Pittsburgh offers plenty of opportunities to explore – on foot, by bike, and even by segway. Now that the cool air of fall has begun flowing into the Burgh, it’s the perfect time to embark on a picturesque hike that will take you to once-abandoned steel furnaces. Are you ready? Let’s go!
Carve out some time this autumn to explore the picturesque Steel Valley Trail that spans from the Glenwood Bridge near Sandcastle Waterpark to McKeesport (or vice-versa, depending on which way you’re traveling).
Facebook/Steel Valley Trail Council
Embrace spectacular natural views of the rivers that mirror the roaming clouds and fading sunlight.
Facebook/Steel Valley Trail Council
Stop at markers along the way to learn more about the historic points of interest you will pass, including the site of the Battle of Homestead, the U.S. Steel Edgar Thompson Plant, and…
Yelp/Troy B.
Carrie Furnaces, a Natural Historic Landmark, in Swissvale. The furnaces date back to 1906 and played an integral part in Pittsburgh’s steel making history until 1979.
Flickr/Roy Luck Carrie Furnaces are located at Carrie Furnace Boulevard, Swissvale, PA 15218.
Furnaces 6 and 7, once abandoned, now attract visitors who want to tour the historic buildings. Operated the Rivers of Steel Heritage Corporation, the tours provide an intimate look at the steel making process.
Flickr/Jay Ressler
The two hour tour runs on Saturdays (10 a.m. and 11 a.m.) and Sundays (1 p.m.) from May through October. Tours are scheduled on Fridays at 10 a.m. from June to August.
Flickr/Brook Ward
Aspiring and professional photographs can join a Photo Safari, a unique three hour tour that allows you to take unforgettable photographs of Carrie Furnaces.
Flickr/Melissa Robison
Hit the Steel Valley Trail any time of the year. Click here for more information, including a printable map.
Flickr/Jay Ressler
After you’ve discovered the Carrie Furnaces along this picturesque trail, check out these six easy hikes around Pittsburgh.
Facebook/Steel Valley Trail Council
Yelp/Troy B.
Flickr/Roy Luck
Carrie Furnaces are located at Carrie Furnace Boulevard, Swissvale, PA 15218.
Flickr/Jay Ressler
Flickr/Brook Ward
Flickr/Melissa Robison
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