Montour Trail

The Enlow Tunnel – Montour Trail loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through varied landscapes, from leafy neighborhoods to serene wooded valleys. You'll pedal along a mostly crushed limestone surface, enjoying the gentle grades of this former railroad path. The highlight is undoubtedly the historic Enlow Tunnel, a 575 to 600-foot long illuminated passage that provides a cool, unique break in your ride.

This route is a moderate 20.4-mile (32.8 km) loop with a minimal 623 feet (190 metres) of elevation gain, making it achievable in about 2 hours and 6 minutes. It's an excellent choice for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a relaxed ride without steep climbs. Parking is available at the Montour Woods Conservation Area, providing easy access to the trailhead.

The Montour Trail is a National Recreation Trail, known for its historical significance as a converted rail-trail. Beyond the Enlow Tunnel, the trail features other remnants of its railroad past and connects to a wider network of regional trails. Its consistent, easy grade and diverse scenery make it a popular route for those exploring the Pittsburgh area by bike.

The Enlow Tunnel – Montour Trail loop from Trout Run Conservation Area is a fantastic choice for a relaxed touring cycling adventure, offering a mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. You'll pedal through lush forests, serene river bottom landscapes, and charming wooded valleys, with the distinctive Enlow Tunnel serving as a memorable landmark. This easy 11.0-mile (17.8 km) route, with just 371 feet (113 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely ride that takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes.

To plan your visit, head to the Trout Run Conservation Area, which provides convenient parking and serves as the starting point for this loop. The trail is generally accessible for all skill levels, but be mindful that the Enlow Tunnel can be quite wet and cold, even on warm days. Spring and fall are ideal seasons for comfortable cycling conditions and enjoying the vibrant scenery along the Montour Trail.

This route stands out for its connection to the historic Montour Trail, a former railroad corridor that once hauled coal, now transformed into one of the nation's longest suburban rail-trails. The Enlow Tunnel, built in 1914, is a testament to this industrial past, offering a unique, cool passage that acts as a gateway between different sections of the trail. The surrounding Trout Run Conservation Area also adds to the natural appeal with its preserved woodlands and eastern hemlock trees.