The best running trails around Forest Hills
3.4
(9)
909
runners
123
runs
Jogging around Forest Hills offers access to varied terrain, from expansive parklands to dedicated trails. The region is characterized by green spaces, including large parks with oak forests and a network of trails suitable for different running preferences. These areas provide a natural setting for outdoor exercise, with options ranging from paved paths to more natural forest trails.
Best jogging routes around Forest Hills
- The most popular jogging route is Great Allegheny Passage, a 11.0 miles (17.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 50 minutes to complete. This route features a moderate elevation gain, making it suitable for a longer, sustained run.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Churchill Valley Loop, an easy 3.0 miles (4.8 km) path. This shorter loop offers a gentle elevation profile, ideal for a quick and accessible run.
- Local runners also love the Frick Park Trails Loop, a 3.6 miles (5.8 km) trail leading through varied park terrain, often completed in about 42 minutes.
- Jogging around Forest Hills is defined by park trails, forested sections, and accessible loops. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy paths to more challenging routes with greater elevation.
- The routes in Forest Hills are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.5 stars from over 8 reviews. More than 693 runners have used komoot to explore Forest Hills's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 30, 2026
5
runners
17.7km
01:50
70m
70m
If you're seeking a long, steady run with varied scenery, the Great Allegheny Passage delivers a rewarding experience. This 11.0-mile (17.7 km) section, rated difficult, follows a smooth, packed crushed limestone path, offering a consistent surface for jogging. You'll trace river valleys and pass through changing landscapes, including views of the McKeesport Connecting Railroad Bridge, making for a journey that feels both natural and historically rich.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Great Allegheny Passage is designed for ease of use. While specific parking for this segment isn't detailed, the broader trail system is well-equipped with amenities in nearby "trail towns." Be mindful that the crushed limestone can soften after rain, so checking the weather is a good idea. An early morning start is often best to enjoy the tranquility of the route.
This segment is part of the much larger Great Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile rail trail that connects Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland. It's renowned for its gentle grades, never exceeding 2%, making it accessible for many, despite its Komoot difficulty rating. The trail is also a significant part of a 335-mile continuous system, linking to the C&O Canal Towpath, and is celebrated for its historical significance, built on abandoned railroad beds.
5.0
(1)
3
runners
4.85km
00:36
50m
40m
The Churchill Valley Loop offers an easy jogging experience, covering 3.0 miles (4.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 148 feet (45 metres), typically completed in about 35 minutes. You'll follow old golf cart paths that wind through open fields and rolling hills, often alongside a stream. The route showcases nature reclaiming a former golf course, with native birds and wildflowers, particularly vibrant in late summer and early autumn, transforming the landscape into a thriving natural meadow.
Parking is generally available at the trailhead, making access straightforward for your visit. While the route largely follows former paved golf cart paths, be aware that some sections may be in rough condition, with crumbling pavement or even collapsed bridges, as improvements are still ongoing. If you are new to the area, you might find some of the community-forged trails a bit confusing, so pay attention to your navigation. This route is a good option for a quick run any time of day.
What makes this route unique is its setting within a former country club, now undergoing a remarkable transformation back to nature. You will jog through a greenway that blends natural reclamation with remnants of its past, like the old golf cart paths. This distinctive landscape offers a chance to observe nature's impressive comeback, as the area evolves into a thriving natural meadow. It is a notable example of how a man-made space can return to a more natural state.
3.0
(1)
1
runners
5.78km
00:42
150m
140m
Jog the moderate Frick Park Trails Loop, a 3.6-mile route through Pittsburgh's largest woodland park with varied terrain and scenic views.
27
runners
6.78km
00:49
130m
130m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
27
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
This trail is a fantastic wide multi-use gravel path popular with hikers, runners, and mountain bikers, winding its way through the park's beautiful woodlands. The towering trees and vibrant foliage create a peaceful setting ideal for a lovely day in the park. Several access points and connections to other trails on the grounds offer plenty of options to shorten or extend your time on the trail.
0
0
Cool place to take a stroll at sunset and enjoy the art...
1
0
Nice landmark with parking next to the Great Allegheny Passage Trail.
5
0
This trail is a fantastic wide multi-use gravel path popular with hikers, runners, and mountain bikers, winding its way through the park's beautiful woodlands. The towering trees and vibrant foliage create a peaceful setting ideal for a lovely day in the park. Several access points and connections to other trails on the grounds offer plenty of options to shorten or extend your hike.
0
0
This lovely trail in the park's northern section is a relatively flat, well-maintained path that runs alongside Fern Hollow Creek. Along the way, there are several benches, providing a perfect spot to sit and enjoy the soothing sounds of the babbling water.
0
0
Hike across the historic McKeesport Connecting Railroad Bridge, spanning the Monongahela River. Discover its rich industrial heritage, as it once linked the McKeesport Tube Plant with the Duquesne Works. Enjoy panoramic vistas of the McKeesport-Duquesne Bridge and soak in the bridge's remarkable history dating back to 1890. Today, it welcomes pedestrians and cyclists to traverse its 324-foot span, offering a unique perspective on Pittsburgh's industrial past and its transformation into a vibrant recreational asset for the community.
0
0
As an essential feature of the Homestead Steel Works, the Homestead Pump House symbolizes Pittsburgh's industrial legacy. Learn about the labor struggles of 1892 while exploring the riverside routes. Discover the vital role of pump houses in cooling and transporting materials for massive industrial works along the Monongahela Valley. Experience the site where generations of steelworkers collected their wages and one of the deadliest labor confrontations in US history unfolded. The Pump House stands as a testament to Pittsburgh's dependency on rivers, mechanized power, and the resilience of its steelworkers.
0
0
Discover the scenic beauty of Churchill Valley Greenway, a 151-acre haven preserved by Allegheny Land Trust. Once an abandoned country club, it now thrives as a natural sanctuary, teeming with native plants and wildlife. Perfect for leisurely hiking, running, cycling, birdwatching, and dog walks, its open fields, stream-side trails, and wooded paths offer a tranquil escape. With ongoing enhancements by Allegheny Land Trust, the Greenway promises even more enchanting experiences for nature enthusiasts to enjoy.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Forest Hills?
There are over 120 running routes available around Forest Hills, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.5 stars.
Are there any easy running routes for beginners in Forest Hills?
Yes, Forest Hills offers several easy running routes, with 17 routes specifically categorized as easy. A great option for a gentle run is the Churchill Valley Loop, which is 3.0 miles (4.8 km) with a gentle elevation profile. Additionally, parks like Seneca Park and Arthur K. Draut Park feature mostly paved surfaces suitable for all skill levels.
What are some good long-distance running trails in the area?
For those looking for a longer, sustained run, the Great Allegheny Passage is a popular choice, spanning 11.0 miles (17.7 km) with a moderate elevation gain. Forest Park also offers extensive trails, including the 2.4-mile Orange Trail that encircles the forest perimeter, which can be combined for longer distances.
Can I find circular running routes in Forest Hills?
Yes, many of the running routes in Forest Hills are designed as loops. The Churchill Valley Loop is an easy 3.0-mile option, and the Frick Park Trails Loop offers a 3.6-mile path through varied park terrain. Within Forest Park, you can also find the one-mile Yellow Trail loop and the 1.75-mile Blue Trail loop.
Are the running trails in Forest Hills suitable for families?
Many areas in Forest Hills are family-friendly. Parks like Forest Park and Flushing Meadows–Corona Park offer wide paths and open spaces suitable for families. For paved surfaces, the bike lanes on Queens Boulevard and parks like Seneca Park provide safe and accessible options for all ages.
Are there dog-friendly running trails in Forest Hills?
Forest Hills offers several dog-friendly options, particularly within its expansive parks. Forest Park and Flushing Meadows–Corona Park generally welcome dogs on their trails, though it's always recommended to keep them on a leash and check specific park regulations for any restricted areas.
What kind of terrain can I expect on running routes around Forest Hills?
You can expect a variety of terrain, from natural forest trails within Forest Park's 165-acre oak forest to mostly paved paths in parks like Seneca Park and along Queens Boulevard. Some routes, like the Pat Dolan Trail, can be swampy in parts, offering a more rugged experience. Routes range from gentle elevation profiles to more challenging ones with greater elevation gain.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural attractions along the running routes?
Yes, the running routes in Forest Hills offer several scenic spots. Forest Park features a vernal pond along the Yellow Trail, known for migrating songbirds, and a serene Pine Grove along the Orange Trail. You might also encounter natural monuments like Hay Woods or lakes such as Panther Hollow Lake, which can be found in the broader area.
How accessible are the running routes by public transport or car?
Forest Hills is well-served by public transport, making many running routes accessible. Major parks like Forest Park and Flushing Meadows–Corona Park have various entry points that can be reached by bus or subway. Parking is generally available near these larger parks, though it's advisable to check specific park entrances for designated parking areas.
What is the best time of year to go running in Forest Hills?
The spring and fall seasons are generally ideal for running in Forest Hills, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter can bring cold temperatures and snow, requiring appropriate gear. However, the varied terrain means you can find suitable routes year-round, with paved paths being more accessible in colder months.
Where can I find facilities like running tracks or sports fields?
Within Forest Park, you'll find Victory Field, which is equipped with a dedicated running track. This facility also offers amenities for other sports like handball, softball, football, and soccer, making it a versatile spot for athletic activities.
Are there any running clubs or communities in Forest Hills?
Forest Hills boasts an active running community with several clubs. Groups like Queens Distance Runners, Team WEPA, and World's Fair Running Crew are active in the area. Queens Distance Runners, for example, hosts a weekly 5k run through the neighborhood at a relaxed pace, offering a great way to connect with local runners.
What do other runners say about the routes in Forest Hills?
The running routes in Forest Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.5 stars from over 8 reviews. More than 693 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the natural settings, forested sections, and accessible loops that cater to different ability levels.
Where can I find a cafe or pub near the running trails for after my run?
Forest Hills and its surrounding areas offer various cafes and pubs. After a run in Forest Park, you can explore options in the Forest Hills neighborhood itself, which has a selection of eateries and coffee shops. Similarly, areas near Flushing Meadows–Corona Park also provide choices for refreshments.
Most popular routes around Forest Hills
Most popular attractions around Forest Hills
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.
