FreeWheeling Easy in Western Pennsylvania
		What's in a Trail Description? by Mary Shaw and Roy Weil

We are pleased to present selections from the book FreeWheeling Easy in Western Pennsylvania . In most cases, this includes the first paragraph of the description, the summary information, and the trail organization.

• Trails In and Around Pittsburgh
• Trails South and East: Laurel Highlands
• Trails North and East: Upper Allegheny Valley
• Trails North and West: Lake Erie and the Western Border
• Trails South and West: Monongahela Valley and Upper West Virginia

Full write-ups, for example of the Oil Creek State Park Trail , include:

• Location map: Approximate location of the trail on a miniature state map
• Detail map: Trail route and trailheads (access points)
• Summary: Basic information about trail
• Description: Character of the scenery and the trail
• Trailheads: First, a starting point in the vicinity, usually a major intersection. Then detailed directions to each trailhead from the starting point
• Amenities: Brief information on services near the trail, including rest rooms, water, bike shops, food, camping or other lodging for bicycle touring, and swimming
• Trail organization: trail development organization or manager.
• Maps and guides that tell you more about the trail or the area

For some trails, we also describe local history, attractions, extensions of the route (often on roads), or development plans. For the major trails, the overall information appears at the beginning and separate descriptions give details about the major segments.  

When we talk to people about these trails, their most common questions are "Is there a trail near where I live?", "How do I find that trail?", "What is it like?", and "Can I buy lunch/rent a bike/swim nearby?". We have emphasized this kind of information in the trail descriptions. That's what makes this guide different from others.

Within western Pennsylvania or an easy drive into nearby regions, you will find dozens of trails that are closed to motor vehicles and are graded and surfaced for easy bicycling, walking, and similar activities. Some are short, suitable for a morning, an evening, or a short day with the family. Some are longer, good for a full day's sport touring or several days of camping.

We personally rode or walked all the sections of trails that we report as developed (and many that are not). We re-checked most within the four months just before publication. Trail conditions change with time, though, so what you find may differ. On the one hand, the trail developers may have extended the trail. On the other hand, trails deteriorate over time as a result of weather and use; they need periodic maintenance. Although we mention a number of mountain bike areas, we have not checked them.

A number of trail development organizations are very active now, but they need continuing support. When you find a trail you like, consider supporting its association; they need volunteer time and materials as well as money. Information about joining these organizations is included with the trail descriptions.

[FWE Home] [ Explanations] [about the authors] Trails: [in Pittsburgh] [North & East] [South & East] [North & West] [South & West] [full Oil Creek write-up]

Ordering information

FreeWheeling Easy is currently out of print. Some copies may be available in western Pennsylvania bike shops, outdoor stores, and bookstores for $13.95+tax. The 24 page Supplement is also available for $2.00 at many of the same places.  If you can't find it there, try the used books on Amazon.com, or send us an e-mail and we will notify you when the next edition is available: 

You are visiting FreeWheeling Easy in Western Pennsylvania, copyright © 1998,1999,2000,2001 by Mary Shaw and Roy Weil. We encourage you to link to these pages or print copies for personal use. However, if you want to copy the material for any other use, you must ask us first. Other outdoor publications by the authors. Page updated 04/08/06 by Mary Shaw     Comments to maintainer.

As always we have made a serious effort to present accurate descriptions.  However we are human, trails change with time, and we occasionally receive incorrect information.  Therefore we can not be responsible for discrepancies between these descriptions and actual trail conditions.   Use common sense, judgment and be careful out there.