The largest park in the Pittsburgh area (Allegheny County) with a 75 acre lake! The lake is great for water activities like fishing or kayaking. There's an ice rink for winter ice skating. Paved walking trails. Wooded areas. Golfing. Swimming pool. Nature center. Hockey courts. Basketball. Tennis courts. Off-leash dog park. So much more! Need an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life? Take a quick trip from Pittsburgh to North Park and let nature do its thing! read more

See all

Golf Course Review: I had a fantastic time golfing at North Park Golf Course for the first time. I am fairly new to this sport, so this was the perfect course to practice on. My tee time to play the back nine was at 6:40am, and I finished around 8:20am. My round was $18.00 including the cart. Every employee I talked to was kind and made sure I enjoyed myself. The course and cart path are both well taken care of. I can not wait to come back and play the front nine! read more

North Park - Hole 17 - Parks Near Me - Allison Park, Pennsylvania

Very fun! It's scenic and so fun to walk and look at the water/ kayakers. It gets very busy so I'd recommend going early/ late in the day. There's a bike lane and it's just a good time! They have lots of pavilions you can book. read more

My local state park that I have quite literally lived in and visited for many many years. The lake walk is beautiful and so relaxing. There are so many shelters to relax at. It's simply perfect. read more

North Park - Parks Near Me - Allison Park, Pennsylvania

Always enjoy walking around the lake and boathouse areas. It's nice to see some of the wildlife around like the Great Blue Herons. Recently, we spotted a Mute Swan hanging out in and out of the water. read more

North Park - Mute Swan - Parks Near Me - Allison Park, Pennsylvania

North Park is magnificent. I wish they still did the haunted house during Halloween. That was so cool. But far and away the best public pool in the area. There's a sweet slide where the adults can stay at the bottom and just wait and watch. And the Rachel Carson trail starts there. You can canoe the pond. read more

Time to update my five stars for this wonderful park. It has something for everyone - challenging hikes or peaceful strolls. Enjoy peacefully sitting by the water, or go out and row on it. Also a very bike-friendly park - I prefer the route around the lake, while my hubby will take on some of the more challenging hills. The activities available in the park include zip lining, miniature golf, batting cages, swimming pool, pickle ball, tennis, dog park..... the list goes on and on. Plenty of areas for impromptu picnics, as well as fantastic rental facilities of varying capacity for parties. I feel like I've spent so much time in North Park, I should know it inside and out - but it's so vast and diverse, I keep discovering new treasures within it. read more

This is a beautiful park with plenty to do! We took our dog on the 5 mile loop and he loved it. We enjoyed people watching and were appreciative of the benches when we needed a rest. I would love to see more water bottle filling stations though! read more

there's a spilt Frappuccino there might've been poison ivy. The lake is super dirty. This is the worst park ever.

This park in the North Hills of Pittsburgh (McCandless, Hampton, and Pine townships) is nearly 3,100 acres in size, and it has a 65-acre lake for boating, kayaking, and fishing. Other amenities are a nature center, golf courses, swimming pool, ice rink, dek hockey rink, ballfields, shelters, off-leash areas for dogs, basketball courts, archery range, tennis courts, fields for radio-control airplanes, Go Ape zip lines and tree crossing, etcetera! They even have a restaurant to eat at. I have hiked the trails at this large, beautiful park many times, and I consider this park to be a blessing to the residents of the Northern suburbs and to visitors. By the way, as you can see, I am no professional protographer, but if you want to see some absolutely amazing photos of wildlife, particularly birds, from North Park, then I encourage you to follow North Park on their social media. Those photographers' bird photos are gorgeous! read more

See all

I have been enjoying North Park for such a long time and it is always there for a long trek, kayak adventure, or a trail hiking outing. I love Marshall Island and the pond there and also the tennis and pickle ball courts. I have taken multiple photos of it which I will include as part of the review. read more

See all

A beautiful place for all types of outdoor recreation. This is my go to location for running, with the main loop around the lake being exactly 5 miles. If running isn't your thing, no worries. There are plenty of activities to be enjoyed by everyone in all seasons! Ice skating, hiking, baseball fields, playgrounds, bike riding, pickle ball, tennis, you name it and they've probably got it somewhere within the park. A great part is the speed limit is 25 mph and it's a known place for pedestrians, so I find people drive a bit more carefully, making you feel safe. read more

Such a lovely park. Beautifully maintained walking/biking trail, hiking and mountain biking trails, and even restaurants to stop by for a snack during your day. read more

Check out the map I took a picture of at the park for locating the cherry blossom trees. They have a peak bloom and are so beautiful. read more

See all

The best place to enjoy a nice day. Lake is 5 miles all the way around with only a small portion on the busier road. Also a huge array of playgrounds for kids to pick from. read more

This is one of my go-to parks in Pittsburgh. It is a HUGE park in the North Hills area and the park is partitioned off so that there are spaces for activities for everyone. There are tons of pavilions and picnic areas scattered around the park. There are 2 big dog parks. There is a huge lake with opportunities for kayaking or canoeing. There are also plenty of hiking and biking trails. It can definitely get busy when the weather is nice, but honestly the park is pretty big and it doesn't feel crowded at all. read more

North Park - Parks Near Me - Allison Park, Pennsylvania

I grew up going to North Park and I was so happy to introduce my son to it recently on a visit to Pittsburgh. We spent time at the playground which was much more elaborate than during my days. There is a little kid area and a big kid area. The little kid area is nicely shaded. I love that the lake is close so we could go down there for a break from play. We watched all the people fishing and also fed the ducks. There is so much more here too-batting cages, mini golf, biking, boat rentals, ropes course, and probably even more. This is a really nice asset to have in the North Hills of Pittsburgh. Definitely take advantage if you can! read more

Been in North Park just a couple times over the last year for BBQs and to enjoy the water. It's always been a great experience and never had any trouble finding parking or things to keep us entertained! read more

Beautiful county park in Allegheny county. Walking, running, hiking, biking, kayaking, tennis, swimming, ice skating. Great place to explore the outdoors!! read more

North Park golf course. First and last time I play there. They DON'T care about seniors. Or handicapped people. They won't give anyone a handicap flag. They want handicapped people to walk 30 feet to the greens if not further. Most of the time it is uphill to the greens. The Rangers are rude and act like county employees. Which means they don't care. South Park is not this Bad. But here is an issue with the south park golf course. They have a bag drop which is great. Here is the issue after you drop your golf bag. You have to go park your car in the parking lot. Then you have to walk 50 yards up the slope to get to the number one tee. read more

I may be a South Hills girl, but that doesn't stop me from visiting the beautiful North Park periodically! If my research is correct, North Park is the largest park in Allegheny County. It definitely features the largest man-made body of water (a lake) in Allegheny County. It may be man-made but that lake is truly beautiful. It's home to lots of wildlife, too - I've been lucky enough to spot herons and even an osprey by the water! And surrounding the lake are acres and acres of woodlands. Between the water, the trees, and the more specialized areas of the park, there is literally something here for every visitor. Hiking, fishing, kayaking, golfing, swimming, ice skating, ball games, off-leash hotspots...it's all here! Access to some activities varies by season, but there's always something to do at North Park no matter the time of year. As others have mentioned, the park is also well maintained and marked. Visits here are meant to be fun and stress free. Between its accessibility and its many options for visitors, I highly recommend that fellow outdoor lovers check out North Park at some point! (Pro-tip: Venture Outdoors often hosts hikes out here if you don't want to visit alone. And Kayak Pittsburgh operates a kayak rental on the gorgeous lake.) read more

It's so beautiful and peaceful place to picnic and have fun. They park is so huge. There are trails which you can try.

This place is big. I'm talking 3k plus acres big. The lake alone is over 60 acres. This park is very popular with the local communities. Some people visit on a very regular basis, almost religiously. There are many walkers, runners, and cyclists whom take advantage of the large 5 mile loop around the lake. The lake is utilized for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and SUPing (stand up paddle boarding). It is also the backdrop in many selfies. There are a few bathroom facilities located in the park, some permanent buildings, some portable bathrooms. I always bring snacks, and water when I visit the park, usually contained in a backpack. There are numerous shelters throughout the park. Some are small, medium, large, and extra large. Some have electricity and/or handicap access. The price rages from 30 to 88 bucks (depending on size and if you are a resident). You can reserve the shelters online, up to a year in advance. Alcohol is allowed in non glass containers, only IF you complete the proper paperwork and pay the $50 fee ($63 for nonresident). If you're too good for the shelters you can rent a 'facility' as the park calls it. They're pretty much entire buildings or the second floor of the boathouse. These range from free (a particular facility for scouts) or 40 to 313 bucks, plus any special fees that apply. Ready for outside stuff? There are tennis courts, basketball courts, handball courts, deck hockey courts, baseball and softball fields, bike ramps and obstacles, and hiking trails. This place is a wonderful place to enjoy the outdoors with a friend, or a hundred friends. read more

My home golf course. The price is insane for 2023 standards and the course is still competitive with other local public courses. I love the front nine as it is very easy to walk, though the back nine can be somewhat of a challenge. The hotdogs at the turn are essential when visiting. Great course for the cheap price tag! read more

NorthPark is literally in my backyard. I love this place. It's quiet, beautiful, peaceful.

The first time I was at North Park was just a drive through with my husband (boyfriend at the time) and parents, as he was just showing us around. I was in awe that such a place existed on the outskirts of Pittsburgh and later, just 10 minutes from our home! All of the signs throughout the park gave me an idea that this place has so much to offer: running and biking trails, hiking trails, dog parks, ice skating rink, tennis and paddle courts, kayaking, fishing, playgrounds, GO APE, and much much more! I thoroughly enjoy going for a run around the lake at any time of year and watching the seasons change. It provides a scenic view and gives me a chance to exercise and people watch, all at the same time! There are water fountains and outhouses located along the 5 mile route which is nice if they are needed. Since moving to Pittsburgh 7 months ago, I have participated in a 5k and a half marathon at the park, both well organized. My husband and I have been to Over The Bar, the restaurant at the boathouse, and were pleased with our meals (salads). We plan on returning this summer to enjoy a meal outside, overlooking the lake. In addition, I look forward to going to the park to check out some hiking trails, spend time reading by the lake, and going on a picnic or two! Be prepared that everyone comes to the park once the weather is nice! The more the merrier! read more

North Park - Summertime - Parks Near Me - Allison Park, Pennsylvania

North Park is a gem. It has many different trail options of varying degrees of length and difficulty. I have yet to get bored with my trial runs and hikes, and also appreciate that I can get road training in as well for my runs. The trails can get busy in the summer, especially with mountain bikers. So if you are on your feet, be sure to pay attention and keep in mind proper trail etiquette! I look forward to many more run and hike days at North Park. read more

See all

Just moved to Wexford and this place is gorgeous, well laid out and they put in OTB which makes it great for a pint and meal. Absolutely perfect. read more

Took the kids to a playground by the boathouse. There was garbage everywhere. Full meals with if garbage. We went to the water and my child became tangled in a fishing line. I started to pull it but stopped figuring (but hoping not) a hook was at the end. Of course there was a hook. It made me want to write a letter to someone that fishing should be banned. You would assume a fisherman was repeated nature enough not to litter or other humans enough not to leave lines with hooks around. We will frequent our cleaner parks we are more accustomed to. This park would not be my first choice. And they say the blab and yellow playground has break-ins. Sad read more

Great park to walk, bike, roller blades, really do any outdoor activity. The park is well kept and has a bunch of pavilions to rent. Great for any time of the year and plenty of parking available. This is also a wonderful park for families. read more

North Park - Parks Near Me - Allison Park, Pennsylvania

See all

I love kayaking on the lake, it's very relaxing and fun. There are some Great Blue Herons that nest close to the lake, I often see them when I am kayaking here. The trails are very good, and are fairly well marked. The Rachel Carson Trail cuts through the park, and that's a wonderful trail for hiking. A great park for jogging or biking. read more

North Park - Beautiful hiking trails - Parks Near Me - Allison Park, Pennsylvania

My favorite park to bring my pets, to hike at, bike, etc. Cleaned up nice, clean roads, clean air, fun playgrounds for the kids

North Park is one of my favorite areas in Pittsburgh! The playgrounds they have for kids, the biking/running trails, kayaking, etc. It's so beautiful and so relaxing just being here! If you haven't been before, you definitely need to check it out. When we have warmer weather is the best time in my opinion. read more

Great place for runs. The loop is nice and the scenery is great. The activities are fun as well.

I moved to Pittsburgh last year. Since then, I've made it a point to explore as many parks in the area as I can. My favorite place to spend the day: North Park. While it's not much for hiking, there is a TON to do. My advice: park near the OTB At the Boathouse in one of the lots or along road. From there, I like to take the five-mile walk around the lake. You're on a road (there are dedicated walk and bike lanes), but it's still nice to check out the scenery. And there are scores of shelters and fishing holes so you're bound to strike up a few conversations along the way. The loop will bring you back to the OTB, which has a nice little deck that overlooks the water. It's also attached to the boathouse, where you can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and peddle boats by the hour. If you have your own kayak or canoe, there's a launch there as well. (Plus, there's an ice cream stand next door!) If you're into ropes courses, there's a big one nearby as well--and a huge, fenced in dog park about 1/2 mile away. While you can't swim in the lake, you can hit the North Park pool just a few miles away. It's MASSIVE. I can't express this enough. You can rent an inner tube, you can swim laps, you can wade around, or (if you're a kid) you can go to the splash areas. But it's also cash only so make sure you don't roll up with credit cards. read more

This is the best and largest park in the city. They have pretty much everything you are looking for in a suburban park including a couple of dog runs, 16 plus tennis courts, softball fields, soccer fields, 2 skating rinks (one for hockey exclusively ), 12 plus basketball courts. 30 miles of hiking, kayaking, biking ‍ and ‍ running trails. (Check out north park trail runners for a very well organized trail life community and guides). There also is a zip line course, and some kind of ropes safari course and one of the best 'off the beaten path' (literally - 200 yards from a trail run) bar/ restaurants with a lakeside deck and cool art (check out the mixed medium art on the walls ). And since you've read this entire review....a bonus fact you can impress your friends with. Same landscape architect as Central Park in NYC!!!!! read more

See all

Amazing bike trails. Too many people walking all over the street and nearly getting hit with cars. But the bike trails are immaculate. keep this immaculacy up and stop making it crappy. and remove the creepy building by the black and yellow playground. -L. N read more

I visited North Park last fall with family while B was mountain biking in the area. The park is beautiful! B said the mountain biking trails were pretty good, though I can't speak to that from personal experience. We checked out the North Park Boathouse and grabbed a bite and a drink at OTB (Over the Bar Bicycle Cafe). We walked through the park and played with our niece and nephew at one of the playgrounds. There were plenty of play areas for children and dogs, which I thought was lovely. Our niece and nephew had a blast, and we got to meet some cute puppies who were enjoying the park as well. I haven't had much experience with North Park, but my time spent there was very nice. And based on that, I would definitely recommend this park. read more

I have been going to North Park since my childhood and am never disappointed. It is such a beautiful park with so much to offer! My nephew and niece LOVE the bike jumps in the trails by the pool...o...they love the pool too! I take my dogs to the off leash dog park where I have met some of the nicest people! My brother had his wedding reception and my daughters had their graduation parties in pavilions that overlooked the beautiful lake. Bird watching has met its highest level in North Park now that the eagles have made it their home! You can rent bikes and kayaks with a plan on dinner afterwards all right there at the park. If you have a weekend with an opening, this is the perfect place to fill it! read more

See all

No shortage of things to do here. Puppy parks, tennis courts, ice skating, kayaking, hiking, biking, playgrounds, I could keep going! Just in love with over 37K acres of land to enjoy. read more