Pittsburgh’s a pretty busy city, especially when the weather turns warm. While all of the activities – from festivals to outdoor markets – make for a fun outing any day of the week, sometimes we yearn for somewhere a little more subdued. When you’ve had enough of the non-stop action of the city, plan a visit to this isolated spot near Pittsburgh that’s surrounded by nature.
Get lost among nature when you visit Powdermill Nature Reserve in Rector, just about an hour from downtown Pittsburgh.
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An environmental nature center of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Powdermill Nature Reserve promises plenty to do for visitors of all ages. In fact, you might want to start your visit in the Nature Center itself.
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There, you can check out the exhibits, including an indoor stream and a marsh machine. And, the nature center hosts programs, summer camps, and other activities throughout the year.
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Visiting on the second Sunday of the month? Then, join the nature talk at 2 p.m. while the kiddos - between eight and 13 - embark on a nature investigation in the netting classroom.
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Of course, if you really want to get away from it all, lace up your hiking boots or walking shoes and head out on one of the hiking trails that will take you around the nature reserve.
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Start with either the Sugar Camp Trail or the Black Birch Trail that will give you a glimpse at some of the 2,250 acres.
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Pass a gushing waterfall, a flowing mountain stream, lush woodlands, and blossoming flowers.
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Explore Powdermill Nature Reserve, open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. However, Sugar Camp Trail and Black Birch Trail are open daily from dawn to dusk.
Trip Advisor/bfcantwell@gmail.com
Powdermill Nature Reserve is located at 1795 PA-381, Rector, PA 15677.
Facebook/Powdermill Nature Reserve Click here for the official website of Powdermill Nature Reserve. Or, go here for Facebook.
What’s your favorite isolated spot near Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! For another day among nature, visit the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Click here to read more.
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Trip Advisor/bfcantwell@gmail.com
Click here for the official website of Powdermill Nature Reserve. Or, go here for Facebook.
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