Rachel Carson Trail

The Rachel Carson Trail is a hiking path stretching over 46 miles from Harrison Hills County Park to North Park. It passes through forests, farmland, and steep bluffs, offering hikers a range of different landscapes to explore.

The trail began in the 1950s as part of the Baker Trail system before hikers revived and rebuilt it between 1972 and 1975. This restoration effort established it as a separate hiking network in the region.

The trail passes near Rachel Carson's childhood home in Springdale, where the environmental writer spent her formative years. Visitors walk through the landscape that shaped her passion for the natural world.

The trail offers multiple access points with parking areas, allowing hikers to plan flexible routes. Detailed maps and information are available through the Rachel Carson Trails Conservancy.

Several sections cross private property, requiring hikers to follow specific rules set by landowners. This arrangement shows the trust between property owners and the hiking community.

Location: Allegheny County

Inception: February 1975

Website: https://rachelcarsontrails.org/trails/rachel-carson-trail

GPS coordinates: 40.66213,-79.69920

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:01