road, Route 51 - Large, and Clairton. The Montour Trail, a former railroad line, also runs nearby, offering extensive cycling opportunities.
Yes, there are several circular routes available. A popular option is the Montour Trail – Tunnel loop from Logan, which is a moderate 19.6-mile path. Another is the Montour Trail – National Tunnel loop from Library, covering 35.5 km.
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, many of the moderate routes on the Montour Trail, with its primarily crushed limestone and some asphalt surfaces, are well-suited for families. The relatively flat sections of these trails provide a pleasant experience for riders of all ages.
Parking is generally available at various trailheads that access the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) and the Montour Trail. Specific locations mentioned include Triphammer Road, Gill Hall Road, Route 51 - Large, and Clairton for GAP access. Local parks like Gill Hall Park also offer amenities and parking that can be integrated into your cycling plans.
The touring cycling routes in Jefferson Hills are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the extensive multi-use trails like the GAP and Montour Trail, and the scenic beauty of the rolling hills and forests.
The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Jefferson Hills, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the peak heat. Winter cycling is possible, but trail conditions may vary due to snow or ice.
Yes, Jefferson Hills offers 2 easy touring cycling routes, which are ideal for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and smoother surfaces, making them a great starting point to explore the area's trails.
While the region is known for its rivers and streams, you can find nearby lakes and ponds that might be incorporated into or viewed from some routes. Notable spots include Duck Pond, Zorianna Bay, and South Park Turtle Pond, which offer tranquil settings.


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