Boyce Park Bike Trails: A Pittsburgh Gem

Situated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the Boyce Park Bike Trails present a delightful amalgam of challenges and excitement for every cycling enthusiast. Whether you are in search of a challenging terrain to hone your skills or a serene trail to enjoy the afternoon, Boyce Park has a bouquet of options to choose from.

Trail Overview

• Distance: 20 mi
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Network
• Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Trail Description

The heart of Boyce Park's bike trail is its awesome single track. Riding through, one can expect to be greeted with numerous intersections, making it a bit of a maze for first-timers. A map or GPS is highly recommended to avoid the confusion, especially given the intertwining trails. The route, despite its complexity, offers a slew of terrains that cater to a range of riders.For those who seek an adrenaline rush, there are two particularly steep drops, often referred to as "death drops." However, for riders less inclined towards such thrills, these can be easily bypassed.But Boyce is not just about the challenges. It has its fair share of smooth stretches, perfect for those looking to simply spin their legs and enjoy the surroundings. Yet, if you're aiming to cover many miles, it might not provide the sustained excitement you seek. That said, the park has its own set of surprises with a few man-made free ride options sprinkled throughout the system.The trail system is described by many as a solid intermediate, sprinkled with technical rooty sections. While the ride may feel a bit fragmented at times, the entire journey is peppered with intriguing obstacles, a variety of sections, and a scenic backdrop that makes it worth the ride.

Getting There

To reach this biking paradise:

1. Take I-376 E/US-22 E toward Monroeville for about 13.7 mi.
2. Take EXIT 84B toward Plum, and then merge onto Mosside Blvd.
3. Follow Mosside Blvd as it becomes Haymaker Rd.
4. Take a right onto Center Rd, ensuring not to miss the turn after Beatty Rd.
5. Next, turn left onto Old Frankstown Rd. Watch out for Cottage Ln, as you don't want to pass it.
6. Arrive at 675 OLD FRANKSTOWN RD, which will be on the right.

Trail Tips and Comments

• Parking: The soccer fields offer the best access. Parking here provides a strategic starting point for many of the trails.
• Trail Options: From the Wetlands Trail to the Sky Meadow and the connectors, there are myriad paths to choose. Some riders might not come across the man-made obstacles featured in some pictures. Those are probably located in the unexplored sections of the map.
• Trail Length: While it's listed as 20 miles, one can easily find themselves repeating certain sections, making it feel shorter or longer depending on the chosen route.
• Experience: Boyce Park is fondly regarded as a "Playground for Mountain Bikers." Whether starting at the log cabin or the soccer fields, the trails guarantee an exhilarating ride, proving why it's among Pittsburgh's best.

In Conclusion

Boyce Park Bike Trails, with their diverse terrains and challenges, ensure that every visit feels new. Be it for the dedicated mountain biker or the casual rider, Boyce Park promises an adventure worth every pedal.