Highland Park Reservoir Loop (Pittsburgh): Trail Distance & Details

The paved trail circling the Highland Park Reservoir No. 1 in Pittsburgh's East End is a favorite for walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Trail Specs

• Distance: 1.8 miles (2.9 km) full loop
• Surface: Asphalt, well-maintained, ~10 ft wide
• Elevation gain: Minimal (~50 ft total); gentle rollers
• Difficulty: Easy, accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, adaptive cycles
• Lighting: None—dawn to dusk use recommended

Access Points

• Main entrance: Reservoir Drive at North Highland Avenue (near Highland Park Bridge)
• Secondary: Farmhouse Lane (near Zoo parking lot)
• Connects to: Highland Park's interior trails, Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, Bud Harris Cycling Track

What You'll See

• Reservoir water (backup supply for PWSA)
• Mature oak, maple, pine stands
• Birdlife: herons, ducks, warblers, hawks
• Skyline views through trees (Downtown, Oakland, Cathedral of Learning)
• Seasonal wildflowers along edges

Rules & Etiquette

• Dogs on leash (max 6 ft); clean up waste
• Cyclists: yield to pedestrians, announce passing, max 15 mph
• No swimming, fishing, boating in reservoir
• No motorized vehicles (except ADA mobility devices)

Nearby Amenities

• Restrooms: Zoo lot (seasonal), Farmhouse Lane portables
• Water fountain: Near main entrance
• Parking: Free street parking on Reservoir Dr, N. Highland Ave; Zoo lot (fee)
• Coffee/food: Square Café (N. Highland), Kaya (Bryant St), Spoony (Butler St)

Part of Pittsburgh's 24-mile Emerald View Park trail network. A peaceful urban oasis just 15 minutes from Downtown.