Hiking just might be the perfect outdoor activity. We can spend time outdoors – in the city or in the middle of nowhere – and explore any time of the year. If we’ve got the right shoes and clothing, we won’t be out any extra cash, and we can hike with others or alone if we need a bit of peace and quiet. When you’re not in the mood to trek too far from the city, here are five of the best hikes in Pittsburgh that are worth a try.

1. North Shore Riverfront Trail

North Shore Riverfront Trail is part of the longer Three Rivers Heritage Trail, a 33-mile trail that travels through the city. However, the North Shore Riverfront Trail clocks in at just over 10 miles and spans from Millvale Riverfront Park to the North Shore. Along the way, you’ll pass a ton of Pittsburgh favorites – PNC Park, Heinz Field, the Carnegie Science Center, and Mister Roger’s statue. During the summer, you might want to cool off on the water steps. You can find more information at All Trails about the North Shore Riverfront Trail.

2. South Side Steps & Hills Walk

Pittsburgh’s got a ton of stairs. With 712 staircases in the city, in fact, Pittsburgh has more steps than anywhere else in the United States. Experience just a few of those stairs on the 3.8-mile South Side Steps and Hills Walk. You’ll definitely get a workout along this trail as you climb up and down staircases. The effort is certainly worth it for some of the gorgeous views you’ll see, too. Check out the map for South Side Steps & Hills Walk on All Trails.

3. Eliza Furnace Trail

The Eliza Furnace Trail boasts an abundance of views of both the city skyline and the parkway. Tallying 3.6 miles, the trail is predominately flat, and it’s mostly paved. You’ll pass such beautiful scenery as Schenley Park and even the Allegheny County Jail. Expect noise from the traffic on the parkway. If you need a break, you’ll find benches dotted along the trail, too. Find more information on the Eliza Furnace Trail on All Trails.

4. Emerald View Trail

You definitely don’t want to forget your camera when you set off on the Emerald View Trail. The 2.3-mile trail is drenched with gorgeous views – of the downtown skyline, of Point State Park (particularly pretty if the fountain is on), and of Heinz Field. As you hike, you’ll pass through both the woods and the city. (Be prepared for spotty cell service, too.) Take a peek at the map of and find more information on the Emerald View Trail on All Trails.

5. Panther Hollow Trail

Panther Hollow Trail meanders 1.9 miles through Schenley Park in Oakland. Trek through a beautiful wooded area that will take you past Panther Hollow Lake. Even though you’re close to the busyness of Oakland, you’ll likely feel a million miles away on this quiet and easy trail. Find a map of Panther Hollow Trail on All Trails.

Do you agree these are some of the best hikes in Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! If you just want to get away from it all and spend time among nature, plan a day at Pittsburgh Botanic Garden in Oakdale.