The best running trails around Harwick

The Rachel Carson Homestead is the preserved childhood home of renowned environmentalist and author Rachel Carson, located in Springdale, Pennsylvania, just a short walk from the Rachel Carson Trail. Built in 1870, the modest frame house is where Carson was born in 1907 and spent her formative years—developing the love of nature and science that would later shape her groundbreaking work, Silent Spring. Today, the site is managed by the Rachel Carson Homestead Association, which offers occasional tours, educational events, and environmental programming. On the property, you’ll also find the Wildlife Loop, a short interpretive trail with signage highlighting native plants, animals, and Carson’s legacy. Even when the house is closed, the loop and grounds are open to the public and make for a thoughtful stop along the Rachel Carson Trail.

Easy hike with large easy to read markers. The Homestead is just off the Rachel Carson Trail on Marian Ave. through Springdale, PA.

Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve stands as one of the Pittsburgh region's expansive private nature sanctuaries. Under the stewardship of the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania in collaboration with the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, this reserve invites exploration of its rich biodiversity. Wander along clearly marked trails through diverse habitats, from mixed deciduous forests to meadows and wetlands.

The Old Squaw Trail leads from Beechwood Farms to the town of Fox Chapel. The trail follows a beautiful creek and is famous for its waterfalls, while meandering through the forest.

Salamander Trail starts in the O'Hara Township Community Park and follows Sycamore Run in a northern direction. Along its way, it passes Fay Park and nice woodlands, while offering multiple views at the nearby creek.

The Manly sculpture is one of the 14 sculptures at Hartwood Acres, most of which follow a minimalist theme. This particular sculpture is painted bright red and blue, and the viewer is left to interpret the meaning. It was designed by Lyman Kipp and was constructed of steel in 1980.

The Large Escargot is one of the 14 sculptures at Hartwood Acres, most of which follow a minimalist theme. This particular sculpture has a mythical appearance and is described as a polymorphic creature. It was designed by David Hayes and was constructed of steel in 1983.

With a total length of 45 miles, the Rachel Carson Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Allegheny County. This section of the trail starts at Crawford Run Road in Creighton and leads up to Bull Creek Road in a northern direction. Along the trail, you can enjoy fantastic views of the Allegheny River and the nearby towns.