The Best and Most Scenic Places to Kayak/Canoe Around Pittsburgh

Kayaking is The. Best. And no matter what you’re looking for, Pittsburgh has you covered. Believe it or not, our city is consistently ranked as one best kayaking cities in the US. Three rivers, endless fun. But we also have water trails, multiple classes of rapids, and untouched wilderness waiting to be paddled. Pack up some gear and head to these epic kayaking spots around Pittsburgh.

1. The North Shore

Explore the North Shore - traveling past such landmarks as Heinz Field, PNC Park, and the Carnegie Science Center - aboard a kayak or a canoe. Bring your own kayak or canoe or rent one from Venture Outdoors then hit the water where you'll be treated to stunning views of Pittsburgh.

2. The South Side

Head to the boat launch at Southside Riverfront Park and slip into the water for an afternoon of exploration on the Monongahela River. Meander down the river toward Station Square where you can indulge in views of both Mount Washington and the Pittsburgh skyline.

3. North Park

Escape the city for adventure at North Park. Launch your kayak or canoe on North Park Lake. Venture Outdoors offers rentals of kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and rowboats. Spend an afternoon on the shimmering lake before grabbing a burger at the OTB Bicycle Cafe.

North Park is located at 303 Pearce Mill Road, Allison Park, PA 15101.

4. Loyalhanna Lake

Journey to Bush Recreation Area in New Alexandria where you can spend a leisurely day aboard the waters of Loyalhanna Lake. The recreation area also offers picnicking and camping sites, an ideal spot for a quick getaway.

Bush Recreation Area is located at 720 Bush Road, New Alexandria, PA 15670.

5. Lake Wilhelm

Nestled in Maurice K. Goddard State Park, Lake Wilhelm provides an idyllic backdrop for a day on the water. Slip your kayak or canoe into the 1,680 acre lake that offers spectacular views of the state park. After a day on the water, go hiking, biking, fishing, or picnicking.

Maurice K. Goddard State Park is located at 684 Lake Wilhelm Road, Sandy Lake, PA 16145.

6. Moraine State Park

Discover the sheer beauty of Lake Arthur, the 3,225 acre masterpiece of Moraine State Park, where you can spend a day lounging on one of the two beaches or explore the lake on a kayak or a canoe. Moraine State Park also features hiking and biking trails, windsurfing, fishing, and camping.

Visit Moraine State Park at 225 Pleasant Valley Road, Portersville, PA 16051.

7. Keystone State Park

Meander around Keystone Lake on a kayak or a canoe. The cozy 78-acre lake also boasts a sand beach and a concession stand. Go fishing, hiking, biking, or camping in the 1,200 acre park.

Spend an endless summer day at Keystone State Park at 1150 Keystone Park Road, Derry, PA 15627.

8. Conemaugh River

Enjoy the calming waters of the Conemaugh River in Saltsburg. Follow the river from Saltsburg to Johnstown for the ultimate summer adventure.

9. Ohiopyle State Park

Hit the Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle State Park for a day of adventure. The water can get choppy so your best bet - if you're new and inexperienced - is to take a beginners course with a company like Make Wilderness Voyageurs.

Ohiopyle State Park is located at 124 Main Street, Ohiopyle, PA 15470.

10. Allegheny Islands State Park

Discover the hidden Allegheny Islands State Park, boasting two undeveloped islands, where you'll find the perfect spot to kayak or to canoe and to explore.

Allegheny Islands State Park is located in Cheswick, PA 15024.

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