Bike Rides Out of Pittsburgh

Freeport Rd.

The road from the Highland Park Bridge to Freeport on Freeport Rd. is mentioned more often than any other road in this guide. It goes through a lot of small towns, but it provides some of the best flat riding in the area. At the Red Belt in Tarentum, Freeport Rd. goes left up a short hill and then continues right, all the way to Freeport. An alternative flat road (River Rd.) sticks next to the river for another several miles. There are four bridges along Freeport Road over the Allegheny River worth mentioning: the Hulton Bridge at Oakmont; the New Kensington Bridge; the Tarentum Bridge; and the Garvers Ferry Bridge out of Freeport on SR356. Much farther out, there’s the Ford City Bridge at Ford City.

Squaw Run Rd. — 15 miles

Turn left off Freeport Rd. on Fox Chapel Rd. (the Green Belt); fork left on Squaw Run Rd. (along which Teresa Heinz supposedly lives). Take this up to Dorseyville Rd. (left). Left on Kittanning Pike into Sharpsburg. Return over the Highland Park Bridge [15 miles].

Fox Chapel — 25 miles

Take Fox Chapel Rd. (the Green Belt) left off Freeport Rd. and follow it over three hills. While going downhill before the third hill, bear left on Old Mill Rd., then right on Fairview Rd. to Dorseyville Rd. Turn right on Dorseyville Rd. to Saxonburg Blvd., left to Etna [25 miles].

Hunt Rd. — 10 miles

For a quick winter’s ride, start out as under Squaw Run. From Squaw Run Rd., turn left on Hunt Rd., and follow it uphill to Sharpsburg-Kitanning Rd. (left), which takes you down the chilly descent into Sharpsburg [10 miles]. You can also run into Hunt Rd. by following the Guyastua Rd. ride up Center Ave. and taking the first left from Guyasuta Rd., on Buckingham Rd., which runs into Hunt Rd. (left).

Old Mill Rd. — 20 miles

Begin as under Squaw Run Rd. From Squaw Run Rd. turn right on Old Mill Rd.. Go left on the Green Belt (Fox Chapel Rd.) to Dorseyville Rd. (left) and return as under Fox Chapel [20 miles].

Guyasuta Rd — 30 miles

The roads in and around Fox Chapel provide infinite variety for short, pretty, and hilly rides, too numerous to mention, but try this: just after the turn off the Highland Park Bridge to Aspinwall, and at the second light take Center Ave. left up a dramatically steep hill to Guyasuta Rd. (right), leading up and eventually past the Green Belt, becoming Field Club Rd. Follow this to Powers Run Rd. Go left on Powers Run Rd., becoming Fox Chapel Rd. and follow Fox Chapel [30 miles]. Powers Run Rd., leading up from Freeport Rd., is commonly considered too steep; try it some time.

Space Warp — 25 miles

This ride invariably tricks me into messing up directions. Start out as under Guyasuta Rv. Take Field Club Rd. (the extension of Guyasuta Rd.) past Powers Run Rd., and follow the main road, eventually Highland Rd., to the Green Belt. Turn right on the Green Belt and follow it left at Fox Chapel Rd. As the road starts to go downhill, look for a left onto Old Mill Rd., and follow it back to Squaw Run Rd. Left back to Aspinwall, past a crossing with Guyasuta Rd. from the other direction than I think I’m heading [25 miles]

Guys Run (***) — 30 miles

A good shorter ride for evening training, a local favorite. Take Freeport Rd. past the Hulton Bridge. Just short of the Yellow Belt, at the Eat ‘n Park restaurant (something that isn’t there anymore), take Guys Run to the left (a great climb). Follow the Green Belt to Dorseyville Rd., then back as described above under Fox Chapel [30 miles]. Toward the top of Guys Run Rd., Locust Hill Rd. goes off to the right over to SR910 for a connection to Rich Hill Rd.

RIDC Park — 1.5 miles

This industrial park straddles SR28 just before Blawnox, with an entrance from Freeport Rd. on Alpha Drive. There is a gently rolling closed cir- cuit of about [1.5 miles], usually wind-swept. Although somewhat boring, this is a loop one can safely take family members to.

Indianola — 30 miles

Also a favorite evening training ride. Turn left from Freeport Rd. onto the Yellow Belt (SR910) and up and over the hill. Somewhat past the bottom, turn left on Indianola Rd. (a uniquely tough, lung-searing climb). Eventually, turn right on Dorseyville Rd. to Saxonburg Blvd. (left), back through Etna [30 miles].

Mill Dam Rd — 35 miles

Continue past Indianola on SR910. Right on Cove Run Rd., left on Mill Dam Rd., a really good long climb. Left on Rich Hill Rd. to Michaels Rd. (right), right on Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. to Freeport Rd. and return [35 miles].

Locust Hill — 30 miles

Locust Hill Rd. cuts Indianola slightly short, but is also very tough. Instead of descending on the other side of the SR910 climb, turn left on Locust Hill Rd. (more climbing) and join Guy’s Run Rd. toward the top of the Guy’s Run climb. Continue as per Guys Run [30 miles].

Rich Hill Rd. — 30 miles

Take Guys Run Rd. to toward the top of the climb, turning right on Locust Hill Rd. at SR910 jog right and then left on Rich Hill Rd. and do a descent. Going straight will eventually take you on Jacoby and Nixon Rds. over to Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. Instead, go left up a steep short climb, still Rich Hill Rd., to a left at a T. Rich Hill Rd. winds to the Orange Belt and Saxonburg Blvd., on which you return via Etna [30 miles].

Hill Heaven — 40 miles

You’ll need mountain gearing. Take Guys Run, but turn right off Guys Run Rd. on Locust Hill Rd. Right and left at SR910 on Rich Hill Rd., becoming Jacoby Rd., becoming Nixon Rd., to Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. Cross this and head straight, down an unpromising entry to SR28. Keep right and it will lead you through Cheswick to Tawney Run Rd., which will roll up to Butler-Logan Rd. Continue straight, into Creighton on Murray Hill Rd. (steep downhill) just short of where the Orange Belt comes into Freeport Rd. Turn left and then left on Clarks Pike, and climb it up to Butler-Logan Rd. (right). Left on Log Cabin Rd. Cross Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. and climb Lafever Hill. Keep right on Rich Hill Rd., left on Mill Dam Rd., left up Cove Run Rd. (very steep), left on Rich Hill Rd. to SR910 (left). Return on Freeport Rd [40 miles].

Yellow and Green Belts — 55 miles

Follow the Yellow Belt off Freeport Rd. arching all the way over to the Ohio River at Glenfield, then left on Ohio River Blvd. to the Green Belt, returning all the way to Aspinwall (with the opportunity to cut short at various points, e.g. Rochester Rd., Babcock Blvd., Mt. Royal Blvd., Middle Rd., Saxonburg Blvd.) Up to [55 miles].

Tour of East Deer — 40 miles

Begin as under Hill Heaven. In Cheswick turn left on Yutes Run Rd. and take it up hill to Butler-Logan Rd. (left). Quickly turn right down Clarks Pike (Run) Rd., taking you to Crawford Rd., that is, the Orange Belt running between SR28 and Russellton. Turn left and go up the Orange Belt climb, then turn right on Russellton Airport Rd., then right again up Baileys Run Rd. Look for a left on Fairfield Rd., which will take you up to just past the climb coming out of Deer Lakes Park, on Days Run Rd. Left through Deer Lakes Park to Russellton; take Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. to Freeport Rd. (right) and return [40 miles].

Log Cabin Rd. — 35 miles

Despite the name, no log cabin in sight. Take SR910 (the Yellow Belt) left off Freeport Rd., at the top of the climb go right on Nixon Rd., left up Rich Hill Rd. At a T, bear right down LaFever Rd. hill (be careful; it’s really steep). Cross Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. on what is now Log Cabin Rd., a long, gradual climb up to Butler-Logan Rd. (right). After crossing over SR28, turn left and then right down Riddle Run Rd., right back to Pittsburgh on Freeport Rd [35 miles].

Little Deer Creek Valley Rd.

Although Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. intersects with Freeport Rd., the usual access to it is to turn left off Freeport Rd. on the Yellow Belt (SR910), then immediately right and up past the U-PARC (the old Gulf Research Center); then left on Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. (by the Syria Mosque), which runs past the Rural Ridge post office, through the “honking tunnel” and into Russellton. This road provides access to more good intermediate-length rides than any other road in the Pittsburgh area. Almost any turnoff from this road leads somewhere interesting.

Lafever Hill — 30 miles

An early-season ride. Left off Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. at the Lafever Hill sign; there’s a bus shed at the intersection. Log Cabin Rd. is on the right. At the top, take Rich Hill Rd. left and then all the way to SR910. Jog right and then left and proceed as per Locust Hill [30 miles].

Russellton-Canpbell Rd. — 40 miles

Follow the Orange Belt out of Russellton left, over the first two stair-step hills (Starr Rd.). Turn left at the T-intersection, and follow the road past the East Union Presbyterian Church. Take the first main right down Russellton Rd. to Saxonburg Blvd. Continue across on Campbell Rd. to SR910 (right). Follow to Middle Rd. (left) and return through Etna [40 miles].

Cove Run Rd. — 45 miles

A billygoat’s dream. Leave Russellton as under Russellton-Campbell Rd. After the church, don’t take the first main right (Russellton Rd.) but the next one down Mill Dam Rd. brings you to a left turn at the bottom of Cove Run Rd. hill. You will need a lower gear than you probably have. At the top of the climb, keep to the right (Rich Hill Rd.) and follow to the bottom of a short steep descent. Right to SR910. Right and then left up Locust Hill Rd. to Guy’s Run Rd. Follow Guy’s Run from there [45 miles].

Russellton-Saxonburg Blvd. — 40 miles

Take Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. to the Orange Belt. Left on the Orange Belt (Starr Rd.) over the stair-step hills. Follow the Orange Belt right to Saxonburg Blvd. (left). Return to Etna via Saxonburg Blvd. For a hillier ending, near Hartwood Acres go left from Saxonburg Blvd. up Dorseyville Rd., returning to Sharpsburg via Kitanning Pike [40 miles].

Russellton-Orange Belt-Middle Rd. — 40 miles

Do as under Russellton-Saxonburg Blvd., but follow the Orange Belt all the way to SR910. Right, then left on Middle Rd. and back to Etna [40 miles].

Michaels Rd. — 30 miles

Follow Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. to just short of Russellton, and turn left on Michaels Rd. and climb over to Saxonburg Blvd. Left and back through Etna [30 miles].

Tour of West Deer — 50 miles

From Russellton, take McRell (McKrell) Rd. to the left from Russellton, just past where the Orange Belt crosses Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. Follow this to Saxonburg Blvd., then briefly right and left on Logan Rd. to the Red Belt. Left and then right on Rittman Rd., leading into Kyle Rd. Left on Sandy Hill Rd. to a left on Glasgow Rd. back to the Red Belt. Right and then left on Shephard Rd. which you take to the left as the main road changes its name to McIntyre Rd. Right on Middle Rd. Ext., then left on Lick Rd. Right on Bairdford Rd., then left on Kaufman Rd., which takes you to Curtisville on Saxonburg Blvd. Return via Etna [50 miles].

Culmerville — 40 miles

Go north on the main road through Russellton past the Orange Belt, bearing left outside town, still on Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. Intersect with Saxonburg Blvd. at Culmerville, just past where the Red Belt comes in from the right. Either return (left) on Saxonburg Blvd. or follow the Red Belt to Bairdford Rd. (left). Return either by going right on Middle Rd. Ext. and Middle Rd. or take Bairdford Rd. straight. If you take Bairdford Rd., here is one way to proceed. Take the main road into Bairdford and go across the Orange Belt on what is now Bryson Rd. Take Dawson Rd. left to Starz Rd. (right), to Campbell Rd. Left and then right on Saxonburg Blvd., which takes you to Etna [40 miles].

Leslie Rd. — 65 miles

A nice extension to Cherry Valley Rd. Across Deer Creek Rd. Cherry Valley Rd. becomes Leslie Rd. Take this all the way to to SR8, then jog left and right on Old SR8 to a left on State Rd. Up and down across the Red Belt. At the orange Belt jog left and right. Eventually join Hardies Rd. to the Yellow Belt. Left across SR8 to Middle Rd. (right) and return through Etna [65 miles]. Often done in reverse.

SR908 Ext. — 45 miles

Go through Russellton past the intersection with the Orange Belt, bearing right outside town on SR908 Ext. Turn left at Tarentum-Culmerville Rd. and follow it to the Red Belt just before Culmerville. Return on Saxonburg Blvd. as under Culmerville. Or turn right on Tarentum-Culmerville Rd. to Dellenbaugh Rd. (right), to Days Run Rd. (left) to Freeport Rd. and return [45 miles].

Sun Mine Rd. (***) — 65 miles

Here is the full version. Begin as under SR908 Ext. past Tarentum-Culmerville Rd. At a T, briefly left to Millerstown and Culmerville Rd. (SR1028). Cross this and soon take a right up Sun Mine Rd., becoming Westminster Rd. Many shorter hills follow on the way to SR228. Turn left on SR228, and another left past the school on the hill past the BP station. This leads across Saxonburg Blvd. on McKay Rd. Cross Monks Rd., left on Sandy Hill Rd., right on Leslie Rd. to SR8. Left, then right on old SR8, bear left and left again. You are on State Rd., also featured on Glade Mills. See there for the return, eventually on Mt. Royal Blvd. [65 miles].

Millerstown Climb — 45 miles

Instead of taking Sun Mine Rd. as under Westminster Rd., turn right on Millerstown and Culmerville Rd., a good hilly way to get over to Freeport Rd. above the long sweeping descent into Freeport. Right to a left on Oak Manor Dr. Right on River Rd. to Tarentum. Return on Freeport Rd. [45 miles].

Crawford Run Rd — 35 miles

This used to be Angelo Cialone’s favorite evening ride. Take Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. to Crawford Run Rd. (it turns right before the tunnel) and up a fairly long climb. Right turn at the top on Butler-Logan Rd. After crossing over SR28, take a left and then a right on Riddle Run Rd. (a long gradual downhill into Springdale, and an opportunity to unleash your biggest gear). Return on Freeport Rd. [35 miles].

Deer Lakes Park — 45 miles

In the running for Three-Star status, this ride incorporates a favorite race loop. Take Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. to the Orange Belt. Right, but soon left through Deer Lakes Park on Mahaffey (Kern) Rd. (steep, two- stage climb). Right turn after the descent along a long slightly downhill stretch (Days Run Rd.). Right turn at a T intersection. Follow the winding uphill road (Baileys Run Rd.) back to the Orange Belt and into Russellton. Return as you came or, for additional distance, tack on any of the many variations out of Russellton [45 miles] or more.

Orange Belt off Freeport Rd. — 40 miles

The Orange Belt intersects with Freeport Rd. between the New Kensington Bridge and Tarentum. The climb to the left is worth doing; it’s comparable to Guy’s Run. At the top, go straight and descend on Crawford Run Rd. to Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. Left to Freeport Rd. and back [25 miles]. Or follow the Orange Belt to Russellton. From Russellton the ride can proceed in any number of directions. The Orange Belt can be followed to the west all the way past SR8, where it becomes too trafficky to be pleasant. The best choice is to take the Orange Belt through Bairdford to SR910, right and then left and back on Middle Rd. [40 miles].

Riddle Run Rd. — 30 miles

From Freeport Rd between Springdale and the New Kensington Bridge, take Riddle Run Rd. left, up a nice hill. At the top go left and join (right) with Butler-Logan Rd. At Crawford Run Rd. go left, downhill, and return (left) on Little Deer Creek Rd. and Freeport Rd. [30 miles].

Marshall Hill — 40 miles

From Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. turn left up Marshall Hill Rd., a nice long dirt climb. Left on Rich Hill Rd., and follow it when it goes right. A long, rolling descent merges you with Cove Run Rd. and brings you to Nixon Rd. (right). At SR910 go briefly right, then left on Locust Hill Rd. to Guys Run Rd. (right). Follow the Green Belt back to Fox Chapel, returning over the Highland Park Bridge [40 miles].

Days Run Rd. — 40 miles

Days Run Rd. leaves Freeport Rd. to the left past where the Orange Belt does, opposite the entrance to the PPG plant, usually being picketed. Take this pleasant, slightly uphill road all the way to Tarentum-Culmerville Rd. Left to Culmerville and return on Saxonburg Blvd. [40 miles].

Sycamore St. Hill — 2 miles

Made famous by the Thrift Drug Classic professional bicycle race, which traveled up this hill a dozen or so times, Sycamore St. is reached by taking Arlington Ave. briefly up from Carson St., then right up the Sycamore St. climb. At the top of the hill, the first street to the right will take you over to Grandview Ave. Join McArdle Roadway on a hairpin right and back down the hill. To go again, go right at the bottom of McArdle Roadway on Arlington Ave., right again on Sycamore St. About [2 miles] around. An equally good climb is Neff St., one street farther up from Sycamore St., right at the top to Wyoming St., to Grandview.

Avoiding Gravity Hill

Not that it’s any easier, but for variety’s sake, jog left and right at the Campbell Rd. intersection with Saxonburg Blvd. and go up Christine Rd., turning to Eisele Rd. at the top (a bit of dirt, but nothing bad), coming to Cove Run Rd. (right then left to SR910, then left again). Right just past the Turnpike on very nice Blue Run Rd. to Indianola Rd. (right) to Dorseyville Rd. (right) to Saxonburg Blvd. (left) and return through Etna.

Tarentum-Culmerville Rd. — 40 miles

This infrequently cycled but attractive road leads up a climb from Freeport Rd. on Ross St. out of Tarentum and eventually to Culmerville, returning on Saxonburg Blvd. through Etna [40 miles].

Red Belt off Freeport Rd.

The Red Belt intersects with Freeport Rd. at Tarentum, where it is called Bull Creek Rd. The Red Belt is a well-used bicycle route. It can be ridden in a big arch above Pittsburgh all the way to Ambridge on the Ohio River, with intermediate rides heading south at any number of places (Saxonburg Blvd., Middle Rd., Meridian Rd., State Rd., Babcock Blvd., Mingo Rd., and others).

Red Belt-Middle Rd. (***) — 50 miles

This is probably the most frequently ridden Red-Belt option. Ride to Tarentum on Freeport Rd., then follow the Red Belt left to Bairdford Rd. (left), then right on Middle Rd. Ext. and return on Middle Rd. through Etna [50 miles].

Howes Run Rd. — 45 miles

This attractive road departs from the Red Belt out of Tarentum to the right, about halfway between Tarentum and Millerstown. It leads uphill across Millerstown-Freeport Rd. to Ekastown Rd. close to Ekastown. Left and then left again on Goldscheiter Rd. bearing right on Stark Rd. to Lardintown Rd., then right and left on Anderson Rd. to Saxonburg Blvd., which will take you to Etna for a return on the 62nd St. Bridge [45 miles].

Burtner Rd. — 50 miles

Ridge Rd. (one of very many local roads with this name) departs from the Red Belt to the right just outside Tarentum, past SR28. After a while, past a school on the left, take Burtner Rd. right, a fast descent down to and across SR28. The Burtner House, a pretty 1821 stone farmhouse built by the first white settlers in the area, is on the left just past SR28. Go right on Pleasantville Rd., eventually cross Freeport Rd., and bear to the right, descend- ing to the Allegheny River on Mile Lock Rd. Take River Rd. to the right to the Tarentum Bridge. Return on Freeport Rd. This ride is also good in the opposite direction [50 miles].

Fawn — 50 miles

Take Little Deer Creek Valley Rd., SR908 Ext. to the Red Belt, right toward Tarentum. Left on Howes Run Rd., right on Millerstown and Culmerville Rd. Right on Ridge Rd., and a whooshing descent back to the Red Belt. Left to Tarentum and return on Freeport Rd. [50 miles].

Metz Rd./Donnel(y)ville Rd. — 45 miles

For a real treat, instead of climbing Ridge Rd. as under Ridge Rd./Burtner Rd., instead climb small, narrow, pot-holed Metz Rd., a bit farther along the Red Belt, which takes you up to Ridge Rd. Left to an intersection with Donnelville Rd., the site of a prominent fatal shooting incident of not too long ago. Left on Donnelville Rd. to Howes Run Rd., right to Millerstown Rd., left to the Red Belt at Millerstown. Return on SR908 Ext. through Russellton [45 miles].

Red Belt-Sewickley (***) — 75 miles

There is a tradition of doing this ride in late summer when everyone’s in pretty good shape, and seeing if you can maintain a 20-mile an hour average. The Red Belt ends at the Ohio River at Fairoaks, just outside Ambridge. Take Ohio River Blvd. into Sewickley. From Sewickley, follow the Orange Belt (Blackburn Rd.) back into the hills, eventually to Chesterfield Rd. (right). See Sewickley-Rochester Rd. for returns [75 miles]. There are a number of other good climbs out of the Sewickley area, for example, Little Sewickley Creek Rd., Camp Meeting Rd., Glenn Mitchell Rd. or Red Gate Rd. (a real climb) to Merriman Rd.

Tour-Ed Mine — 50 miles

Basically, the same as Fawn. Just off Ridge Rd. near the Red Belt, the Tour-Ed mine is a good place to take your children to some summer day. Turn in the entrance and go through the venue, exiting through the vintage PA Turnpike tollgate down to the Red Belt.

Red Belt-Coraopolis — 70 miles

Begin as per Red Belt-Sewickley, but take the Orange Belt out of Sewickley across the Sewickley Bridge to Coraopolis, then left over to Neville Island, which provides a flat, usually wind-aided stretch into McKees Rocks on SR51, which runs into Carson St. and leads to the South Side. Return via Smithfield, 10th St., or Brady Street (Birmingham) Bridges [70 miles].

Mt. Nebo. — 60 miles

A variation on the return from Sewickley. Take Blackburn Rd. to the right where the Orange Belt turns left, and follow it to Mt. Nebo Rd., which eventually crosses I279 and becomes Lowries Run and Mt. Nebo Rd. Take Lowries Run Rd. (the Yellow Belt) east to Rochester Rd. and Babcock Blvd. and back through Millvale [60 miles].

Mingo Rd. — 60 miles

Go north to the Red Belt on Middle Rd., Saxonburg Blvd., or through Tarentum, and head west. Mingo Rd. goes south (left) from the Red Belt past I79, leading past SR910 and the Orange Belt and joining with Brandt School Rd. (right-and-left jog), which intersects with the Yellow Belt (Ingomar Rd.) going east to Middle Rd.

State Route 228

Nice, mainly flat rides can be found by taking SR228, arching over the north of Pittsburgh, as though it were the next beltway beyond the Red Belt. The road has been recently provided with shoulders, making it much more rideable. Take Old Freeport Rd. to Tarentum, then River Rd. along the river to Spring Hill Rd. (left, and a climb back up to Freeport Rd.) Right at the top. Continue to a left on Fuhrer/Saxonburg Rd. at a stop light (Czekalski Real Estate on the left). This becomes Ekastown Rd., which joins SR228 in Sarverville. Keep straight. SR228 eventually intersects with SR8 at Glade Mills. Beyond this, SR228 goes south for a while and then heads west to Mars, beyond which the traffic is too heavy for comfortable riding. Many roads lead south toward Pittsburgh at varying distances: Millerstown and Culmerville Rd., Sarver Rd., Lardintown Rd., Westminster Rd., Saxonburg Blvd., Sandy Hill Rd. Across SR228 head south on McFann Rd., Forsythe Rd., State Rd. SR228 to Saxonburg Blvd. and return through Etna.

Millerstown and Culmerville — 50 miles

A favorite loop is to take Freeport Rd. past Tarentum to just past the top of the hill leading down to Freeport. Turn left on Millerstown and Culmerville Rd. and take this up and down road as far as the Red Belt. Left and then right on SR908ext into Russellton and return via Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. to Freeport Rd. [50 miles].

Sarverville — 55 miles

A nice rolling ride. Start out as under SR228. In Sarverville, at the point where Ekastown Rd. joins SR228 (at the GP station), go left on W. Sarver Rd. This cuts an attractive swath over to Saxonburg Blvd. via Lardintown, Westminster, and Brewer Rds. Left on Saxonburg Blvd. to Culmerville. At Culmerville head left over the railroad bridge, then right and down into Russellton to Freeport Rd. [55 miles].

Rainbow (All-Belt) Ride — 100 miles

This used to be my favorite longer ride, but due to increased traffic on the latter parts, it isn’t what it used to be. Take Freeport Rd. to the Red Belt at Tarentum. The point is: to start this ride at the periphery of the beltways and then spiral back to town. Take the Red Belt to Ambridge-Sewickley, joining the Orange Belt on the bridge over the Ohio River to Coraopolis. Go through town and join the Yellow Belt. Follow the Yellow Belt south (major climb) to SR60, and stay on the Yellow Belt through Carnegie and Mt. Lebanon. Left on Washington Rd.=West Liberty Ave. to the Blue Belt (right). Follow the Blue Belt along McNeilly Rd., Library Rd., Maytide St., Brownsville Rd., Becks Run Rd., to Carson St. (right). Take the Blue Belt into Homestead. Leave it at the Homestead High Level Bridge, and join the Green Belt into Rankin across the Rankin Bridge. Leave the Green Belt at Braddock Ave., which will take you to Forbes Ave. (left) and Squirrel Hill [100 miles].

Dirty Dozen — 55 miles

This ride, designed by Dan and Tom Chew, has been ridden (usually in a cold rain or slushy snow) nearly every year in November or December for the past eighteen or so years. It circles Pittsburgh, taking in the most challenging climbs near the city, as determined by consulting a topographical map. Like most of Dan’s rides, this one is quirky, and should probably not be attempted alone the first time; for a map, see the Dirty Dozen Website at www.DannyChew.com/dd.html From the Wash-ington Blvd. bike track cross the Highland Park Bridge, turning right in Aspinwall on Old Freeport Rd., then left on 1: Center Ave., continuing the climb up Guyasuta Rd. Left on Buckingham; then Hunt Rd., Maurers Ln., Kittanning Pike, Canal St.; right on 6th St. in Etna to 2: Ravine St. and Sharps Hill Rd., then Dorseyville Rd., left down Browns Hill Rd. across Saxonburg Blvd. up 3: Berryhill Rd. Left on Middle Rd. to SR8, Butler St. in Etna, right on 4: High St. to Seavey Rd., left on Evergreen Rd., briefly right on Ohio St. to 5: Logan St. in Millvale. Left on Pittview St., then down and back up on 6: Rialto St. (Pig Hill), left on Lowrie St. to Troy Hill Rd., right on Madison Ave.-East St., left on 7: Suffolk St., continu- ing up Hazelton St. and Burgess St. Left on Perrysville Ave., right on Federal St. around Allegheny Center Mall, across the 6th St. bridge. Market St. and Blvd. of the Allies to the Smithfield St. Bridge. Left on Carson St. to a right and a right to 8: E. Sycamore St. Right on Wyoming Ave., left on Grandview Ave., left on Merrimac St., then Woodruff St., left on Saw Mill Run Blvd., right on Crane Ave., left on Banksville Rd., then left on Coast St. to 9: Canton Ave. Half the field falls down here, on what may be the steepest paved street in the world at 37%; see www.post-gazette.com/pg/05030/448976.stm. Retrace to Banksville Rd. Left on Wenzell Ave., left on 10: Boustead St., right on Pauline Ave., left on W. Liberty Ave. through the Liberty Tunnel (prime sprint at the end). Right on the P.J. McArdle Rdwy., right on 10th St., up and back on 11: Welsh Way. Return to Sarah St., Jane St. Right on S 20th St., then 12a: Berry St., Holt St. (these streets are not on most maps), left on 12b: Eleanor St. Right on Arlington Ave., left on Sprint St.-Mountain Ave., Wagner Rd., left on Becks Run Rd., right on Carson St., joining SR837 to the Glenwood Bridge. 2nd Ave. through Hazelwood to 13a: Flowers Ave. (right), continuing left on 13b: Tesla St. (you are finished). Right on Harlem St., right on Hazelwood Ave., left on Murray Ave. and Squirrel Hill. Around [55 miles], if you go back to Highland Park.

Saturday Quartet — 30 miles

A low-gear ride incorporating selected hills of Pittsburgh’s Dirty Dozen. Go toward downtown on Butler St., merging with Liberty Ave. Get over to Penn Ave. and merge with Grant St. downtown. Toward the river bear right and cross the Smithfield St. Bridge to the South Side. Take the first right and the first right after that up the famous Sycamore St. climb, bear- ing right to Grandview Ave. At the top of McArdle Roadway turn left down Merrimac St. to Woodruff to Saw Mill Run Blvd. (left). Right up Crane Ave. to US19 (left). Left on Coal St. and then left and try to go up and down cobbled, slippery, and very steep Canton Ave. Returning to US19, go left and then go left on Wenzell St., then left up Bousted St. Left on Broadway to Beechview Ave. (left), right back down Crane Ave. to Saw Mill Run Blvd. (right). Left on Ravine St. to Warrington Ave., to Arlington Ave. (right). Left on Rupp Way and right on Josephine St., right on 27th St. to Carson St. (right), then left acoss the Hot Metal Bridge to 2nd Ave. (right). Follow 2nd Ave. under the overpass and right into Hazelwood. Left on Flowers Ave. and left on Tesla St. Right on Hazelwood Ave. to Murray Ave. in Squirrel Hill. Only [30 miles]

Pittsburgh Bridges — 45 miles

A ride with a theme, the idea being to cross all rideable bridges leading from and back to Pittsburgh. Ride via Washington Blvd. to 1: Highland Park Bridge. Through Sharpsburg to 2: 62nd St. (Fleming) Bridge. Butler St. to 3: 40th St. Bridge. Right and another right into the boathouse area to catch the start of the North Shore Bike Trail. Ride under and then circle around and cross 4: 31st St. Bridge. Penn Ave. to 5: 16th St. Bridge. Right past the old Heinz plant, now condominiums, and another right to River Rd. and Gen. Robinson St. to 6: 9th St. Bridge to 7: 7th St. Bridge to 8: 6th St. Bridge. Ride to Point State Park and, using the bikeway, cross 9: Fort Duquesne Bridge. North Shore Ave. and Ridge Ave. to 10: West End Bridge. Carson St. to 15: Smithfield St. Bridge. 2nd Ave. downtown to 12: 10th St. Bridge. Cross Carson St. and go right on McArdle Roadway to 13: Fort Pitt Bridge. Forbes Ave. to 14: Birmingham (Brady St.) Bridge. Carson St. to 15: Hot Metal Bridge. Right on 2nd Ave. and follow it through Hazelwood across 16: Glenwood Bridge. Follow SR837 to Homestead and up 17: Homestead High Level (Pittsburgh Grays) Bridge, the only climb on the ride, to Beechwood Blvd. and the end of Murray Ave. in Squirrel Hill [45 miles].

Past Tarentum to Freeport and Beyond

Going northeast beyond Tarentum, it’s best to leave Freeport Rd. for a while by taking a hard right at the Tarentum Bridge intersection, keeping to the right of the bridge. Follow the road into lower Tarentum along the river (River Rd.). There are four main ways to get off this road, all by climbing left, back up to Freeport Rd. The first climb is on Mile Lock Way, where River Rd. comes to an end at part of Allegheny Ludlum Steel Corp. The next, and most obvious climb will lead you back to Freeport Rd. (right) in time to take Furer/Saxonburg Rd. to the left and join the SR228 ride. Going farther on the road next to the river (now Karns Rd.) will lead to two more climbs. The first (Burtner Rd.) leads to a crossing of Freeport Rd. and, later, SR28, leading up to Ridge Rd. and Culmerville-Millerstown Rd. The next and best climb (Oak Manor Dr.) joins Freeport Rd. near the crest of the hill before the straight, long, hair-raising descent into Freeport. Instead of descending, just past the summit you can go left at a flash- ing yellow light on Culmerville-Millerstown Rd., which eventually runs into the Red Belt. On the other side of Freeport, what was Freeport Rd. becomes SR128, which keeps heading north along the river, to Ford City and Kitanning.

Boggsville — 70 miles

North of Freeport, Old SR28 turns into SR128, a winding, hilly rural road, eventually leading to Ford City, just south of Kittanning (see Ford City). A number of attractive roads lead to the left (west) toward Saxonburg. Here is one example, shown me by Tyrone Gregg. Past Freeport and after the climb out of town, leave SR128 by bearing left on Freeport-Kitanning Rd., to a left on Furnace Run Rd. to Boggsville; left on Sarver Rd. Go left briefly on SR356 to join SR228 to the right. Take SR228 to Ekastown Rd. (left) to Howes Run Rd. (right), which ends at Bull Creek Rd. (the Red Belt), leading left to Tarentum. Return on Freeport Rd. [70 miles].

Freeport-Butler Trail — 75 miles

The entrance at Laneville near Freeport is unimproved and very nearly unrideable on a road bike. Instead, at the top of the steep hill down into Freeport, go left on Millerstown & Culmerville Rd. Just before SR28 turn right on Silverville Rd. toward Evangel Hts., crossing under SR28, turning right and proceeding to SR356 (carefully left). Turn right at Kepple Rd. (possibly not marked). Look for the trail just past a bicycle sign. In a bit you’ll see the beginning of the hard-packed limestone trail ahead. This is a beautiful trail. After the halfway point, past Cabot and Marwood, it turns more to open fields. At various places it threatens to peter out, until finally it does peter out at Herman. Go a ways toward Butler on Butler-Herman Rd., then left on Simon Dr. across SR356; left then right on Blakely Rd. becoming pretty Rockdale Rd. Left on Dinnerbell Rd. and right on Morgan Rd., forking left on Anderson Rd., becoming Spring Valley Rd. Left on SR228 to Saxonburg Blvd. Return through Etna [75 miles].

Butler via the Trail — 95 miles

Take Freeport-Butler Trail to the end at Herman. Herman Rd. leads to Butler on Zeigler St. Left on SR456 out of town, turning right at the top of the hill on Saxonburg Rd.. Quickly take Bull Creek Rd. right, later right on Patterson Rd., into Frazer Rd., briefly right on Dinnerbell Rd. under an overpass to a left on Victory Rd., which leads into Saxonburg Blvd. going back to Etna [95 miles].

Iron Bridge Rd — 70 miles

The new bridge is made of reinforced concrete, no iron. Take SR128 out of Freeport. Where SR128 goes north to Ford City, turn left on Horseshoe Rd. Take Horseshoe Rd. to Iron Bridge Rd. (left), to Sarver Rd. (left), to SR 356 (left and then right on SR228). At Saxonburg Rd. turn briefly left and then right on Goldscheiter Rd. to Lardintown Rd. (left), to the Red Belt (right). Left on Dellenbaugh Rd. (a ghost Rd.). Follow to Days Run Rd. (right and then left on Kerr Rd., over through and out Deer Lakes Park). Return through Russellton, Gulf Lab Rd., Freeport Rd., Highland Park Bridge [70 miles].

Leisureville — 75 miles

Start as under Iron Bridge. Leisureville is where Kepple Rd. runs into Sarver Rd., across which the road changes names to Leasureville Rd., which takes you all the way to Cabot at Winfield-Cabot Rd. Left into the edge of Saxonburg, out on Rebecca St.=Saxonburg Rd. to SR228, right then left on Lardintown Rd. to the Red Belt (Bull Cr. Rd.), from where you can find your way home [75 miles].

Saxonburg via the Trail — 65 miles

Start out as under Butler-Freeport Trail. Take the trail to Cabot. Left on Cabot-Winfield Rd., becoming Alwine Rd. across SR356. Left on Neupert Rd. into Saxonburg. Follow the signs to Knoch High School and leave town on Knoch School Rd. going south. Right on Saxonburg Blvd. to SR228, joining up with Saxonburg Blvd. going south in about a mile. Return on Saxonburg Blvd. [65 miles].

Cabot-Winfield — 75 miles

Take SR128 out of Freeport, but go straight when SR128 goes right to Ford City. Pass through Slate Lick and continue straight on the next small road (past the quaint convenience store with the seasonal tableaux in the window). It ends in a nice wooded descent (where I once encountered a rabid racoon) and joins up with Cabot-Winfield Rd. (left) up a long straight ascent. Cabot-Winfield Rd. leads to Saxonburg. For an attractive detour, take Cornplanter Rd. left, right on Leisureville Rd. turning into Stoney Hollow Rd., rejoining Cabot-Winfield Rd. at Cabot. Left to Saxonburg, then left out of town on Freeport Rd. to SR228, right and then left on Lardintown Rd., with return as described under Saxonburg Blvd. [75 miles].

Star Grille Rd. — 90 miles

A way to Butler. Follow Cabot-Winfield to Cabot-Winfield Rd. Take this to Bear Creek Rd. Turn right on Bear Creek Rd., observing the nifty baby-bear sculpture on the right at the corner. At Marwood Rd. jog right and left onto Star Grille Rd., eventually becoming Schnur Rd., to a left on Herman Rd. (large convent turned into reform school on your right), which takes you into Butler on Zeigler St. Left on SR356 and up the hill. Right on Saxonburg Rd. and another right on Bull Creek Rd., then several miles to a left on Frazier Rd. At Dinnerbell Rd. turn briefly right, then left on Victory Rd. which, if you follow it to SR228, becomes Saxonburg Rd., which you take back to Pittsburgh [90 pretty easy miles].

Clearfield Rd. — 90 miles

Another pretty way to end up in Butler. Follow Cabot-Winfield to the bottom of the Cabot-Winfield Rd. hill. Instead of turning left up the hill, go straight. This is or becomes Clearfield Rd. At Herman Rd. turn left and go through Herman. See Star Grille Rd. for the way to Butler and return [90 miles].

Marwood — 65 miles

Take Freeport Rd. to Days Run Rd., then right on 908Ext. to a T. Left to the Red Belt. Briefly right and then left on Lardintown Rd. Cross Millersburg and Freeport Rd. Turn right on Goldscheiter Rd. to Ekastown Rd. Briefly left to SR228, then right to SR356. Left and then right on Sarver Rd. In Sarver turn left on Bear Creek Rd., a long flat road which eventually ends in a T at Marwood Rd. Go left at the T on Marwood Rd., and cross SR356 on Neupert Rd., leading into Saxonburg. Left on Rebecca St. to SR228 and return (see SR228) [65 miles].

Saxonburg Via SR228 — 65 miles

Travel to Saxonburg via Saxonburg Blvd. (at SR228, turn right, then left). Take Main St.=Dinner Bell Rd. west out of town. Just outside town fork left on Golden City Rd., eventually left on Morgan Rd., becoming Logan Rd. to SR228. Right, then left on Browners Rd, becoming Overbrook Rd., then left on Brownshill Rd. Right on Sandy Hill Rd., left on Glasgow Rd. to the Red Belt. Right and then left on Shepard Rd. Follow Shepard Rd., McIntyre Rd., becoming Turner Rd. across SR910. Left on Hardies Rd. to Middle Rd. Extension. Turn right and return through Etna on Middle Rd. [65 miles].

Ford City (***) — 90 miles

This highly recommended ride represents more or less the north- eastern-most limit of the Freeport Rd. option. In Freeport, SR28 (Freeport Rd.) turns into SR128, a winding country road leading into Ford City. Sadly, the long dangerous open-grate bridge into Ford City over the Allegheny River was blown up several years ago and replaced with a modern one. After the bridge you are met on the left by a nice section of the Armstrong Bike Trail, which allows you to bypass most of Ford City. Keep to the left of the main road out of town. Stock up on supplies before leaving town, because it’s a desert for the next 20-30 miles. Past Manorville, with SR28 high overhead, turn right on Garretts Run Rd., and follow it for nearly 20 miles. The terrain over to Shay, Brick Church, and Spring Church is radically up and down, isolated, and pretty. Spring Church deposits you on SR56 (Dime Rd.), a too-heavily traveled road, but with a shoulder, which will take you into Apollo, with return as per Strongland [95 miles]. If you’re a masochist, you can ride from Ford City to Leechburg on SR66. It’s trafficky, but there is a shoulder. Across the Leechburg Bridge join SR56 and take it to Spooky Hollow Rd. (right), and return as under Spooky Hollow. [90 miles].

Crooked Creek — 90 miles

You know it’s a good ride when so many roads end in “Hollow Rd.” Similar to Ford City, but it returns through Leechburg instead of Apollo. Across from the Citgo station at the far edge of Ford City, go up Fort Run Rd. (right at the top). Left on Stitt Hollow Rd., then right on Smelzer’s Flat Rd., then right at the T on Campbell Hollow/Run Rd. Briefly left on Little German Rd., then right and up Brown Hill Rd. to State Park Rd. Left on State Park Rd. through Crooked Creek State Park, joining SR66 left for a nine mile ride into Leechburg, with two major climbs along the way. At Lookabaugh Corner (not marked, but there’s a traffic light and signs to Bagdad and Schenley), get to the left on a parallel road (Evergreen Rd.) down to Leechburg. Cross the bridge and immediately go right up West Leechburg Hill Rd., left on Pleasant Hill Rd. Cross SR356 on McKutcheon Shortcut to a right on SR56, and take this to Spooky Hollow Rd. Finish as under Spooky Hollow [90 miles].

Armstrong Trail

Here’s a potentially great trail that’s frustratingly hard to get to, which so far is O.K., because it has a nearly unrideable surface, consisting of dirt and sharp railroad ballast. It runs across the Allegheny River from Freeport from Schenley north through Ford City and Kitanning all the way to Brady’s Bend. The problem is that the Freeport Bridge leaves you on the wrong side of the Kiskiminetas River from Schenley, and there’s no way to cross until Leechburg. Best not to try this trail until you hear the surface has been updated.

Garvers Ferry (***) — 55 miles

I learned this ride in the 1970s from Oscar Rattenborg,. Take Freeport Rd. to the Yellow Belt, then U-PARC (Old Gulf Reseach Center) Rd. to Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. North through Russellton to Millerstown, then take the Millerstown-Culmerville Rd. back to Freeport Rd. at the top of the long steep downgrade into Freeport. At the bottom of the descent, circle around across the Garver’s Ferry Bridge, following signs to SR356 and Leechburg. Past the climb away from the river, take the next through road to the right, past a regional the- ater on the left. At the next intersection, turn right. This is Garver’s Ferry Rd., leading to Lower Burrell-New Kensington (with many little hills and a hard climb just before Lower Burrell). Cross SR366 on what is also called Freeport Rd. Go left at the T, then right, again on SR366, eventually running into the Orange Belt. Continue straight where the Orange Belt goes left, on Oakmont and Logans Ferry (=Coxcomb) Rd. This is now the Coxcomb Hill ride), eventually joining the Yellow Belt into Oakmont. Return via Allegheny River Blvd. [55 miles].

Shearersburg — 65 miles

Once across the bridge at Freeport, there are almost no flat parts to this largely rural ride. Follow the Garver’s Ferry ride to SR356. Ride past the turnoffs mentioned there, past the defunct gas station on the left, and up and down the next hill on SR356. Soon you will see a narrow inviting road lead- ing to the right (Armstrong Rd.), which will lead to a larger road leading left to Shearersburg and through Markle to SR780. Take SR780 left until Merwin Rd. (right), which leads to SR366. Briefly right and then left up Drennen Rd., which turns into Renton Rd. across Sardis Rd. and eventually joins the Orange Belt at New Texas. Right and then left on Old Leechburg Rd. Follow this to the right, eventually under the Turnpike and a railroad overpass. Left after the overpass on Leechburg Rd., which leads up to Saltsburg Rd. (right). Take Saltsburg Rd. across Frankstown Rd. and Sandy Creek Rd. This is now Verona Rd. and the Green Belt, which will take you into Wilkinsburg via Robinson Blvd. [65 miles].

Strongland — 75 miles

Strongland is a chamber-of-commerce designation for an area along the Kiskiminetas River incorporating parts of Armstrong and Westmoreland counties. Start out as under Garver’s Ferry. Continue straight on SR356 and the climb. Past the top, look for a promising left-hand road (Piper Rd.), taking you down a narrow descent into West Leechburg. Keep basically straight till you get to the road going across the bridge to Leechburg (left). Cross the bridge into Leechburg and turn right. Follow SR66 south along the Kiskiminetas River to North Vandergrift. Turn left up SR66 Alt. Look for Garver’s Ferry Rd. (you can’t miss it, and you’ll need your lowest gear). Follow this winding road over to SR56 (right) and fall back down to Apollo. You can avoid all this climbing by going from North Vandergrift straight into Apollo, but the Garver’s Ferry hill is worth doing. Left and then sharp right up the hill to Oklahoma. Straight through the intersec- tion at the top to a junction with SR356. Left and then right across SR356. Take the next right turn and follow the road through Northmoreland Park to Markle. Straight through Markle, then keep right to the first main road (Melwood Park Rd.), which you take left. Follow this across the junction with SR56 on Spooky Hollow Rd. (pictured above), eventually joining the road going into Lower Burrell (at the little market). Left to Lower Burrell via the climb that is even tougher if you stop at the market for refreshment. Return as under Garver’s Ferry [75 miles].

Kiskiminitas Township — 85 miles

Based on a version of the Strongland road race, designed, I suspect, by Jim Spaniel. It’s nice riding, but the race must have been brutal. Start as under Strongland, but take River Rd. to Apollo, then turn left on SR56. At the second traffic light go right on Pennsylvania Ave., becoming Old State Rd. Right on Jackson road, right up very steep Brownstown Rd., left on Beaulah Church Rd. At the top of the the hill to Salina, go left instead, on Edmond Rd., and again left, keeping on Edmond Rd. Briefly right on Blacks Hollow Rd., right on Martin Rd., right on Flat Rock Rd., sharp left on Allshouse Rd. to Maysville. Take SR156 right and cross the Kiskiminitas River through the dusty town of Avonmore, whose tiny food store smells of cat urine. It takes a lot of nerve to run a race across a long open-grate bridge like the one to Avonmore. I ride on the sidewalk. SR156 ends at SR981, so continue first on Nelson Rd., later on St. James Church Rd. Left a the T at SR819 to a right on surprisingly ridable SR280 (right), crossing Beaver Reservoir. A mile or so past Mamont, there’s another rest stop smelling like cat urine. Ride to a right on Sardis Rd. just after SR286 joins SR380. Take Sardis Rd. to the Orange Belt (left), right on Shearer Rd. through Milltown to Hulton Rd. (the Yellow Belt, left). Return through Penn Hills, to Frankstown Rd. and into Wilkinsburg [90 miles]. Adair Rd. shortcuts from Edmond Rd. all the way to SR156 just before Avonmore, but if you do that you have to subtract five miles and call the ride Avonmore [85 miles].

SR286 (Saltsurg Rd.)

SR286 (Saltsburg Rd.), at least the stretch from Saltsburg to Penn Hills, despite appearances on a map, is perfectly ridable, and should be considered as a return route from rides in the east. As it comes west and joins SR380, it’s best to turn right on Logans Ferry Rd. (often called Sardis Rd.) and return through Penn Hills.

Dime — 80 miles

Get somehow to Leechburg. I’d recommend going to the Garvers Ferry Bridge at Freeport and following SR356 to a left down the hill into town. Across the bridge go straight on SR66, but bear right on Raymond Rd./Evergreen Rd., eventually coming back into SR66. Right on Myers Rd., then right on Alt. SR66 to a right at the village of Dime on Hungry Hollow Rd. up and mostly down to Airport Rd. Right to SR66 (River Rd.), and left to Apollo. Across the Kiskiminetas River, go right on Orr Rd. up through Oklahoma, then left and right at SR356 onto Markle Rd. Left on Rich Hill Rd. to Milligantown Rd. Cross SR56 on what is now Wildlife Lodge Rd. to Leechburg Rd. (left) to a right on SR366 across the Tarentum Bridge. Return on Old Freeport Rd. [80 miles].

Beyond Leechburg

There is a dense network of nice roads beyond Leechburg, not documented here, because by the time one gets to Leechburg, it is time to start heading back. If you live out this way, you are in luck. Many of the towns have picturesque names: Dime, Hicksville, Equitable, Whiskey Run, Riggles Crossroads, Old Gum Tree, Girty, Idaho, Tunnelville, and others.

SR366 out of New Kensington and West

Reach New Kensington by taking Freeport Rd. to the Orange Belt and crossing the bridge to New Kensington. Follow the Orange Belt to where it turns right (toward Oakmont), but go briefly left and then right, on SR366 (Old Greensburg Rd.). This is a busy road, and it has a lousy shoulder, but it is a good way to connect to any of six outstanding climbs to the right (west) to Sardis Rd.: via Webster Rd. Polecat Hollow Rd., Wright Rd., Old Leechburg Rd., Drennen Rd., Beighley Rd., or Hankey Church Rd. There are other climbs further along, but SR366 loses its shoulder after SR380, and is dangerous. All six climbs are different, and they all suggest different possibilities for continuation.

Polecat Hollow — 40 miles

From SR366 out of New Kensington, take Webster Rd. / Polecat Hollow Rd. (right). A longish hill leads to the Orange Belt coming over the hill from New Kensington. Follow the Orange Belt straight, until a right on Shearer Rd. Take this to Milltown, then Hulton Rd. (right) to Oakmont [40 miles].

International Teleport — 40 miles

As under Polecat Hollow, take Webster Rd. / Polecat Hollow Rd. right. Fork right up very steep Wright Rd. (a ghost road). Eventually you will come upon what looks like a space station, an assortment of gigantic TV relay dishes facing in all directions, at the Pittsburgh International Teleport. Turn right down Browntown Rd., joining with Memorial Ave., left on Entrance Rd. to the Orange Belt (left). Check where you come out, so you can make this climb some time from the New Kensington side. See Coxcomb Hill for the return [40 miles]. Turning left on Browntown Rd. at the space station leads into the Orange Belt almost at the top of the Logans Ferry climb (see Logans Ferry).

Old Leechburg Rd — 40 miles

From SR366 out of New Kensington, go right up Old Leechburg Rd., crossing Sardis Rd., taking you into Unity. Bear right, go under a trestle, then turn left on Leechburg Rd. to Saltsburg Rd. (right). Follow Saltsburg Rd. across Frankstown Rd. and Sandy Hill Rd. Right up Lincoln Rd., past Nadine Rd., becoming Lincoln Ave. through the Lincoln-Lemington part of town [40 miles].

Drennen Rd. — 45 miles

Take SR366 out of New Kensington. Go right up Drennen Rd., becoming Renton Rd. to the Orange Belt at New Texas. Right, then left on Center New Texas Rd. to SR380 (Saltsburg Rd.). Right and then left on Monroeville Trestle Rd. Right on Old Frankstown Rd., becoming Lott Rd. Left on Universal Rd. to Frankstown Rd. (left) to Pittsburgh [45 miles].

Beighley Rd. — 45 miles

Has to be done at least once a season. Go right up Beighley Rd. just past Drennen Rd. An unforgettable climb. Right at the top (Hankey Church Rd.) to the Orange Belt. Left in Plum on Old Leechburg Rd. See Old Leechburg Rd. for continuation [45 miles].

Hankey Church Rd. — 50 miles

This is probably the mildest of the SR366-and-west options. Hankey Church Rd. (there’s a cemetery, but the church has been replaced by a golf course) leads right from SR366 after Beighley Rd. and before Silvis Hollow Rd. It joins Beighley Rd. at the top and eventually leads to Sardis Rd. Go left on Sardis Rd. and follow the Logans Ferry ride [50 miles].

Silvis Hollow — 50 miles

Also known as 366-286-380. Take SR366 out of New Kensington and take it past SR380, where it becomes very busy. Go right on Silvis Hollow Rd., which leads to SR286 (right). Take this to SR380 (left), and follow SR380 all the way back into Pittsburgh on Frankstown Ave. [50 miles].

SR366 out of New Kensington and East

Another option from SR366 out of New Kensington is to go left (east), for example on Dutchman(s) (Run) Rd., Myers Rd., Menk(s) Rd., Merwin Rd., Whitten Hollow Rd. (gravel). All of these lead to SR780, from where you may go either right to North Washington; left back toward New Kensington; or forge more or less straight, into Strongland territory. Most of these roads can be reached equally well by going east through Penn Hills, climbing to the Orange Belt, and connecting with Sardis Rd., with descents to SR366 on Polecat Hollow Rd., Old Leechburg Rd., Drennen Rd., or Hankey Church Rd.

Dutchmans Run Rd. — 40 miles

Climb challenging Dutchmans Run Rd. to the left out of New Kensington. Go right on SR780 to Myers or Menks Rd. (right). Descend to SR366 and climb up Old Leechburg Rd., finishing as under Old Leechburg Rd. [40 miles].

Tarentum Bridge — 40 miles

At Tarentum, follow the bridge over the Allegheny River on SR366. Right at a stoplight on what is called Freeport Rd. and finish through New Kensington as under Garvers Ferry [40 miles].

Wildlife Lodge — 45 miles

Begin as under Tarentum Bridge, but turn left on Leechburg Rd. to Wildlife Lodge Rd. (right). Follow this across SR56, bearing right until SR780 (left). Right on Myers Rd. Cross SR366 and climb up Old Leechburg Rd. See Old Leechburg Rd. for the return [45 miles].

Falcons Park Rd. — 45 miles

A superb climb. Like Wildlife Lodge, but turn right off Leechburg Rd. sooner, on Craig Dell Rd., becoming Falcon(s) Park Rd. beyond SR56. This takes you up to SR780 (left). Right on Dutchmans Run Rd. (nice descent), left on SR366 to Webster Rd. (right, nice ascent), encountering the Orange Belt at the top (straight). Right on Shearer Rd., left on Milltown Rd., right on the Yellow Belt into Oakmont, returning on Allegheny River Blvd. [45 miles].

Allegheny River Blvd.

Accessed from the bottom of Washington Blvd., this road east to Verona and Oakmont is heavily traveled by rude traffic, and has a lot of gravel and brush on it, but there are shoulders, and it is an alternative to the Highland Park Bridge. The climb up Nadine Rd. just outside town leads into the exit from town via Lincoln Ave., if you are concerned about avoiding that part of town. If you turn right on the Yellow Belt (Hulton Rd.) in Oakmont instead of going left over the Hulton Bridge, the road takes you up a steep but not very long hill to a number of shorter, mostly hilly rides. Most of these rides may be more easily reached via the Lincoln Ave. way out of town, and are described there.

Hulton Bridge — 15 miles

A short and flat ride is to take Allegheny River Blvd. to the Hulton Bridge and then back on Freeport Rd. Or vice versa [15 miles].

Hunter Rd — 25 miles

A short loop, with some great climbing. Hunter Rd. leaves Allegheny River Blvd. between Verona and Oakmont just past Daily’s Juice Co. (it’s called Plum St. at the bottom), and leads into Penn Hills. You’ll be surprised to find a hill this long so close to town. Follow the road to Hamill Rd., then left to Indiana Rd. (right), joining Hulton Rd. (right), returning on Saltsburg Rd. and Lincoln Rd. and Ave. [25 miles].

Boyce Park Wave Pool — 40 miles

Take Allegheny River Blvd to the end in Oakmont, then right up the hill, right on Hulton Rd. to Leechburg Rd. and follow it around left under the Turnpike. In Plum, turn right on the Orange Belt and follow it all the way past SR380. Before meeting SR286 take a right down Lindsay Ln. Right on Old Frankstown Rd. past the Boyce Park Wave Pool. Once again at the Orange Belt, turn left and then right on Old Frankstown Rd., becoming Lott Rd. At Main St. in Universal go more or less straight, on Universal Rd., which takes you to the Yellow Belt and Frankstown Rd. Right and then left on Lime Hollow Rd. to Sandy Creek Rd. (SR130). Right and then left on Verona Rd. (The Green Belt), and follow this into Wilkinsburg [40 miles].

White Cloud Rd. — 55 miles

Great ride, lots of little twisty hilly roads. As under Boyce Wave Pool, turn up the hill out of Oakmont with continuation to the Orange Belt, but left on Ross Hollow Rd. in Plum, left on Old Leechburg Rd., right on Sardis Rd. to Renton Rd. (left), and down to SR366. Right and then left on Renton Rd., fork left and then right on Lower Drennen Rd. Across SR780 on Manchester Hill Rd. to Milligantown Rd. (left), right on Schafer Rd., joining Markle Rd. (left) to Melwood (Park) Rd. (left), to a right on Copeland Rd. to a left on White Cloud Rd. After the overpass over SR56, take the first left (Lynch Rd.), left on Hulton Rd. to a right on Spooky Hollow Rd. If Copeland Rd. is still washed out, then turn right on Markle Rd. to Markle, then left on White Cloud Rd. [55 miles].

Returning on SR130

Rides returning on SR130 through Pitcairn and Turtle Creek have many options for getting back to Pittsburgh, the best being a) Braddock Ave. through Braddock and Swissvale; b) Center St. through East Pittsburgh to a right on Brinton Rd.; c) Ardmore Blvd. through Forest Hills to Wilkinsburg; d) Greensburg Pike through Wilkinsburg; e) Beulah Rd. (SR130) to Penn Ave. outside Wilkinsburg; f) 4th St. out of Braddock up through the Monongahela Cemetery to Brinton Rd. (referred to as “Alpe d’Huez” because of its many switchbacks); g) Ravine St. up to Brinton Rd.

Earl St./Alpe d’Huez — 10 miles

This ride doesn’t even get you past Braddock. Shown to me by Dan Chew, who fell over trying to climb it the time I went with him, as did I. Tom Chew just barely made it. From Hawkins Ave. in N. Braddock (see above), turn left on Earl St. to the top. It’s brick on two sides, with belgium block in the middle, and goes up in four stages. Left at the top (if you’re still there) over to the Monongahela Cemetery. Go up through the nice switchbacks (Alpe d’Huez) through the cemetery to Brinton Rd. Left on Brinton Rd., becoming Maple Ave. in Edgewood. Right on Edgewood Ave., then left under the underpass, then right on Swissvale Ave. to Hutchinson St. Left to Braddock Ave. in Regent Square [10 miles]. One street farther than Earl St., called Coalmont St., does the job almost as well.

Wilkins Ave — 10 miles

A winter’s after-work ride. Along Hawkins Ave. (see the intro. to this section above), catch Wilkins Ave. heading off to the left. This is a good climb up to Brinton Rd. (left), back through Edgewood [10 miles].

Sixth St — 10 miles

Equally as good as Wilkins Ave. is the climb reached by turning left off Hawkins Ave. on Middle St. (left) to 6th St. (right), also climbing to Brinton Rd. (left), back through Edgewood [10 miles].

Ravine St — 15 miles

In the same vein as the foregoing two rides, just outside Braddock on Braddock Ave., take Ravine St. to the left up to Brinton Rd., left into Edgewood. for conclusion. Ravine St. is often used as an alternative to Braddock Ave. for rides returning through Braddock [15 miles]. Some of the area’s best straight-up belgium-block climbs are to be found in the hills behind Braddock.

Pitcairn Rd — 25 miles

Take Wall Ave. left in Pitcairn. This turns into Pitcairn Rd., which leads to Monroeville Blvd., then right to the Orange Belt (Moss Side Blvd. and SR48). Turn right and then fork left on Haymaker Rd., which takes you back to SR130 outside Trafford. Return on SR130 through Turtle Creek, then Braddock Ave. through Braddock [25 miles].

Moss Side Blvd — 35 miles

Following the departure from Pitcairn on SR130, take a left on the Orange Belt (Moss Side Blvd. and SR48), and ride the gradual uphill stretch into Monroeville. Continue on the Orange Belt across Wm. Penn Hwy. Left on Old Frankstown Rd. becoming Lott Rd., returning via Universal Rd., Saltsburg Rd., Sandy Creek Rd., Allegheny River Blvd. [35 miles]. The USS Edgar Thompson steel works looms out of the early-morning mist over Braddock, seen from Woodstock Ave.

Long Run Rd — 35 miles

A sort of symmetrical alternative to Moss Side Blvd. If you turn right on SR48 from SR130 out of Pitcairn (the Orange Belt), this road (Jacks Run Rd.) becomes Long Run Rd., somewhat too heavily traveled most times of the day. A long climb leads up and over to the other side of McKeesport, to SR148 (right). Follow SR148 to the Yellow Belt (right), then left (off the Yellow Belt) over the McKeesport Bridge, returning along SR837 and the Rankin or Homestead Bridge [35 miles].

Saunders Station Rd — 35 miles

Take SR130 out of Pitcairn through Trafford on SR130. In Trafford, turn right on SR993 to where the climb out of town begins. Left on First Street, which turns into a neat climb. Left at the top, still on First St., running into SR130 at Level Green. Left on SR130 and then soon right on Saunders Sta. Rd. Left at the top of the dip. Follow Saunders Station Rd. for quite a way, eventually up a hard climb to join Haymaker Rd. Right to Moss Side Blvd. (SR48), then left on Monroeville Blvd. to a left on Pitcairn Rd. and return via SR130 [35 miles].

Old Ramsey Rd — 30 miles

I missed spotting this climb for years, but Glenn Snyder tells me it’s well known to runners. Take SR130 out of Pitcairn, turning left on Old Forbes Rd., passing Haymaker Rd. on the left. (Old) Ramsey Rd. departs left in a mile or so. It’s a long, moderately hard climb that takes you into Haymaker Rd., after which you can return as under Saunders Station Rd. [30 miles].

Meadowbrook Rd — 50 miles

When someone asks you whether there are any hills on this ride, you are supposed to answer ‘oh, just a couple of rollers’. Take Old Ramsey Rd. to Haymaker Rd. to a right on Saunders Sta. Rd. down a swooping hill and up again, left on Meadowbrook Rd. (this is where some riders will turn around in protest). Continue to SR130 (left) to Harbison Rd. (left), to Pleasant Valley Rd. (left), up over another ridiculous hill into Murrysville, and back as under Pleasant Valley Rd. [50 miles].

Boxcartown Rd — 65 miles

Start out as under Saunders Station Rd. above, i.e. take SR130 through Trafford. A couple of miles past Level Green on the left will be an inconspicuous road where Paintertown Rd. meets SR130 from the right. This is Harbison Rd. Take it left to Pleasant Valley Rd. Go briefly left on Pleasant Valley Rd. and then right at the first opportunity, on Snyder Rd., a good but short hill. This becomes Boxcartown Rd. and then School Rd. to the right. Past Holland Rd. it becomes Sarver Rd. Left on Denmark Manor Rd., past Claridge-Export Rd. and continue on Frye Rd., becoming Bo(u)quet Rd., keep- ing left along the edge of the golf course. This will cross US22 into the edge of Delmont. Turn left on Manor Rd., right on Wilson Rd., which leads to Old Wm. Penn Hwy. (left). Finish as under Bushy Run [65 miles].

Export — 60 miles

A variation of Boxcartown Rd. Start out as under Paintertown Rd., i.e. on SR993 to Irwin. At Irwin take Paintertown Rd. left-and-right to SR130, cross it, and take Harbison Rd. to Pleasant Valley Rd. Left and right up Snyder Rd. Then right on School Rd., but soon left on a short downhill gravelly road (Holland Rd.) to what becomes Claridge-Export Rd. Take this toward US22, forking right and under US22 into Export. Take the main road left to a right on Hills Church Rd. just outside town, following it left when it goes left. This runs into Wiestertown Rd., which heads north to Hilty Rd. and SR286 (left). Like many other roads in this area. Wiestertown provides an object lesson in encroaching suburbia, with old farms alternating with tacky new subdivisions. Return as under Washington Township below [60 miles].

Washington Township — 65 miles

Lower Washington Twp. past Murrysville, bounded by US22 on the south SR66 on the east, SR366 on the north, and SR286 on the west, has a lot of nice riding. Here is a sampler. Somehow, get to Export (for example, by the ride of that name.) Go right on Pittsburgh St. to Borland Farm Rd (left), then left on Italy Rd. Where Italy Rd. goes left, go instead straight down a small road joining with Kemerer Hollow Rd. (right), which soon turns to Hilty Rd. Left on Steele Rd., right on Christy Rd. to SR286, which to the left will eventually lead to a junction with SR380. Take SR380 right briefly until a right onto what is marked as Logans Ferry Rd., bu on maps often as Sardis Rd., eventually running into the Orange Belt at the top of Polecat Hollow Rd. Left to Shearer Rd. (right), left on Milltown Rd. to the Yellow Belt, returning through Penn Hills on Saltsburg Rd. and Lincoln Rd. [65 miles]

Jeannette — 45 miles

Bud Harris’ classic ride could easily have qualified for three-star sta- tus.. Take SR130 from Pitcairn to Trafford. In Trafford, turn right on SR993, and follow it to Irwin. Go up the hill into Irwin, leaving SR993 through town, and turn left, toward Penn Glyn, Straw Pump, Adamsburg. Turn left on Adamsburg Rd. (SR3077). Join up with SR130 just short of Jeannette, and return through Harrison City on SR130 [45 miles].

Harrison City — 40 miles

For a shorter ride than Jeannette, take SR993 out of Irwin and intersect with SR130 at Harrison City, returning via SR130 [40 miles].

Tastyland — 55 miles

Tastyland is a small, old-fashioned soft ice cream shop that stands like an oasis in the desert north of Greensburg, where Old SR66 joins the new toll road 66. Follow SR993 from Irwin to SR66, cross it, turn right, and con- tinue a mile or so until the road comes to an end, again at SR66 and Tastyland. The return road, Locust Valley Rd., just to the right of the shop, intersects with SR130 at the edge of Jeannette. Return via SR130 through Harrison City, Trafford, Pitcairn, Turtle Creek, Braddock [55 miles].

Greensburg — 70 miles

SR130 goes through Jeannette to Greensburg, the Westmoreland County seat, over a road that becomes a divided highway, but with a shoulder that is safe enough to ride on. Take SR819 north out of Greensburg to Forbes Rd. (SR1032). Left and follow the beginning of the Forbes Rd. ride in reverse, joining SR993 back through Irwin and Trafford [70 miles].

Paintertown — 35 miles

A number of nice roads connect SR993 with SR130, making loops of various lengths similar to Harrison City, for example Pine Hollow Rd. or Baker School Rd. Probably the nicest is Paintertown Rd., which departs to the left from SR993 at the bottom of the hill into Irwin (take a left under an underpass, then a hard right). Paintertown Rd. meets SR130 just beyond Level Green. When you get to the Paintertown hill, you can avoid it by going right, on Old Farm Rd., which also takes you to SR130 and a return. Around [35 miles].

Haywood Hill — 35 miles

Take someone on this ride when you notice they have only a 21 or 23-tooth cog on the back for a low gear. You yourself will probably need lower than what you have. Haywood Rd. goes off to the left from SR993 just past Ardara. Cross Baker School Rd. The resulting hill is the more challenging in that you don’t expect it to keep on going and going. Left on Scotch Hill Rd. and keep straight to Paintertown Rd. (left, then left at SR130, and back through Turtle Creek [35 miles].

Mahaffey Hill — 40 miles

Another ride to surprise your undergeared friends with. Go through Trafford toward Irwin on SR993. Just after the hill outside Trafford, go right and dog-leg back over Brush Creek. This is Mahaffey Hill Rd., the cen- terpiece of the ride. At the top, continue leftish-straight on Baird Rd., becoming Ardara Rd., which deposits you downhill at the foot of Leger Rd. Either go straight up Leger Rd. and do the reverse of White Oak Park [40 miles]; or go left to SR993. Briefly right and then bear left on Haywood Hill (see the ride by that name) [40 miles].

Three Neat Hills — 45 miles

From SR993 going toward Irwin, follow Haywood Hill (first neat hill). Take Paintertown Rd. to SR130 (left). Turn right onto Meadowbrook Rd. Follow Meadowbrook Rd. (second neat hill, even if short) to Saunders Station Rd. Turn right and follow Saunders Station Rd. (neat hill #3) to Haymaker Rd. Turn right on Haymaker Rd. and join Moss Side Blvd. just before Monroeville Blvd.=Northern Pike. Turn left on Monroeville Blvd.=Northern Pike and, at the bottom of the first downhill, turn left on Pittcairn Rd., which will lead back to Pittcairn. Right on SR130 to Turtle Creek and return [45 miles].

Pleasant Valley (***) — 65 miles

Some people might consider the name ‘pleasant’ misleading. We once lost a visiting cyclist on this ride who had the injudiciousness to bring only a 21-tooth rear cog. Next morning his car was still where he parked it, and he was never heard from. Begin as under Harrison City, but at Westmoreland City, after the underpass, turn left and climb up to SR130 (Sandy Hill Rd.). Cross SR130 and keep going (Pleasant Valley Rd.). There is a really steep climb and a steep descent going up and over into Murrysville at US22. In Murrysville, keep going, across US22, on Sardis Rd. Left on SR286, right on Logans Ferry Rd. to the Orange Belt (left). Right on Shearer Rd., Left on Milltown Rd., right on Hulton Rd. (Yellow Belt) to Oakmont, returning on Allegheny River Blvd. [65 miles].

Camp Jo-Ann — 55 miles

Camp Jo-Ann is an unrecognizable place at the intersection of SR380 and SR366 in the middle of nowhere. Follow Pleasant Valley Rd. to Murrysville, becoming Sardis Rd., which you take to Sardis, also unrecogniz- able. Left on SR286, quickly right on SR380 down a swooping hill, where Jack Neyer’s Masi once tried to take wing, to a BP station on the right, just past “Camp Jo-Ann”. Continue on SR380 a mile or so until Camp Jo-Ann Rd. (carefully left). Soon left on Turkey Ridge Rd., and finish as under the ride by that name [55 miles].

Alpine Park — 35 miles

From SR130 toward the top of the climb to Level Green, turn left down, and then up, Saunders Station Rd. Fork left and follow Saunders Station Rd., turning right off it partway up a climb to go through Alpine Park (on Cavitt Rd.). Left on Abers Rd. Just before SR22, the road takes a left turn up a steep climb (Northern Pike). Follow this up and across Moss Side Blvd. At Rudy’s Subs on the right, hop over the curb and cross US22 Bus. to the continu- ation of Northern Pike into Turtle Creek [35 miles].

New Texas — 40 miles

Begin as under Alpine Park. In Alpine Park, keep right and follow Cavitt Rd. up a hill through a housing development to US22. Cross US22 on what is now McClure Rd., which takes a left at a fork, running into New Texas Rd. (left). Cross US286. New Texas Rd. becomes the Orange Belt at SR380, which you take to Leechburg Rd. at Plum Boro and then leave it to the left. In Unity after the underpass take a left still on Leechburg Rd. up to the intersection with Frankstown Rd. and Saltsburg Rd. Take Saltsburg Rd. back to town via Lincoln Ave. [40 miles].

Bushy Run (***) — 55 miles

Follow SR993 out of Irwin to Harrison City. In Harrison City, turn right with SR993 and follow it left and up a couple of hills to Bushy Run State Park, marking the site of a victory of the British over a 1763 Indian rebel- lion. Well past the park turn left on Baughman Rd., right on Dutch Hollow Rd. past Lux Rd. on the right. Cross Boquet Rd. up a short steep hill on Ader Rd., which changes names to Claridge-Export Rd. as it crosses under US22 into Export. Watch out for the nearly invisible stop-sign at the intersection with Mellon Rd. In Export, follow the road (Pittsburgh St.) left to Murrysville at the same point where the Pleasant Valley and Sardis Rd. rides meet US22. Cross US22, fork right on Meadowbrook Rd., and finish through Level Green (see the end of Sardis Rd.) [55 miles].

Hills Church Rd — 65 miles

Vary and lengthen Bushy Run by turning right on Hills Church Rd. outside Export, running into Kemmerer Hollow and then Hilty Rds., even- tually running into SR286 (left). Return on SR286 and follow the opposite direction of Sardis Rd. [65 miles].

Claridge — 55 miles

A slightly shorter and possibly nicer version of Bushy Run. In Harrison City, take the first left off SR993 (Harrison City-Export Rd.) and follow it out of town. Take the first main right (Watt Rd.) and follow it through Claridge, an example of what is meant by a patch town (old mining town). Keep straight along rolling Dutch Hollow Rd. which eventually loops to the north and then northwest up a short steep climb (Lux Rd.). You are now heading into Murrysville on the end of the Bushy Run ride, [55 miles].

Drop to Jeannette — 45 miles

A nice way to get to Jeannette. Start out as under Bushy Run. Before SR66 go south (right) to Jeannette on various roads: Claridge-Jeannette Rd., Dry Dam Rd., Ridge Rd.-Southerland St.-SR766, all taking you to SR130 (right). Return on SR130 through Turtle Creek and Wilkinsburg [45 miles].

Penn — 45 miles

Similar to Drop to Jeannette, but just past Bushy Run State Park turn right on Chestnut Lane and follow its extensions (Blieburg Rd. across SR130, Richmond La., Kings Rd., Railroad St.) to Penn Ave. in Penn, which is an appendage to the west of Jeannette. Lots of choices from here, the simplest being to turn right on Penn Ave. to Manor, under the underpass, left on Sandy Hill Rd. to SR130 (left), then back through Turtle Creek [45 miles].

Forbes Road (***) — 85 miles

One of the better longer-distance rides around. Follow SR993 out of Trafford through Irwin, Westmoreland City, Harrison City, Bushy Run State Park, all the way until it ends at SR66. Cross SR66, forking first right, then taking the first left (McIlvaine Rd.). At the next T intersection turn right (Salver Rd.), and turn right at the next opportunity (Shutt Rd.). Follow this road to Old Forbes Rd. (left). Take Old Forbes Rd. through the village of Forbes Road to SR819 (left). A very long and pretty stretch of SR819, with many moderate-to- hard climbs, leads across US22, SR286, and SR380. Follow SR819 to its end outside Apollo. Turn briefly right onto SR56-66 Alt. and then left up the hill to Oklahoma (Orr Rd.). Return via Markle-Lower Burrell-New Kensington, as described under Strongland [85 miles].

Salina — 85 miles

We’re not in Kansas anymore. Salina may be the largest settlement in the entire state without any food or convenience store. Follow Forbes Rd. Leave SR819 by going straight to Salina. Take a left across a narrow bridge and into some truly beautiful climbing and scenery. Take the first left and follow the obvious path, on Beaulah Church Rd., right on twisty Brownstown Rd., later Jackson Rd., finally left on Old State Rd. to Apollo. From Apollo, cross the river and return as described under Forbes Rd. [85 miles].

West Leechburg — 95 miles

Like Salina, but go right in Apollo to Leechburg. Cross the river and turn right to West Leechburg about halfway up the hill, and at every intersection keep choosing the uphill alternative all the way over the hill. You will eventually join Piper Rd., which leads up to SR356 (right). Quickly left on Pleasant Hill Rd., and follow this to Melwood Park Rd. Go right and finish as under Spooky Hollow [95 miles].

Slickville — 75 miles

A shorter version of Forbes Rd.. Take SR819 north only as far as Slickville, beyond US22. In Slickville turn left on County Rd.=Slickville Rd. Before reaching SR66 turn right on Thorne Run Rd., taking you to SR66. Jog right on the shoulder and then left on Silvis Rd.. Here follows some attrac- tive scenery: tumble-down farms alternating with ugly new suburban housing. Right on Hilty Rd., left on Bolinger Rd., becoming Evans Rd., right on Christy Rd., left on Mamont Rd. to Sardis Rd., then right to SR286. See Pleasant Valley for the return [75 miles].

Delmont — 70 miles

See Forbes Rd. for the beginning across SR66 and left on McIlvain Rd., right on Sarver Rd.. Instead of turning right on on Shutt Rd., keep straight to a left on Sleepy Hollow Rd., to another left on Beaver Run Rd. to a quick right past a small bridge on Jobes Rd. Left on Wilson Rd., becoming Rock Springs Rd. across SR66. At Old Wm. Penn Hwy. turn left into the attractive town of Delmont, birthplace of Glenn Snyder. Follow Old Wm. Penn Hwy. (Pittsburgh Rd.) to Export, Murrysville, right on Sardis Rd. then quickly left on Logans Ferry Rd. Take the next left and connect with Old Frankstown Rd., Universal Rd., Frankstown Rd [70 miles]. For an equally good, if not better, ride to Delmont, currently featuring a creek fording, see Twin Valley Memorial Park.

Saltsburg — 90 miles

This is not the way you’d go if you commuted to and from Saltsburg. If that’s your aim, then there’s a road called Saltsburg Rd. that runs almost all the way between the two places. On the present ride, from Slickville (see the ride by that name) take the main road (County Rd.) east. This leads into a val- ley, then up on the other side to SR286 in Kiski, just outside Saltsburg (right). Before descending into to Saltsburg (who wanted to see it anyway), turn left on SR981 (long hill) to Salina, then continue as per Salina [90 miles].

Twin Valley Memorial Park — 65 miles

A striking large cemetery complex on the edge of Delmont where the grave markers are vases filled with artificial or cut flowers. Start like Delmont, but go right on Wilson Rd. on what is Boggs Hollow Rd. (neat trailer graveyard on the left), left fork on Sauls Rd. to US22, right to a rest stop at Five Points. Across US22, take Trees Mill Rd. to an unmarked left on Pump (Station) Rd. The sign may say Road Closed or Bridge Washed Out, but it doesn’t mean it. The road becomes Church Rd. as it passes through the “memorial park,” to Delmont (left). Right on Delmont-Manor Rd. past Glenn Snyder’s boyhood home, right on Wilson Rd. to Old US22 (left), all the way to Murrysville. Left on Meadowbrook Rd., and finish through Level Green as under Sardis Rd. A long [65 miles].

Keystone State Park — 90 miles

For me this ride was an excuse to ride through the ancient Egyptian city of Luxor. Go straight through Hannastown (Historic Hannastown), cross Hannastown Rd., and join US119 (left). Quickly right on SR1053. Left at the next opportunity to and through Luxor (SR1026), which is located near Twin Lakes County Park east of Greensburg. Left to Old Crabtree, then right on township roads (they change numbers at every township border and aren’t well marked in any case) to SR981 (left), which runs next to Keystone State Park. Take SR981 north to Saltsburg, and return on Saltsburg Rd. (SR286 to Sardis, SR380 to Frankstown Rd., Saltsburg Rd. to Verona Rd. to Robinson Blvd. to Wilkinsburg [90 miles].

Historic Hannastown — 70 miles

Hannastown was the historic Westmoreland County seat, burned to the ground in 1782 by the British and Indians. Start out as under Forbes Rd. At the intersection of Old Forbes Rd. and SR819, continue straight, to Historic Hannastown (a few restored log buildings). Left (north) and follow the main road (note the striking Albert Steel farmhouse on the left, dated 1900). Carefully cross US22 to Old Wm. Penn Hwy. (left), observing the historic old Congruity Tavern down to the right. In Congruity, Old Wm. Penn Hwy. gives out, so you’ll have to turn right on Congruity Rd. to SR819. You’ll want to turn left on SR819, because there’s a rest stop at Five Points (BP Station) on US22. Finish as under Twin Valley Memorial Park [70 miles].

Blairsville — 100 miles

This ride runs east of my usual territory, but it is interesting. It is also a good way to get to Latrobe. Take Historic Hannastown through Hannastown to US119. Left, then right on SR1053. Follow SR1053 south until SR1026 (left). Ride through Donohoe to Latrobe and SR981 (left). Fork right on SR1020 outside Latrobe, which will T into SR217 (left). Ride through Derry and take SR217 north thrrough Blairsville. The road is flat and fast. Across US22, look for signs to Saltsburg: 12 miles. At one unmarked fork, keep right; otherwise, the road to Saltsburg is well marked. Return to Pittsburgh as described under Keystone State Park [100 miles].

Sutersville (***) — 55 miles

Start out toward Irwin on SR130 and SR993. Before getting to Irwin, turn right just past the metal-spanned bridge. Take the next left up the hill (Skellytown Rd.) and turn right at the top, to US30. Cross US30 and turn left on Clay Pike Rd., later Irwin-Herminie Rd. After several miles, take a right toward Sutersville at Rillton, on Mars Hill Rd. An up-and-down stretch of road leads into the sleepy town of Sutersville. Cross the Youghiogheny River and bear right on Scott Haven Rd., keeping along the main road, eventually ending in a climb. Continue the climb around the golf course (right) and keep right, for a nice winding stretch of several miles through Greenock, Buena Vista, Boston. Cross the Boston Bridge on SR48, becoming SR148 into McKeesport. Take SR148 out of McKeesport, keeping your eyes peeled in a mile or so for a sharp uphill to the left (Westinghouse Ave.). This road leads to East Pittsburgh- McKeesport Blvd., and to a long downhill descent to the top of Braddock Ave., beneath the Westinghouse Bridge on US30. Return to Pittsburgh through Braddock or Wilkinsburg [55 miles].

Youghiogheny River Trail

The last portion of the Rails-to-Trails network has been completed linking McKeesport, Boston, Sutersville, West Newton, Smithton, Perryopolis, and beyond, all the way to Washington D.C. The pavement is firm crushed limestone, and the road is completely flat. It’s nice to incorporate the stretch from Sutersville to Boston into the Sutersville ride. It’s longer, but it takes out all of the climbing. An entrance is just across the river from Sutersville, and it takes you to the Boston-Versailles Bridge at the Orange Belt [60] miles. You can drive to Boston, park, and ride to Sutersville-West Newton-Cedar Creek Park, for an easy 20-40-mile round trip. In McKeesport, enter the trail by crossing the river and veering sharp right off the bridge, and then doing a right hairpin to the road along the river. In a couple of miles, past the Port Vue bridge, the trail begins at the point where the road ends.

Turnpike — 55 miles

Start out as under Sutersville. Instead of turning toward Sutersville on Mars Hill Rd at Rillton, continue toward Herminie. Then follow the signs to Madison. Turn right into Madison and then head left (east) out of town on the only road going that way (SR3016). This road crosses the Turnpike south of Arona. Follow it (Clay Pike) left (north), paralleling the Turnpike back through Arona to Irwin. You will need to finesse a crossing of US30 by riding to the left on US30 for a bit, then turning right off it at the first opportunity. Go toward Irwin and turn right into Irwin and retrace the route back to Pittsburgh on SR993 to Trafford and SR130 to Pitcairn and Turtle Creek [55 miles].

West Newton — 65 miles

A round-about way of getting to West Newton. Start out as per Turnpike, but from Herminie go south (on West Newton Rd.) to SR136. Take SR136 right (west) through West Newton, crossing SR51, down a hill eventu- ally to the Monongahela River (right). When you reach the SR136 bridge, return on one side of the Monongahela or the other - either through McKeesport or Kennywood [65 miles]. The rough reverse of this ride, starting out through McKeesport, along the Monongahela river on what is called the Two Rivers Scenic Highway, is also nice.

Bells Mills — 65 miles

The reverse of West Newton. Ride from McKeesport, Glassport, and Elizabeth to SR136 through West Newton. Follow SR136 out of town. Right at the sign to Bells Mill(s) and over the 104 ft. covered bridge, dated 1850, the only original covered brdge left in Westmoreland county (Allegheny County has none). Follow the road past the Sewickly Presbyterian Church (est. 1776) toward Wyano. Just outside Wyano turn left (north) to Madison. Follow SR136 out of Madison, eventually across the Turnpike at Arona, and return as under Turnpike [65 miles].

West Newton Classic — 65 miles

For me, the classic West Newton ride goes like Bells Mills, but instead of turning there, go a bit farther on SR136 to a left on West Newton- Hermine Rd. to Herminie. See Sunnyside Rd. for the return. Slighly less than [65 miles], or a metric century.

New Stanton — 70 miles

Get to Bells Mills by doing the ride of that name. Take Yukon Rd. north out of town, but quickly turn left and then right on some township roads (T534, T529), then right on and left off Waltz Mill Rd., now on SR3014. Left on T539 into New Stanton. Cross the Turnpike and return as described under Ruffsdale [70 miles]. This is all nice country.

Turner Valley (***) — 55 miles

Roughly equivalent rides would be West Newton, Bells Mills, Lowber, Turnpike, Shaner War Memorial, but this one is judged best. Take Lincoln Way out of McKeesport, as described under Brush Creek Cemetery. Past White Oak Park turn right on Coulterville Rd. to Turner Valley Rd. (a beautiful stretch following the screaming descent, including one major low- gear climb), then Guffey Rd., crossing Mars Hill Rd., ending in Lowber Rd. Left to Herminie. Go into town and take Sewickley Ave. out of town. This will eventually run into SR136 and lead across the Turnpike at Arona. Pass through Arona, i.e. don’t turn left. From SR136, turn left on Edna Rd. to Adamsburg across US30. Left to Straw Pump, then right to Westmoreland City, return- ing on SR993 through Trafford, SR130 through Turtle Creek, Braddock Ave. through Braddock [55 miles].

Brush Creek Cemetery (***) — 40 miles

A good Halloween ride. To get in the mood, take Brinton Rd. out of town by following Maple St. out of Edgewood through Braddock Hills, dropping down to Braddock Ave. by forking right on Ravine St. Left on Braddock Ave. up the hill, right past the Westinghouse Bridge on East Pittsburgh-McKeesport Blvd., forking left past the defunct New Eastland Mall down Westinghouse Ave. to SR48 and the Yellow Belt, which you cross and head unpromisingly up the very steep hill. Curve right on Public Rd. or, for a much better and dirt climb, continue straight. At the top, turn right and zig- zag over to Lincoln Way (left). Continue on Lincoln Way past the Orange Belt (SR48), and take the next left (McClintock Rd.) toward White Oak Park, up a hill. This road, taken straight, becomes Muse Lane and then Carpenter Lane, crosses US30, and becomes Leger Rd. (keep left), more or less the centerpiece of the ride, and later the haunted Old Brush Creek Cemetery, overgrown with daylilies and poison ivy. After a steep and narrow descent, you have the option of turning right over the trestle to Ardara on SR993 (left) and returning through Trafford and Turtle Creek. Instead, be tough, keep straight, and ride up and down some more hills, eventually taking Mahaffey Hill down to SR993 (left to SR130 and back through Turtle Creek and Braddock) [40 miles]. Recent runnings of this ride have gone to Ardara and taken in the end of Haywood Hill.

Lowber — 65 miles

Start out as under Turner Valley Rd. For variety, go as far as you can on Lincoln Way. It’s called Maus Rd. just before it runs into Clay Pike in Norwin. Follow Clay Pike South for a bit, then right on Guffey Rd., which leads into the Turner Valley ride and to Lowber Rd. outside Herminie. Turn right to Lowber instead of left to Herminie. This attractive road leads through Lowber to Gratztown, a point halfway between Sutersville to the right and West Newton to the left. West Newton is the best choice. From West Newton, take SR136 west (right) down (at first, somewhat up) to the Monongahela River, and return to McKeesport on the right of the river. See Sutersville for returns from McKeesport [65 miles].

Arona — 60 miles

This is Eric Schaffer’s version of Lowber. Start out as if on the reverse of Turnpike, to Irwin. From Irwin, take Pennsylvania Ave. to just before US 30. Cross US30 on Black’s Hill Rd. to Wendel Rd. to Arona Rd. (left). Right at Arona across the Turnpike through Herminie and Lowber. Finish as under Lowber [60 miles].

Madison — 65 miles

The same idea as Lowber, but a longer swath to the south. Go one crossing of the Turnpike farther south on Arona Rd. and cross the Turnpike on Youngwood Rd., becoming W. Newton Rd. through Madison, where you join SR136 to West Newton. From West Newton, return through Sutersville, Blythesdale, Buena Vista, Boston, McKeesport [65 miles].

Shaner War Memorial — 55 miles

Where Steve Loevner almost ended up. After the descent after the huge climb under Turner Valley, dog-leg right to Shaner, down to the bottom of a lonesome holler. Left at the war memorial, then straight, bearing right at a fork to Mars Hill Rd. Right and then left at the first opportunity. This leads to a wonderful descent to just outside Lowber. Left to Herminie and fol- low Turner Valley [55 miles].

Adamsburg — 65 miles

Start out like Arona, but follow Pennsylvania Ave. from Irwin far- ther, to where it becomes Main St. in Adamsburg. Right on Penn-Adamsburg Rd. across US30 to Edna Rd. Head South to SR136 (right). Right on Cribb Station Rd. to Middletown Rd. (right), becoming Youngwood Rd., following it across the Turnpike. where it becomes West Newton Rd. (which, if you want, will take you to West Newton). Instead, in Madison, take Madison Rd. (right) to Herminie and join the Lowber ride [65 miles]. You may want to try sometime Monkey Wrench Rd, or Senchur Rds. to the right off Edna Rd., both good climbs which take you over to Arona Rd.

Latrobe — 100 miles

From Dan Chew, who knows roads better than anyone, and who specializes in rides south and east of Greensburg. Get to Arona and go south on Arona Rd. Outside New Stanton go left on Center Ave., later right on Hills St. through Youngwood, leading to Armbrust. Take Brinkerton Rd. to United. Right on SR981, then quickly left on Country Rd.=Mammoth Rd. to Mammoth. From Mammoth, take SR982 through Weltytown and past Lycippus to Youngstown. Left on Mission Rd. across US30 to SR981 (right). Left on Monastery Dr. past St. Vincent’s College. Monastery Dr. forks right. Keep on it to a left on Unity Cemetery Rd., then left on St. Vincents Grove Rd., right on Beatty Flats Rd.., becoming Buffmeyer Rd., left on Donohoe Rd., right on Possum Hollow Rd.=Twin Lakes Rd., left on Luxor Rd., becoming McWilliams Rd. Right on Georges Sta. Rd., left on (a different) Luxor Rd. to Luxor, right on Cameo Ln. to US119. Left and then quickly right on Forbes Rd. through Historic Hannastown, which ride you trace in reverse back through Bushy Run on SR993 to SR130, Pitcairn, and Turtle Creek [85 miles]. Bear in mind that these are Danny Chew miles. For me the ride came out to over [100] miles.

Chestnut Ridge — 100 miles

Adds major climbing to Latrobe. After Lycippus turn right on (Eidemiller) Quarry Rd. and, after an initial downhill, start climbing Chestnut Ridge. Toward the summit, Quarry Rd. becomes Armell Hollow Rd. Right on Bethel Church Rd. Left on Bethel-Darlington Rd.=Four Mile Rd., which then forks left from Jefferson School Rd. Left on Binkey Rd. and stay on it. It becomes Solomon Temple Rd., then Mansville Rd., then Ridge Ave. down to Youngstown on SR982. For conclusion, follow Latrobe [100 Danny Chew miles].

State Route 130

SR130 goes from Braddock through Jeannette and Greensburg, and ends at SR381 near the Turnpike past Donegal. It is rideable the entire distance, but there is moderately heavy traffic most of the way. Outside Greensburg the road becomes more rural. Beyond Lycippus to the end near Donegal, it becomes a downright attractive, wooded country and mountain road.

Rust Belt (Mon Valley) (***) — 35 miles

After the Rankin Bridge, go left on Kennywood Blvd. Ride past Kennywood Park on SR837 to the McKeesport Bridge, cross it, turn right into McKeesport, and ride to Elizabeth (see Tour of the Mon). Right over the Elizabeth Bridge (SR51) and back north on SR837 [35 miles]. This basic ride has at its disposal a number of different bridges, giving rides of varying length, all the way to 100: the Glassport, Dravosburg, Elizabeth, Donora, Monessen, and Brownsville Bridges are the most important. The architectural capital of the Rust-Belt is Monessen, which still has some inactive steel mills standing.

Mon Valley Century — 105 miles

This ride incorporates the rolling 70-mile loop of the Mon Valley Century ride held in the late summer. Add to that the 30+ miles that it takes to get to and from Elizabeth, and you have more than a century. Follow Rust Belt to Elizabeth, and continue south next to the Monongahela River through Bunola, Elkhorn, and East Monongahela, to the bridge at SR136. Cross to Monongahela, right and then soon left on Park Ave. (SR481), but soon bear right on SR2023, which eventually is marked as Bentleyville Rd. Cross under the awful Mon Valley Expressway, through Hazelkirk, Cracker Jack, and Sudan. Go right on SR2044 just short of I70, and follow this (right) into Bentleyville. Bear left on SR2041 up a mile-long hill, and follow SR2041 (with giant paw-prints painted on the pavement, symbol of a local high school) a number of miles through Beallsville to a steep downhill and a left at Clarksville along Ten Mile Run into SR88 (left). After a few miles veer right off SR88 onto Old SR88, keeping close to the river, to the historic bridge to Brownsville (it is supposedly the first cast-iron bridge ever built). Right over the bridge to Brownsville and left on SR4003. The hill out of Brownsville is a whopper. Left on SR201 through Fayette City, then left on SR906 through Monessen (“Essen on the Mon”). Meet SR136 and follow it along the river to the bridge you’ve already crossed once. Cross it again, turn right, and follow SR837 back into Pittsburgh via Kennywood and Homestead. Something like [105 miles].

Pigeon Creek — 75 miles

This ride combines elements of various other rides, but it has its own logic. Begin as under Mon Valley Century. It turns out Bentleyville Rd. goes along Pigeon Creek, hence the name given it by Eric Schaffer. Toward Bentleyville, turn right on SR519 (Pittsburgh Rd.) to a crossing with I70. Left on Carlton Rd., a long frontage along I70. Don’t be tempted to turn right up many promising-looking roads: most dead-end into SR136 along one of its worst stretches. Eventually right (north) on Brownlee Rd., cross SR136, later right on Thomas-84 Rd., becoming Linden Rd. (bear right). In Thomas, go left on Thomas Rd. to McMurray Rd. (right). Right on Bethel Church Rd. to SR88 (left). In Castle Shannon go left on Castle Shannon Blvd., becoming Scott Rd. Right on West Liberty Ave, (US19). Right on Saw Mill Run Blvd. and soon left on Bausman St. and follow it to the top. Turn left on Brownsville Rd. to S.18th St. and a descent into the South Side and Carson St. Return over the Hot Metal Bridge [75 miles].

State Route 837

This road, listed as a default return route on many rides ending up south of Pittsburgh and east of the Monongahela River, is narrow and, during the week, trafficky, and uninspiring, as it passes much of the Mon Valley’s rusting industrial heritage. For variety, from Dravosburg you can get on Skyline Drive or Pennsylvania Ave. (right), leading to Homeville Rd. (left), then Commonwealth Ave. (right), which deposits you back on SR837 in Duquesne near Kennywood. Or turn left on Commonwealth Ave. to Homestead-Duquesne Rd. (right), which becomes Ravine St. and leaves you on SR837 in Homestead. Or, from Clairton/Coal Valley, take New England Rd. up to the Century III Mall, cross SR885 to Reigs Ave. (right) to Lebanon Church Rd. (right), left on Delwar Rd. to Streets Run Rd. and the Glenwood Bridge. The problem is: by the time a ride gets to SR837, one is usually too tired to think about anything else.

Clairton Missile — 45 miles

Take SR837 To Clairton, just short of the bridge to Elizabeth. Take St. Claire Ave. uphill to 7th St. or Desidero Ave. (left to war memorial and missile monument). Take Woodland Ave. out of town, becoming Ridge Rd., which crosses SR51 and eventually ends at Gill Hall Rd. (right). See Gill Hall for completion [45 miles].

Mingo Creek (***) — 65 miles

There are many ways to connect with picturesque Mingo Creek Rd. in Mingo Creek State Park south of Finleyville (two original covered bridges, so it must be Washington County). Here is the ride from the Rankin Bridge. The first third of the ride is like Tour of the Mon., through Elizabeth. As there, cross the river on SR136 to Monongahela and head north on SR88/837, through New Eagle. North of Monongahela, take SR88 to the left. In a couple of miles, turn left to Mingo Creek State Park. Follow Mingo Creek Rd. through the park to Sugar Run Rd. (right), which leads up and down to Venetia Rd. west of Finleyville. Right through Finleyville. In Gastonville, make a left down a short hill and under a viaduct. This road, after a couple of hills, becomes Gill Hall Rd. Finish the ride as under Gill Hall [65 miles]. Mingo Creek can also be approached through the South Hills, on McMurray Rd., Thomas Rd., left on Finleyville Rd., right on Sugar Run Rd. Picturesque Mingo Creek Rd.

Tour of the Mon (***) — 65 miles

A popular version of Rust Belt, almost totally flat. Take the bridge from SR837 into McKeesport and go right, into town. Join the Yellow Belt in McKeesport and follow it to where it goes right over the Dravosburg Bridge (don’t take the bridge). On to Glassport, Elizabeth, and farther, along the Two Rivers Scenic Highway, crossing the river to Monongahela (on SR136). Return along the other side of the river on SR837 to the the Rankin or Homestead High Level Bridge [55 miles]. Extend the ride by not crossing the bridge at SR136. Instead, take SR136 farther, and then SR906, to Monessen, where there is a bridge with a wide bike lane over to Donora and SR837 [65 miles]. The ultimate extension of this ride is California.

Cracker Jack — 80 miles

This ride includes some seldom-seen parts of Washington County. Take Tour of the Mon to Webster. Cross the metal-grate bridge (ride on the sidewalk) to Donora, and turn left (south) on SR837 (a really long uphill) and take it to its end in SR88. Turn left toward Charleroi, but go right on the road before the descent into town (Coyle-Curtin Rd.). Take this to SR481, turn left, and follow SR481 to just short of I70. Turn right, following the bumpy frontage road until it levels out and curves back toward the north, through Van Voorhis, Sudan, and Cracker Jack. In Cracker Jack, take a hairpin turn to the left, onto Cracker Jack Rd., and follow this north, to Ginger Hill on SR136. Go left for just a bit, and turn down Mansion (Hill) Rd. to Mingo Creek Park (left). Keep to the right on the park roads, heading north to Little Mingo Creek Rd. Left, then right on Sugar Run Rd. to Venetia Rd., then right on Bebout Rd. Return as per the reverse of Finleyville [80 miles].

Eighty-Four — 100 miles

The lumber company is named after the town, not vice versa. Start out like Cracker Jack. In Van Voorhis, before the post office, turn left on Old Mine Rd. (unmarked) as far as SR917 which, taken to the left, will lead to I70 (a bit of climbing). Turn right on the frontage road (Carlton Rd.), follow it as it becomes Lively Rd. and leads to SR519. Go north through Eighty-Four, leaving SR519 as it turn west, on Thomas & Eighty-Four Rd. Right on Linden (=Venetia) Rd., left on Bower Hill Rd., left on Bebout Rd., right on McMurray Rd. to the Orange Belt. Right on South Park Rd., then left on Baptist Rd., to Brownsville Rd. (left). If traffic is light, follow the Blue Belt to the right down Becks Run Rd. to Carson St (left to the Birmingham Bridge). If not, then fol- low Brownsville Rd. till it joins 18th St. down to W. Carson St. (right to the Birmingham Bridge) [100 miles].

Liberty — 55 miles

Ruud van Dijk liked this ride so much he did it twice the week after he first learned it. Best to get or print out a map of the Mon-Yough Area. From McKeesport, take SR148 south out of town, then turn right over the Liberty- Port Vue Bridge. Fork left through Liberty Boro on Liberty Way, merging with Lovedale Rd. and Portvue Rd. Right on Harrison Hollow Rd. Briefly right on (another) Lovedale Rd., quickly left on Jacktown Rd., merging left with Mill Hill Rd. Left on Scenery Drive, right on Fallen Timber Rd., right on exciting Nichols Hill Rd., merging left with Douglas Run Rd. into Sutersville and across the Youghiogheny River. Take Mars Hill Rd. out of Sutersville into Rillton, return on Clay Pike Rd. to Norwin, keep to the left of US30 on what ends up being Lincoln Way, passing through White Oak. Right on the Yellow Belt to a left on Westinghouse Ave., merging with Pittsburgh-McKeesport Blvd. back through Braddock [55 miles]. There are some wilder ways of coming back from Sutersville through Sewickley Twp. which I’ll have to show Ruud someday.

Forward Township

Forward Township, an appendage on Allegheny County, occu- pies area to the south of Elizabeth. It is bounded by a loop of the Monongahela River to the west. Head for Elizabeth and, not far south of town, take Pangburn Hollow Rd. to the left. This very gradual climb turns out to be a shortcut over to SR136. Where it crosses River Hill Rd., according to Steve Loevner you are close to the...

Highest Point in Allegheny County — 65 miles

at a measely 1401 ft. At one point you will need to jog left and right to Sunnyside Rd. Descend to SR136 (left), and in a mile or to climb Kelly Hollow Rd. to Miracle Ridge Rd. (right). Jog right and left on Monitor Rd., across SR51 to Round Hill Rd. to Douglas Run Rd. (right). Left on very steep Forest Hill Rd., becoming Smithdale Rd., Margaret St., and Coal Hollow Rd. to SR136 (left). Once in West Newton, you can return through Boston-Versailles on the Youghiogheny River Trail [65 miles].

Elizabeth Loop — 45 miles

Go through Elizabeth and take Pangburn Hollow Rd. (see Forward Township) to the end and go left on pretty Williamsport Rd., which will take you over an up-and-down road back into Elizabeth. Cross the Elizabeth Bridge and return through Duquesne on SR837 [45 miles].

The Land That Time Forgot — 55 miles

The whole Forward area is traversed by narrow, hilly, traffic-free roads, which should be explored when you have some time. At Bunola, turn up Bunola Run Rd. Right on Kelley Run Rd., left on Lytle Rd., becoming Wm. Penn Rd. across Pangburn Hollow Rd. and then Finleyville Wall Rd. across Williamsport Rd. Turn right for a bit on Roberts Hollow Rd. to a left on Guffey Rd. Carefully cross SR51 and turn left to State Rd.=Pine View Dr. (right). Left on Long Hollow Rd., becoming Douglas Run Rd. into Sutersville. Return on the trail through Boston-Versailles [55 miles].

Sunnyside Rd — 65 miles

The best ghost road I know is the one off SR136 past the bridge over the Mon. Left on Sunnyside Hollow Rd. then quickly right on what was once Sunnyside Rd, turning into Miracle Ridge Rd. over the top. At present it is about 1-2 feet of pavement climbing through vines and moss and over logs for a mile or more. At Torrence Rd. jog right and left on Mentor Rd. Bear right at the intersection with SR51, across which the road becomes Round Hill Rd., a nice long downhill. Left at Douglas Rd. to Sutersville. Get on the Youghiogheny Trail to West Newton. Cross the bridge (left) and head out of town north on 2nd St., becoming a hill, possibly Steiner Rd. Past the hill, turn left on Apples Mill Rd., taking you through some nice territory. Left on Taylor Rd. to West Newton-Herminie Rd. (left) into Herminie. Right-left-right to “downtown” Herminie. Take Sewickly Ave. through Herminie to a left past the Dollar Store at the VFW sign. Right on Station St., left up a short uphill to Limerick Rd., becoming Limerick Rd. Ext., left on Wallace Rd., right on Paintertown Rd. (none of these roads are marked), becoming Turkey Farm Rd. Left on Hahntown-Wendell Rd., which you follow to the end. Right into Irwin, right on Pennsylvania Ave., left on Main St. to a connection with SR993 back to Trafford and return through Turtle Creek [65] miles.

Manown Hollow — 45 miles

More good Forward Township riding. Ride through Elizabeth and take Manown Hollow Rd. (left), becoming Williamsport Rd., back to Elizabeth. Manown Hollow Rd. goes left at Manown off SR136 opposite Papp’s Bar, and it’s quite a climb [45 miles]

California — 100 miles

This is the practical limit of the Monongahela River option. Keep going down the river on the Elizabeth side, passing through Monessen and Belle Vernon on SR136, SR906, SR201, beyond Fayette City following the sign to Brownsville, where you will find your first serious climbing, followed by a sharp descent into Brownsville, a place that time forgot.There are two bridges in Brownsville; take the little one. A pretty Greek Orthodox church is on the other side of the river. Take SR88 to California, then north through Elco. Your last, pretty tough, climbing of any note comes out of Charleroi. At the top, past Coyle-Curtin Rd., you will discover where SR837 begins. A swooping descent on SR837 to Donora, then Monongahela. If you want, you can cut a little short by keeping on SR88 to Monongahela. From there, take SR837 back to Pittsburgh [100 miles].

Smithton — 75 miles

I find myself riding to Smithton, site of a historically significant brew- ery, a couple times a year. As under the foregoing rides, follow the road along the Monongahela River out of McKeesport, through Glassport, Elizabeth, Bunola. Continue past SR136, joining SR201. At the edge of Monessen, just after crossing under I70, turn left up Tyrol Pass which, despite its name, is an easy way over the hill. In N. Belle Vernon, turn right on SR201 and then left at the first stop light, on Ridge Rd., later becoming Fleming Rd., parallel- ing I70. Keep going east until SR51. Right and then left, at the beginning of SR981. Take this road (read the historical marker commemorating the horren- dous 1907 Darr Mine disaster) across the Youghiogheny River into Smithton, where I usually stop for a break. After the break, recross the bridge and join the bike trail back through West Newton, Sutersville, and Boston. Return through McKeesport [75 miles].

Smithton Motordrome — 75 miles

Like the foregoing, but ride through Smithton and take a left on SR981, leaving it to the left at the edge of town, going north to a cross- ing with I70. Bear right, following the signs to the Motordrome Speedway. If you are lucky, no one will be guarding it, and you can take a turn around the half-mile paved race-car track. Then continue north along the same road (Turkeytown Rd.) to SR31. Left to West Newton and grab the Youghiogheny Trail to Boston. Ride across the bridge to North Versailles and follow the road to McKeesport. Take East Pittsburgh-McKeesport Blvd. to a left back through Braddock [75 miles].

SR981 — 110 miles

An all-day excursion, and one of the longer rides listed here. Get to Smithton (see the ride by that name). Take SR981 east from Smithton. The longest hills you’ll encounter are just outside town. Except for them, SR981 is a long pretty road through farming country that goes through Mount Pleasant, Latrobe, New Alexandria, Saltsburg, and ends eventually in the dusty town of Salina. See under Forbes Rd. or Salina for how to get back [110 miles].

National Pike — 100 miles

Get to Brownsville and cross the river (see California), following the signs to US40, the National Pike, one of the first major east-west roads in the U.S., not to be confused with US30=Lincoln Hwy. This road has a crummy shoulder, but it is of historical interest. The stone mileage markers are of note, as is a 200-year-old tavern, still in operation. Along the way there is a sign on the Van Voorhis summit saying 1455 ft. above sea level, big deal. Six miles short of Washington turn north on SR519 and finish as under Eighty-Four [100 miles]. The Old National Pike is much nicer between Washington and Wheeling, WV, but that is outside our riding territory.

State Route 136

This secondary artery, busy but in places, runs east and west between Washington, Monongahela, Greensburg. On a week-day SR136 between Washington and Monongahela is heavily travelled, especially by trucks and, although there is usually a narrow shoulder, the going is not pleasant. You are probably better off taking different roads, e.g. Mingo Creek Rd. or Venetia Rd., both to the north of SR136, or frontage roads next to I70, to the south.

Perryopolis — 90 miles

A favorite. The town is named for Commodore Perry, hero of the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812, Perryopolis is a pretty, sleepy little town built around a little central brick round-a-bout with many restored historic buildings. Follow Smithton Motordrome to N. Belle Vernon, including turn- ing right on SR201 and then left at the first stop light, paralleling I70 until Rehoboth (Church) Rd. (right), which takes you past a historic church and cemetery. This same road, also known as Perryopolis Rd., will take you to Perryopolis at SR51. Turn briefly right and then veer left on Spruce St., jogging right and left to the old center of town. Going past the log house on the left takes you down over the Youghiogheny river, through a tunnel over a one-lane bridge , worth the ride all by itself. A steep climb follows. At the next road, turn left and ride through the “patch” towns of Banning and Jacobs Creek, followed by a pretty ride along the river to Smithton. Cross the Youghiogheny River and catch the Youghiogheny River Trail on the other side, which will take you to West Newton. You may want to switch to paved roads back through Sutersville, Buena Vista, Boston, North Versailes, and McKeesport. Return through Braddock on East Pittsburgh-McKeesport Blvd. [90 miles].

Fayette City-Perryopolis — 100 miles

Pass through Monessen and Belle Vernon on SR906 to Fayette City on what becomes SR201. Several different roads leave SR201 up over mild climbs to Perryopolis: (1) Cook St. in Fayette City, Navaho Hollow Rd., Hamer Rd., left on Redstone Church Rd., right on Rehoboth Church Rd. (2) Further on, Redstone Church Rd. to Rehoboth Church Rd., or (3) Cope Rd., becoming Barney(s) Rd. These alternates to Perryopolis stretch the ride from [95–100 miles].

Glass Run Rd. and Becks Run Rd.

These are both possible ways out of town, but they eventually lead either to Brownsville Rd. or West Liberty Ave., so usually the Streets Run Rd. way described above, or the Carson St. exit from town (see below), are preferable. Becks Run Rd. (the Blue Belt) is usually heavily traveled, so Glass Run Rd. and Churchview Ave. are slightly better ways of getting to the Blue Belt. Glass Run Rd. leads into Baldwin. Turn right at Churchview Ave. over to the Blue Belt. Follow the Blue Belt to Liberty Ave. and rides departing that way (see under Carson Street). These may have been good cycling roads thirty or forty years ago.

Tour of the South Hills — 35 miles

From Streets Run Rd. go right on Schuette Rd., running into Willet Rd. (geodesic dome house on the left). Left on Churchview Ave., hard left on Brownsville Rd. Where Brownsville Rd. goes left after the South Hills Country Club, go straight, joining Baptist Rd. Take this all the way to South Park Rd. as it crosses SR88. Take South Park Rd. to McMurray Rd. (right). Cross US19 and it becomes McLaughlin Run Rd. Right on Painters Run Connecting Rd., then a hard left on Painters Run Rd., right on Bower Hill Rd. Take Bower Hill Rd. into Mt. Lebanon. Left on US19 Truck (Washington Rd.) into Dormont. Right at the Blue Belt to Pioneer Ave., and take this to the bot- tom at the entrance to the Liberty Tubes. Right on Sawmill Run Blvd., then left at the first light (Bausman St.). Take this up the back of Mt. Washington (actu- ally, Mt. Oliver here) to Arlington Ave., Left down a screaming descent to 18th St. on the South Side. Return on Carson St. (right) to the Birmingham Bridge into Oakland [35 miles]. Something to do when you are without ideas.

Wabash Tunnel

The recently opened, and soon-to-be-closed Wabash Tunnel, cutting through the South Side hill to Woodruff St., is closed on weekdays to one-way car traffic, which way depending on the time of day. On a Sunday, when traffic is low, it’s open in both directions. Do it in a group and, to be safe, use a car as a back-up. It’s about a mile of slightly uphill grade. Left on Woodruff Ave., left to Saw Mill Run Blvd., then left to Crane Ave. (right) or, farther, to West Liberty Ave. (right).

Plum Run RD

Here is a Wabash Tunnel ride, voted the best new ride of 2006. It’s somewhat like Perry Como Statue done in reverse. Take the Wabash Tunnel to Sawmill Run Blvd. (left), right on US19 all the way through Mt. Lebanon (on Washington Rd.) to W. McMurray Rd. to Canonsburg to Houston (on Pike St.). Right on N. Main St. out of town, bearing left on Plum Run Rd. At one point you’ll need to take a sharp left to keep on Plum Run Rd. (instead of right on Brigich Rd.). Plum Run. Rd. eventually becomes Kelso Rd. Left on Swihart Rd., becoming Vincenty Rd. across SR980, then Cumer Rd., soon left on CowdenRd. to Millers Run Run (SR50) just outside Cecil (right. Return as the reverse of Millers Run Rd. through Carnegie [65 miles]. A slight variation is to go left on Johnston Rd, where Plum Run Rd. becomes Kelso Rd. to Hornhead Rd. (right) to Miller’s Run Rd.

West End Bridge

More and more, for rides going west I find myself using the West End Bridge on week-days as a less trafficky alternative to Carson St. Traffic on the bridge in the morning is light in the outbound direction, and in the inbound direction in the evening, which works out well. Approach or get off the bridge on North Shore Ave., near the Carnegie Science Center. Connect with downtown over the Fort Duquesne Bridge pedestrian walk, and with Oakland via the Jail Trail.

West End Overlook — 25 miles

A winter’s mountain bike ride. Ride over the West End Bridge into the West End (formerly Temperanceville) onto Steuben St. Right on Chartiers Ave., following the sign to the West End Overlook. Right on Lorenz Ave. up to the overlook. Look over the overlook. Back down to Chartiers Ave. (right) to Corliss St. (right). Right at the Corliss Tunnel on SR51, becoming Carson St. In the South Side, turn right on 10th St. to McArdle Roadway, which you take to the top of Mt. Washington. Right on Grandview Ave and fol- low the signs to the West End Circle, taking you down Mayview Ave. Around the West End Circle back onto Steuben St. Left on Wabash St. to Woodville St. Left at so-called Minotte Sq. on what is actually Shaler St., for a very steep climb back up to Mt. Washington. Right on Grandview Ave., left on McArdle Rdwy., left across the Fort Pitt Bridge, and catch the Jail Trail back to Oakland [25 miles].

Arlington Ave — 20 miles

A Southside favorite of Glenn Snyder, this ride is usually done on mountain bikes in the dead of winter. Get to Brownshill Rd. leading over the Homestead High-Level (Pittsburgh Grays) Bridge, and quickly turn right on Imogene St., becoming Johnston Ave. as it comes down onto Hazelwood Ave. Right on 2nd Ave., then left under the underpass under the Parkway East, left on the Hot Metal Bridge. Right to 27th St. left to Josephine St., and left up the hill which becomes Arlington Ave. toward the top. Over the top, turn right on Patrick St. to 18th St. (right). By the river get on the Southside Trail and take it to the Hot Metal Bridge. Return on 2nd Ave. to Greenfield Ave. Turn steep right up at the first opportunity and struggle up the long hill past the Calvary Cemetery, passing Ed Gelman’s boyhood home toward the top [15-20 miles].

Mt. Washington — 15 miles

A touristy sort of ride. Take Carson St. to a left near the 10th St. Bridge to McArdle Roadway (right), and ride up Mt. Washington to Grandview Ave. (sharp left), with several lookout points over the city. Right on Shiloh, left to Wyoming Ave. (right). Take the next left, which will lead you around to Beltzhoozer Ave. Left on Warrington Ave., right on Arlington Ave., which can be followed to a left turn back down Josephine St. at the end. Turn right to Carson St. and look for the Birmingham Bridge into Oakland [15 miles].

Greenleaf Ave. Hill — 10 miles

This is also a ride in search of a hill, with a nice view of the city. Go on Carson St. to the West End circle, and circle around to the left to Greenleaf Ave. Go up this imposing hill, especially steep at the bottom. Left at the top over to Grandview Ave. (this is the view part of the ride), eventually left down McArdle Roadway to Carson St. [10 miles].

Mayview Mental Hospital — 40 miles

As Eric Schaffer says, you’d have to be crazy to go there. Here is the simplest and shortest route. Take the Wabash Tunnel (only on a Sunday, after signing a liability release) to Woodruff Ave. and Saw Mill Run Blvd. (left) to West Liberty Ave. (right), becoming Washington Rd. in Mt. Lebanon. Right on Bower Hill Rd.to Washington Pike in Bridgeville (left). Left on Bank St. Ext., becoming Bank St. and, out of town, Mayview Ave., which you take past the hospital. This stretch of Mayview Ave. is dangerous in rut- ting season, whether deer or turkey. Right up Boyce Rd., jogging right on the Washington Pike and then left on Alpine Ave., all the way across SR50 and the footbridge over to Millers Run (right) Follow Millers Run back to SR50 (left) through Heidelberg, Carnegie, up and over Noblestown Rd. into the West End. Right on SR51, becoming Carson St. You know your way home from here [40 miles]. Eric runs a hillier and longer version of this ride, which he would be glad to describe.

Venetia — 50 miles

Take Washington Rd. to McMurray Rd. Right as far as Bebout Rd. Left on Bebout Rd. to Venetia Rd. Or follow McMurray Rd. past Bebout Rd. It joins Thomas Rd., which curves east and becomes Venetia Rd. Ride east on Venetia Rd. to Finleyville, joining the theoretical Orange Belt (not marked as such), i.e. SR88 south to Elrama, SR837 and return. Or return as per the reverse of Gill Hall [50 miles].

Bridgeville — 40 miles

The designation is arbitrary, since many rides go through Bridgeville. Depart town as under Mayview. From Washington Rd. in Mt. Lebanon, take Bower Hill Rd. right, left on Kelso to Painters Run Rd. Briefly right, then a sharp left on McMillan Rd., crossing the Orange Belt (McLaughlin Rd.) to Lesnett Rd., which winds around to Mayview Rd. (left). Just past the mental hospital, turn right on Boyce Rd. to Washington Pike outside Bridgeville (right). In Bridgeville, take the Orange Belt (Priestley Rd.) left out of town, over a hill, down to Presto-Sygan Rd. (right). Take this road, eventually Thoms Run Rd., to SR50 (left). Return through Carnegie on Noblestown Rd. [40 miles].

Nottingham Twp.

To the south of Peters Township and Venetia Rd. is Nottingham Township, with excellent riding in the spirit of Mingo Creek. People who live down here are lucky, and they will know the roads better than I do and can give better advice. The Mingo Creek spring road race parks at Mingo Creek State Park and follows the clockwise course: Sugar Run Rd., Sundust Rd., Green Valley Rd., Gilkeson Rd., Patterson Rd., Valley Veiw Rd., a five mile loop.

Montour Trail

The Montour Trail is a projected 47-mile bicycle trail built on the former road-bed of the Montour Railroad, many sections of which are already complete. It begins in Coraopolis and will eventualy make a 3/4 arch around Pittsburgh and connect to Clairton. As of his writing, it has not been completely repaired after the floods of 2004. Its most interesting feature is the 960-foot trestle at McDonald, where it goes across the Panhandle Trail, which will eventually connect to Weirton, WV. For other major trails, see under Armstrong Trail, Youghiogheny Trail, Butler-Freeport Trail, Panhandle Trail. The national web-site of the Rails-to-Trails (RTC) Conservancy is located at www.railtrails.org.

Washington Pike

A ride whose main point is to avoid the Washington Pike, not as good as it used to be, especially during the week, due to increased popula- tion toward the south, and also to avoid some other main roads. Start out as under Venetia. Continue on McMurray Rd., forking right at E. McMurray Rd. past Bebout Rd. and Valley Brook Rd. Take this to W. McMurray Rd. and follow to the Washington Pike (=Morganza Rd. at this point), just short of I79 at Morganza and Murry Hill. Travel north (right) on the Washington Pike (Morganza Rd.), and take one of the following options: Old railroad tunnel on the Montour trail outside Coraopolis.

Avoiding Washington Pike

At Hendersonville turn right on Hahn Rd., next left on Cecil-Hendersonville Rd., right on Baker Rd. in front of a well-groomed farm, left on Mayview Rd., which leads past the state mental institution by that name. In Bridgeville, the Pike becomes SR50 and can be followed back into Carnegie and the South Side. But, better, go right in Bridgeville on the Orange Belt to Bower Hill Rd. (turn quickly left off the Orange Belt), which takes you to W. Liberty Ave.

Avoiding Bower Hill Rd

Scrubgrass Rd. parallels much of Bower Hill Rd. to the left, and is nicer. Turn left on Vanadium Ave., right toward the bottom of the hill, then later fork right. At the top, get over to US19 Trk. = West Liberty Ave. (this is not US19 = Banksville Rd., which is not congenial to bicycles).

Avoiding West Liberty Ave

Pioneer Ave. (turn right at the Blue Belt, then leave it) parallels W. Liberty Ave., rejoining it at Saw Mill Run Blvd., and can be used as a detour around busier parts of W. Liberty Ave. Before the Liberty Tubes at the end of West Liberty Ave., turn right on Saw Mill Run Blvd., then left in less than a mile at McKinley Park on Bausman St. (follow it around the right turn) up to Brownsville Rd. to 18th St. to Carson St.

Avoiding Carson St — 55 miles

Turn right from Brownsville Rd. on Arlington Ave. to Josephine St. and circle back to 20th St. and the Birmingham Bridge to Oakland [55 miles].

Liberty Tube

It’s possibly not legal, but on a quiet Sunday morning and in a group, it is possible, even if rather dark and scary, to go fast through the Liberty Tubes in the Pittsburgh direction. There is usually a tailwind, which shoots you through the tube like a bullet, and the road is slightly downhill. Cars like to honk at you, creating an ear-splitting din. Don’t try this unless you are in a group (for motorists’ visibility) and be able to maintain a good 30-35 mph speed for the length of the tube. And don’t try this in the opposite direction. In fact, forget I mentioned this whole idea.

Interstate 70 Frontage — 100 miles

Start out as under Venetia via Thomas Rd. In Thomas, turn right on Linden Rd. and then soon left on a connecting road to Green Valley Rd. Left on Sundust Rd., which will cross Mingo Creek Rd. (another way to hook up with Mingo Creek, by the way). Continue south; right on Church Rd. and then left on the frontage road to I70 (Carlton Rd.). Frontage roads of varying quality parallel I70 all the way to the Monongahela River at Charleroi, then take SR88 and SR837 for a long ride back north [100 miles]. All of this territory is nice, up and down, and largely unspoiled by development (as of this moment).

Millers Run (***) — 45 miles

Often ridden as a fall foliage ride, when one isn’t interested in going too far. Take SR50 (Washington Pike) out of Carnegie south. Right on the Orange Belt (signed Thoms Run Rd.), leaving it by going straight on Presto- Sygan Rd., leading to Millers Run Rd. (bear right). There are various ways to turn north (right). For example, turn right on Sygan Hill Rd., Oakridge Rd., Old Oakdale Rd., Oakdale Rd. (SR978), Cecil-Sturgeon Rd., Reissing Rd. (maybe the best choice), SR980, or Crawford Rd. All of these ways with a little finagling link with Noblestown Rd. (right) back to Carnegie and return [45 miles].

North Branch Rd — 55 miles

Extends Millers Run. Go north from Millers Run Rd. on Reissing Rd., a nice rolling ride over to McDonald, joining SR980 into town. Cross Noblestown Rd. and head north on Valley St. to North Branch Rd. (right), a five-mile stretch of slightly downhill and with-the-wind riding. Follow SR978 right, becoming for a stretch the Orange Belt, into Oakdale, then left and return through Carnegie on Noblestown Rd. [55 miles].

North Branch Rd — 50 miles

can also be joined from the north, say through Imperial, taking Santiago Rd. to Boggs Rd. to SR980 (left, south). Left on Patts Rd., which runs into North Branch Rd. (left) [50 miles].

Cherry Valley — 65 miles

An excellent longer variation on Millers Run. Miller’s Run Rd. eventually joins SR50 and passes through the fabled city of Venice, all the way to Hickory. Right (north) at Hickory, following the signs to Cherry Valley, but don’t go all the way there. Past the reservoir and covered bridge, turn right (SR4016) and follow signs to McDonald. From McDonald, Noblestown Rd. leads you back to Carnegie [65 miles].

Point Pleasant — 70 miles

Follow Cherry Valley from Hickory to and through Cherry Valley, to Joffre. Left in Joffre to a right on Creek Rd., which runs next to Raccoon Creek, to Point Pleasant along the Old Steubenville Pike (right). Return to Pittsburgh, catching SR60 and following it downhill and then up to where it joins SR50 (Noblestown Rd. into the West End [70 miles].

Avella — 85 miles

Near the site of an archaeological dig at one of the oldest Indian settle- ments in North America, now a recreated early village (Meadowcroft), Avella is reached by following the Cherry Valley ride to Hickory and then riding farther on SR50. From Avella, head north-east on Cross Creek Rd. through Studa and Atlasburg. Beyond SR18, the road becomes Cherry Valley Rd. At Racoon- Cherry Rd. go right to Cherry Valley, and follow this road to where it becomes Noblestown Rd. at Midway outside McDonald. Take Noblestown Rd. back into Carnegie and return over the hill as you came. This whole ride is basically flat or slightly rolling [85 miles].

Shades of Death — 95 miles

As long as you are in Avella, you might as well go farther on SR50 to West Virginia, armed with pepper spray for the farm dogs. SR50 merges with SR844, becoming SR27 across the WV border. Turn right down a wild descent on Potrock (Run) Rd. Right on Cross Creek Rd., and follow it right in about a mile (where the pavement ahead gives out), left up Bethel Ridge Rd. back into Pennsylvania, bearing left on Shades of Death Rd. and State Line Rd., right on Eldersville Rd. (neat front-yard Statue of Liberty display on the right), becoming Langeloth Rd., eventually passing through Langeloth Mine and descending into Burgettstown. Left on SR18 to a right on Bridge St. and a quick left on Joffre-Bulger Rd. to Midway, joining Noblestown Rd, through McDonald, Robinson, Oakdale to Carnegie and return [95 miles]

Hickory — 65 miles

An international ride, running through Heidelberg outside Carnegie, Houston just past Canonsburg, and Venice on SR50 past Hickory. Take Washington Rd. and then Pike, later Morganza Rd., south from Carnegie over a series of hills to Canonsburg. Ride through town on Pike St. to adjoining Houston and then head north on SR519 (Western Ave., later Westland Rd.). At Hickory turn right on SR50 and follow Millers Run in reverse back to Carnegie [65 miles].

Fort Cherry — 70 miles

Like Hickory, but in Hickory turn left on Fort Cherry Rd., which will take you to Noblestown Rd. and a return through Carnegie [70 miles].

Washington, PA — 80 miles

If you are in Houston next to Canonsburg (as under Hickory), you are about six miles from Washington, PA via Pike St., so why don’t you pay it a visit. Take SR136 east out of town to Davis School Rd. (left) to Meadowsview Rd. (right), becoming Brehmwood and Linwood Rds., then SR519 (right). Left on Thomas 84 Rd., becoming Linden Rd., left on Thoams Rd. to Peters. North on McMurray Rd., left on Orange Belt, right on Bethel Church Rd., left on Fort Couch Rd., right on Bower Hill Rd., left on Washington Rd. (US19), right on Saw Mill Run Blvd., left on Bausman St. over Mt. Oliver, left on Brownsville Rd. across Arlilngton Ave., down to the South Side on 16th St., right on Carson St., returning by the Birmingham Bridge [80 miles].

Joffre — 65 miles

Get to Carnegie and take West Main St. out of Carnegie, becoming Noblestown Rd. west. Take this through McDonald, Midway, Bulger, to Joffre (where SR4015 comes in from the left, also called Raccoon). Go right (north) and, across the RR tracks, turn left on Kirsops Hill Rd., a long arch over to SR980 (right, then left on Patts Rd., and continue as under North Branch [65 miles].

Pinkerton Rd — 50 miles

Eric Schaffer and I discovered this nice ride one Saturday morn- ing. Take West Main St. as if out of Carnegie, but turn right before the edge of town on Cubbage Rd. Left on Collier Rd., becoming Ewing Rd. at the top as it curves right. Toward the top of a fairly gentle climb, turn right on a small road called Ridge. Left on Cowan Rd. to Baldwin Rd. (right, down a hill). Right on Pinkerton Rd. At the end of Pinkerton Rd., turn left on Old KcKee Rd. to McKee Rd. (left, and in a mile or so right on North Branch Rd. Follow North Branch Rd. to SR980 (right), a 30+mph run down to Noblestown Rd. (left). Back to Carnegie [50 miles].

Reissing Rd — 65 miles

Take Hickory to Canonsburg and out of town on SR980 to a right on Muse-Bishop Rd., becoming Ciaffoni Rd., becoming Glass Hill Rd. Right briefly on SR50 to a left on Grange Rd. (or, a bit farther, on Coleman Rd., also nice). Take Profio Rd. to Reissing Rd. and either right to SR50 or left to McDonald and Noblestown Rd., in either case returning through Carnegie [60–65 miles].

Lone Pine — 105 miles

Take Hickory to Canonsburg and Houston. Take SR519 east and then south through Eighty-Four, across SR136, IS70, and US40 (all different classes of road doing more or less the same east-to-west thing). The logical extension of SR519 across US40, Brush Run Rd., takes you to Lone Pine. Left on Lone Pine Rd., left on Spring Valley Rd. through New Bethlehem and across US40 to Cokeburg. Right on SR917 through Bentleyville. SR917 eventually becomes Ginger Hill Rd. before SR88. Right to SR837 in New Eagle (left). Return on SR837 through Kennywood and across the Rankin Bridge [105 miles].

Cecil — 45 miles

From Bridgeville, take Mayview Rd. south. Right on Baker Rd. and then left on Cecil-Hendersonville Rd., then right across Washington Pike (Morganza Rd.) to Cecil on Henderson-Cecil Rd. to Cecil. Return on Hickory Grade Rd. to Bridgeville, then back on Bower Hill Rd. or alternates (see Washington Pike) [45 miles].

Road to Prosperity — 100 miles

This ride is named after a sign. It never actually gets to Prosperity. It is scenic as only Washington County can be. Take Lone Pine and go south from there on the logical extensions of SR519, called Brush Run Rd., Baker Hill Rd., and Smith Run Rd. Right on Ten Mile Rd. across I79 to US19. Briefly right on US19, then left on Hackney Sta. Rd., becoming Banetown Rd., eventually left on Scenic Drive past some reservoirs to SR18 (right into down- town Washington). Rt. on US40 to Lincoln St. (left), becming Locust Ave. and, across I79, Pike St., which goes through Houston to Canonsburg. Right on Morganza Rd. which becomes Washington Pike. See Washington Pike for ways to return [100 miles].

Raccoon — 75 miles

Start out as under Cherry Valley. Past the Cherry Valley Reservoir, do not turn right back toward Noblestown but keep left to Cherry Valley, then right on SR4015, paralleling Raccoon Creek, to Raccoon=Joffre. Left to Burgettstown. Take SR18 right (north) for a bit, and then right on Bavington Rd. across US22 to Old Steubenville Pike, turn right, and head back to Carnegie as if the reverse of Star Lake [75 miles].

Campbells Run — 45 miles

Campbells Run Rd. leads to many other rides. It is the Yellow Belt leading west out of Carnegie. There’s a lot more traffic on it than there used to be. Reach it either via Rt. 19 to Carnegie or via Steuben St and Baldwin Rd. (see the description of exits on Carson St. above). The Yellow Belt doubles back to the northeast at the point where it joins SR60. The downstretch of SR60 is too busy to be fun. Better to take the Yellow Belt to SR51 outside Coraopolis, left to the Neville Island bridge (right), and return that way, joining SR51 outside McKees Rocks and following it until it becomes Carson St. [45 miles].

Fort Pitt Rd — 35 miles

Take Noblestown Rd. out of Carnegie, and just past the cross- ing of I79 turn right on Noblestown Rd. Ext., then left on Main St., join- ing Fort Pitt Rd., which goes up, up, and up. Roughly the same effect can be achieved by going up Scotts Run Rd., a bit farther along Noblestown Rd. Both end in Baldwin Rd. Go left to Noblestown Rd. and return through Carnegie [35 miles].

Ridge Rd — 35 miles

This particular Ridge Rd. is the continuation across Baldwin Rd. of Fort Pitt Rd. on the ride by that name. Take Ridge Rd. al the way across US22/30 to Campbells Run Rd. (right), and return through Carnegie [35 miles].

Santiago — 55 miles

This ride incorporates Eric Schaffer’s way west, on which many good rides depend. Take Campbell’s Run Rd. (see the ride by that name) to the inter- section with SR60. Go on SR60 just a bit, taking a right into Robinson Town Centre. Go through the center and down the sweeping hill to a left on Montour Run Rd. Follow this back across SR60 and join Cliff Mine Rd., becoming Main St. in Imperial. Take Santiago Rd. south to the Old Steubenville Pike, passing through the ancient city of Tyre (Third Millenium B.C.), and return on that to the Yellow Belt (Campbell’s Run Rd.), which takes you back to Carnegie [55 miles] A slightly longer ride is to go right off Santiago Rd. on Boggs Rd., leading to Potato Garden Run Rd. (left) and the Old Steubenville Pike a bit farther out.

Star Lake — 70 miles

As under Santiago Rd., take Santiago Rd. south out of Imperial, turning right on Boggs Rd., which leads to Potato Garden Run Rd.. Left to US22. Just before US22 turn right on a road paralleling US22 all the way to West Virginia (see Weirton, WV). At Star Lake Amphitheatre (it keeps chang- ing its name, depending on sponsorship), turn south on SR18, a too-busy high- way. Best to turn south earlier, on Bavington Rd. (SR4007) to Burgettstown. Turn left at a stop light on SR18, and left again (on SR4012) to Joffre, Bulger, Midway, McDonald, Sturgeon, Noblestown, Oakdale. Past Oakdale, fork left off Noblestown Rd. (which you joined in McDonald) on Baldwin Rd., right on Ewing Rd. into Carnegie and return [70 miles].

Pittsburgh International — 30 miles

The roundabout way I go to the Airport (say, to pick up a rental car) is to take Campbells Run to US20/30 (left), then exit right on Old Steubenville Pike. Take this to Potato Garden Run Rd. (right). Right on Washington Rd. to Clinton; cross US30 on what is now Moon-Clinton Rd. to SR60, then right to the airport, which will be on your left [30 miles one way]. Lots of different ways to do this.

Nevillewood — 60 miles

Take Campbells Run Rd. to US20/30, and Old Steubenville Pike to SR980 (left, i.e. south). A bit past Beagle Club Rd. go left on Patts Rd., merg- ing with North Branch Rd. (see the ride by that name). Right at SR978 into Oakdale. Cross Noblestown Rd. and go quickly left on Toms Run Rd. Left on Hilltop Rd., passing the disneyesque housing development called Nevillewood, merging with Ridge Rd. and Collier St. before SR50 (left into Carnegie). Take Noblestown Rd. back through the West End [60 miles].

Airport — 50 miles

Same start as under Star Lake. Outside Imperial, at Enlow, turn north on Allegheny Rd., leading to McCaslin Rd., which parallels SR60 near the Pittsburgh International Airport. Left on Clinton Enlow Rd. to Clinton, then out of town to the north on Moon-Clinton Rd. to Flaugherty Run Rd. down to SR51 and return through McKees Rocks and the South Side [50 miles].

Clinton — 60 miles

Start out as under Star Lake, and go as far as Imperial. Take surpris- ingly rideable US30 out of Imperial to Clinton, which has a church with a carillon that plays the Big Ben chimes on the hour. North on Matchette Rd.. and then take your pick of roads leading to the north, back to the Ohio River. Here is one choice: Take Matchette Rd. to Hookstown Grade Rd. Briefly left and then right on Potts Hollow Rd., right on Bethlehem Church Rd., Then either left on Gringo-Clinton Rd. to SR151 (right), and return as under Potato Garden Run. Or right on Gringo Clinton Rd. (changing names to Hicks Rd., Economy Grade Rd., Spring Run Rd.), then left on Flaugherty Run Rd. to SR51 on the Ohio River. Turn right and return through the South Side [60 miles]

Hookstown Grade — 75 miles

Nice rural road. Take SR51 out of Pittsburgh past the Sewickly Bridge. Long, gradually uphill Flaugherty Run Rd. goes to the left just past a hill. After passing Broadhead Rd., from the top of Flaugherty Run Rd. take Hookstown Grade Rd. (right), eventually across Raccoon Creek,. Turn left on Park Rd. Left briefly on US30, then right on the road to Hozak’s Christmas Tree Farm, left on SR18, watching out for coal trucks, to Florence on US22 frontage (left). At Potato Garden Run Rd. jog right and left on Old Steubenville Pike. Keep basically straight, joining SR60 and Steuben St. through the West End and Carson St. [75 miles].

Settlers Cabin — 40 miles

Take Campbells Run Rd. out of Carnegie (see Campbells Run). Cross under US22-30 at Bishops restaurant. Right on Boice Rd., right on Ridge Rd., Left on Greer Rd., left to Noblestown Rd. and return through Carnegie [40 miles].

Motor Speedway — 50 miles

Start out as under Star Lake. From Imperial, go south on Santiago Rd., and stay on it to the Old Steubenville Pike (left); then right on Kelso Rd., passing by the Pennsylvania Motor Speedway, a real rough and tumble place. You can sneak onto the track during the week, but the surface is wavy and hard-packed clay, and no fun to ride. Left on Pattridge Ln., right on Donaldson, becoming Wittengale Rd. across North Branch Rd. All of this is hilly. Left on Noblestown Rd. outside Oakdale. Return through Carnegie and the West End on Noblestown Rd. [50 miles].

Woodville State Hospital — 50 miles

A different way of coming into Carnegie from any ride that puts you on Noblestown Rd., like Motor Speedway. In Oakdale, turn right on the Orange Belt, then quickly left on Thoms Run and Oakdale Rd. Follow this uphill to the end at Thoms Run Rd. Right, then left on Hilltop Rd. past the Woodville State Hospital. Right on Collier St. to the Heidelberg Race Track at SR50 (left into Carnegie) [50 miles].

Potato Garden Run (***) — 65 miles

This is a good ride on which to use the Steuben St. way from Carson St. Take Carson St. to the West End Circle, left on Steuben St., and follow it up the hill and later left, down to SR60. Take SR60 briefly, turning left on Baldwin Rd., which intersects with Campbells Run Rd. (right). At the intersection with SR60 (left), take SR60 until it becomes US22/30. Keep on this for just a bit (ride on the shoulder), until a right exit to Old Steubenville Pike. Follow Old Steubenville Pike to Robinson Rd. just after crossing under US22. Right turn and the road becomes Potato Garden Run Rd., a nice long coun- try road, well paved and not heavily travelled, leading northwest, changing its name across US30 to Bocktown Cork Rd. At SR151 turn right, and follow SR151 to the intersection with Broadhead Rd. Veer slightly left onto (South) Heights Rd., and take this to the Ohio River at SR51 (right). Take this back to Pittsburgh, traversing Neville Island after Coraopolis [65 miles].

Old Steubenville Pike

A lot of the rides in this section can be reached from the Old Steubenville Pike, which is a major backbone going west, with many rides sprouting off in either a north or south direction. The quickest way to join it is to take Carson St. to the West End Circle (left), then take Steuben St. up over the hill to Middletown St. (left) to SR60, then SR60 over the hill to US22. Alternatively, take Noblestown Rd. to Carnegie, then Campbell’s Run Rd. (the Yellow Belt) to SR60, then left to US22. Ride past Robinson Town Center (Towne Centre) and look for the sign to the Old Steubenville Pike, which paralleles US22. You can take the Pike all the way to Weirton, West Virginia (see the ride by that name).

Moon — 50 miles

A planetary ride. Start out like Potato Garden Run From Potato Garden Run Rd., turn right on Washington Rd. to Clinton. Across US30, the road becomes Moon-Clinton Rd., which feeds into Flaughtery Run Rd., which takes you down to SR51. Turn right into Coraopolis, cross over to Neville Island, and come back into the South Side, again on SR51, through McKees Rocks [50 miles].

Mousetrap — 80 miles

An extension to Potato Garden Run. Go farther on the US22 front- age road (Romane Rd.), past Potato Garden Run Rd. toward West Virginia. The Mousetrap is some kind of tavern on the right-hand side of the road, next to Robinson Church Rd. Take this into some fairy-tale pretty country almost completely devoid of traffic, following it past the Robinson church to Washington Rd. (right), left on Hebron Rd., right on Strouss Rd. to Potato Garden Run Rd. (left). Continue as under Potato Garden Run Rd. [80 miles].

Florence — 75 miles

Go past The Mousetrap on the ride by that name on US22 frontage. At Florence turn north (right) a bit on SR18, watching out for fast moving coal trucks, which view you as some species of woodchuck. At Frankfort Springs turn right (east) on Frankfort-Clinton Rd., a pretty rural road taking you to US30 (right), to Clinton. In Clinton turn left on Moon-Clinton Rd., becom- ing Flaugherty Run Rd. past SR60. See Moon for continuation [75 miles]. Or, where Moon-Clinton Rd. encounters SR60 turn right (east) toward the airport and ride on the wide shoulder, peeling off to the left at any of various points, e.g. Thorn Run Rd., Coraopolis & Carnot Rd., or Montour Run Rd.-Clever Rd.- Steubenville Pike, all of them leading toward McKees Rocks [same distance].

Aliquippa — 75 miles

This is not a quick way to get to Aliquippa; it’s just the main land- mark on this extension to Potato Garden Run Rd. Follow that ride to SR151. Left and then right on Independence Rd., keeping right at the first fork. A truly nice stretch of well-paved, lightly travelled road leads eventually to the foot of Green Garden Rd. at the shopping mall by that name, close to SR60. Turn right on Mill Rd. (the main road), becoming Kennedy Blvd. through Aliquippa, then Franklin St. Follow the signs to SR51 south. As it turns out, SR51 along the river can be ridden all the way back to Pittsburgh. If you’re averagely lucky, you’ll have a tailwind all the way. If you want, cross the bridge to Ambridge and come back on that side of the river [75 miles].

Raccoon Creek — 65 miles

You are apt to become so entranced by the beauty of the scenery you will lose track of time and distance. Reclaimed strip mines over much of this area provide a striking landscape. As with the above rides, start out on US22 west. Take the service road next to US22 as far as Raccoon Creek in Bavington (an unmarked village), and turn north on Kramer Rd., sometimes called Raccoon Creek Rd. The road is easy to miss, because it departs at an angle down through trees and looks like someone’s driveway. The roads are tar-and-chip, but rideable. Stay parallel to the creek on Raccoon Creek Rd. Near Murdocksville there is a spot where three counties—Allegheny, Beaver, and Washington—all meet. Cross the creek (called “crick” in these parts) and turn right on Cottage Rd., which will take you to Raccoon Creek State Park. Right and left on US30 for a bit, right on Park Rd., right on SR151 and head home (see Potato Garden Run) [65 miles].

Raccoon Creek Extensions — 85 miles

For a longer ride than Raccoon Creek, take Park Rd. across SR151, right on Long Rd., left on Thompson Hill Rd., right on Tank Farm Rd., cross the creek at Independence, left on Independence Rd., right on Bryson Rd., right on Airport Rd. becoming Kane Rd., to SR151 and home (see Potato Garden Run) [85 miles]. There are lots of neat roads in Raccoon, Independence, Findlay, and Robinson townships not covered here.

McDonald — 50 miles

As above, start out on US22 west. At Potato Garden Run Rd. turn south (left), on SR980. Turn left on Noblestown Rd. through McDonald and finish through Carnegie (see Ways back from Carnegie in the introduction to this section) [50 miles].

Kirsops Hill — 65 miles

Like McDonald, but from SR980 take the first right on Kirsops Hill Rd., leading through Joffre/Raccoon. Take a right across the tracks. Cross SR4012 (i.e. eventual Noblestown Rd.) on SR4015, bearing left on SR4016. From here the ride is like Cherry Valley [65 miles].

Smith Township — 90 miles

As noted, a lot of good riding is to be found in Raccoon, Independence, Findlay, Smith, and Robinson Townships to the southwest of the airport. Unfortunately, it takes a long time to get there by bike from Pittsburgh. The Old Steubenville Pike parallels US22 and serves as an east-west artery, from which you may head either north or south. There is a large loop that encom- passes Smith Township west of Midway and McDonald. Take Noblestown Rd. out of Carnegie and past McDonald. Halfway to Midway, turn left (south) on SR4037, later right on SR4016, later SR4015, taking you to Cherry Valley. Follow SR4015 north to Joffre, then farther north on an unmarked road to Kirsopps Hill Rd., beginning at Raccoon Creek. Left on and then right off SR980 on Beagle Club Rd., becoming Blatz Rd. Left on Burgman Rd., becom- ing North Branch Rd., becoming SR978 as it gets toward Oakdale. Return on Noblestown Rd. through Carnegie and the South Side [90 miles].

The Panhandle Trail

A lot of the rides in this section can be reached from the Old Steubenville Pike, which is a major backbone going west, with many rides sprouting off in either a north or south direction. The quickest way to join it is to take Carson St. to the West End Circle (left), then take Steuben St. up over the hill to Middletown St. (left) to SR60, then SR60 over the hill to US22. Alternatively, take Noblestown Rd. to Carnegie, then Campbell’s Run Rd. (the Yellow Belt) to SR60, then left to US22. Ride past Robinson Town Center (Towne Centre) and look for the sign to the Old Steubenville Pike, which paralleles US22. You can take the Pike all the way to Weirton, West Virginia (see the ride by that name).The Panhandle Trail is a rail-trail with varying surface that will eventually run from outside Weirton WV to Collier next to Noblestown Rd. outside Carnegie. The stretch from Noblestown to Collier is complete as of this writing, and is a nice alternative to Noblestown Rd. It’s decorated in places with some interesting roadside installation art. It crosses The Montour Trail in McDonald. Intermittent stretches of the trail exist all the way to WV, but the surface is often the original railroad ballast and is best ridden on a trail or cross bike.

Midway — 75 miles

A lot of rides go through Midway on Noblestown Rd west of McDonald. Take Old Steubenville Pike as far as Oakdale Rd. (left); it’s called Mahoney Rd. on the right. Turn right on North Branch Rd., then right when it ends at SR980. Take the first left past the Silverdale golf course, then left at the end of that road into Midway for a rest stop. Take the main road west out of town toward Bulger. In Bulger, take the first left on Pleasant Valley Rd., later turn left on Cherry Valley Rd., which will take you to Noblestown Rd. outside McDonald. Return to Pittsburgh on Noblestown Rd. through Carnegie [65 miles]. For a longer ride, fork south off Cherry Valley Rd. just past the couple of houses that constitute the settlement by that name, past the covered bridge and reservoir and make your way down to SR50 (Millers Run), then back to Carnegie via the reverse of Millers Run [75 miles].

Weirton, WV — 90 miles

An easy 85-90-miler. Start out as under Potato Garden Run. If you take the Old Steubenville Pike far enough, you will arrive in Weirton, W. Va., passing through Florence, Hanover Twp., and Paris just before the border. In Weirton, bear left at the first major intersection and take the road to what becomes a scary downhill. At the bottom, in front of Weirton Lumber, turn left on what turns out to be Harmon Creek Rd. Take this back into Pennsylvania (includes about two miles of rough-hewn limestone, the only place I ever saw Ruud van Dijk lose his sense of humor). Right on Hanlin Sta. Rd., then quickly left after an open grate bridge on Francis Mine Rd. to Burgettstown. In Burgettstown, get across SR18 to Church St. (between the church and the old school), turn left, and eventually join the road to Joffre, Bulger and Midway. In Midway take Noblestown Rd. (right) to McDonald, Oakdale, Carnegie, and to Pittsburgh by riding up and over SR50 (Noblestown Rd.) [90 miles].

Mechling Hill — 90 miles

This is like Weirton, WV but avoids the stretch of alluded-to rough limestone, which may actually have been fixed by now anyway. Coming back on Harmon Creek Rd., just past Colliers go right on Mechling Hill Rd., a nice 2 mi. uphill. Left at the top. In Eldersville, you can go left to Burgettstown, briefly left on SR18, right on Church St. and back as under Weirton, WV [90 miles].

Moscow-Toronto — 115 miles

A five-country and three-state ride. Take the Weirton, WV ride, through Florence and Paris, to SR2, and head north along the WV side of the river, passing by Toronto and Moscow. In (right) to the Ohio River and return on SR51 through the South Side [115 miles].

Weirton-Avella — 100 miles

This ride includes three foreign countries: Florence and Paris toward the border with WV, and then Venice on the way back from Avella. Start out as under that ride, and get on Harmon Creek Rd. out of Weirton, as described. Right on Mechling Hill Rd. At the top, turn left, then right on Tent Church Rd., a nice if barely paved road which takes you to Cross Creek Rd. (left). Soon right on Pott Rock Run Rd., a climb which takes you further south to a left on WV SR27 (left). Across the PA border this bcomes SR844, which leads to the beginning of SR50 (left), which takes you into Avella. At this point, if you have a tailwind as usually, the ride becomes fun for the next 25 miles or so. SR50 is Millers Run Rd. When SR50 becomes a major divided highway, Millers Run goes left and becomes frontage. Follow it. Outside Bridgeville look for Presto-Sygan Rd. (left-and-right), which will take you to Thoms Run Rd. (straight), and into SR50 (left) into Carnegie. Return on SR50 (Noblestown Rd.) through the Southside [100 miles].

Follansbee, WV — 110 miles

A Dan Chew ride I did recently by accident by riding the wrong way on WV SR27. Ride the reverse of Weirton, WV, through Burgettstown. From Harmon Creek Rd. in WV, turn right up Mechling Hill Rd. Right turn at the top and take this over to SR2 (left), past Follansbee and Wellsburg. East on SR27, becoming SR50 in PA. Follow SR50 back to Carnegie and home (see Weirton-Avella) [110 miles].

Beaver Grade Rd — 60 miles

Begin as under Campbells Run Rd. Follow the Yellow Belt along SR60. Beaver Grade Rd. leaves the Yellow Belt to the left. Take Beaver Grade Rd. past Moon to the Orange Belt, and take the Orange Belt (Narrows Run Rd., right) to SR51 at the Ohio River. Follow SR51 left toward Ambridge. Cross the bridge into Ambridge, take Ohio River Blvd. to Sewickley, then recross the river and return via SR51 to Carson St. [60 miles].

SR60-Carnegie Loop — 30 miles

At the West End Bridge on Carson St. turn left on Steuben St. and stay on this all the way to the top, then left at the top, still on Steuben St. Down a hill to SR60. Take SR60 up a long, boring hill, eventually joining the Yellow Belt. Follow the Yellow Belt to Carnegie on Campbell’s Run Rd. Return on SR50 (Noblestown Rd.) [30 miles].

Beaver Grade-Mt. Lebanon — 45 miles

A nice way out of town is to take SR51 to McKees Rocks, going straight at the underpass where you join the Blue Belt coming from the right. This is Chartiers St., which leads to the base of the McKees Rocks-Steubenville Pike, which leads up past some cemeteries to Clever Rd. and Beaver Grade Rd., which you take as far as Montour Run Rd. (bear left). Follow Montour Run Rd. to Cliff Mine Rd. (left) to US22-30 (left). Right at the Yellow Belt (Campbells Run Rd.), leading into Carnegie. Take the Yellow Belt toward but not as far as Mt. Lebanon. Left on Beverly Rd. to McFarland Rd., right to West Liberty Ave. At the Blue Belt turn right on Pioneer Ave. and follow it parallel to West Liberty Ave. down to Saw Mill Run. Blvd. Right and then left on Bausman St., to Brownsville Rd., to S. 18th St. and Carson St. on the South Side [45 miles].

Clinton-Enlow — 60 miles

Clinton, on US30, is a reasonable halfway point on a ride, and one ends up riding through it on many occasions. Start out like Beaver Grade- Mt. Lebanon, taking Cliff Mine Rd., as described. In the unmarked village of Enlow, take a two-o’clock reading and head down McCaslin Rd., also known as Clinton-Enlow Rd. It’s a nice, rough, untraveled road, partly gravel. Follow this road to Moon-Clinton Rd. (left), to US30 and Clinton. Cross US30 and ride on what is now Washington Rd., as far as Robinson. Take Durane Rd. south to the US22 frontage road (Romane Rd., also Old Steubenville Pike, left). Follow US22 frontage to SR978 (Bateman Rd., right). Left on North Branch Rd., still SR978, to the Orange Belt (still SR978, right). Follow the Orange Belt (McKee Rd., Union Ave., Battle Ridge Rd., Thoms Run Rd., Prestley Rd.) into Bridgeville. Left on SR50 (Washington Pike) into Carnegie, and follow SR50, then SR60 (i.e. Noblestown Rd.) all the way to the West End, returning on Carson St. (SR51, right) through the South Side to the Birmingham Bridge and Oakland [60 miles].

Monaca — 85 miles

A hard ride, because of the unrelenting, if short, hills. Monaca is about as far as one would want to go down the Ohio River for a crossing and return on the other side of the river (although see Liverpool, OH). Follow Beaver Grade-Mt. Lebanon to Beaver Grade Rd. (right), which changes its name to Bro(a)dhead Rd.). Outside Aliquippa, take Chapel Rd. to the right. You’ll need to ride along a brief unpleasant stretch of SR18 into Monaca. In Monaca, cross the bridge to Rochester, and ride parallel to SR65 toward Pittsburgh until 9th St. in Freedom. Turn left sharply up 9th St. which, out of town, becomes Lovi Rd. (SR2006; bear left at the fork). Bearing right at the fork out of Freedom gives you Freedom-Crider Rd. (SR2004), which will intersect with Lovi Rd. past SR989. Follow Lovi Rd., eventually becoming Pleasant Hill Rd., then Knob Rd. Right on Brush Creek Rd. to the Red Belt. Left to Pearce Mill Rd., which leads to the right into North Park, with a return on the Yellow Belt east to Middle Rd. [85 miles].

Deer Lane Extension — 95 miles

The preceding ride may be lengthened (as if it needed it) by taking Deer Lane Ext. off SR68 out of Rochester to Big Knob Rd. (SR1028). Right at SR989 and then left on SR1030. Right on Darlington Rd. to Freedom Crider Rd. Left and then right on Rolling Rd. and Brush Creek Rd. to the Red Belt outside Warrendale. Follow the Red Belt east to Pearce Mill Rd. and return through North Park [95 miles].

Sewickley — 40 miles

One of the more popular Sunday rides when people just want to ride slow and flat for 2-3 hours. Take SR51 through McKees Rocks and then take the detour on Neville Rd. across Neville Island. Learn this way; you will use it often. Rejoin SR51 (right) and ride through Coraopolis to the Orange Belt and turn right over the Sewickley Bridge. Take Beaver Ave. out of Sewickley back toward Pittsburgh. You will need to travel on SR65 for about 3-4 miles to Emsworth. Left after a hill at a stoplight, and then quickly right on Church Ave., eventually becoming California/Lincoln Ave. Take the main roads into the North Side, ride around the Mall, and work your way over to River Ave./ Rd. heading northeast along the Allegheny River to the 31st St. Bridge (right). Left on Liberty Ave. back through Bloomfield [40 miles].

Sewickley-Rochester Rd.*** — 55 miles

A classic to which you will often return. Follow SR51 west over Neville Island and back again through Coraopolis to the Orange Belt and the Sewickley Bridge. In Sewickley, continue on the Orange Belt out of town (Blackburn Rd., a good climb) as far as Rochester Rd. Turn south (right) on Rochester Rd. and eventually intersect the Yellow Belt. Take the Yellow Belt through North Park, across SR8 to Middle Rd. [50 miles]. Or, follow Rochester Rd. farther south to the Green Belt. Left just past the Green Belt to Babcock Blvd., which returns through Millvale and the 42nd or 31st St. Bridges [55 miles].

Red Gate Rd — 55 miles

The point of this ride is to climb the hill, which is of Dirty Dozen caliber. Ride to Sewickley (see Sewickley-Rochester Rd.). Head toward Pittsburgh on Beaver St., passing up Glen Mitchell Rd. and Sycamore St., although you may want to try these too sometime. Just before the junction with SR65, go up the unpromising hill to the left, bearing right on Red Gate Rd., getting worse the farther you go. Left on Merriman Rd. to Glen Mitchell Rd., to Blackburn Rd. (right). Follow the Orange Belt and return as if under Sewickley-Rochester Rd. [55 miles].

Ambridge — 50 miles

Start out as under Sewickley-Rochester Rd. but don’t go across the Sewickley Bridge. Instead, keep on SR51. You will encounter one climb along the way to the Ambridge Bridge. Right through Ambridge on Merchant St. A nice thing to do at this point is to follow the Red Belt (Big Sewickley Creek Rd.) left and take it to any of various turnoffs back to Pittsburgh. For example, take Duff City Rd. right at the point where the Red Belt becomes Warrendale-Bayne Rd., which will lead to Rochester Rd. See Sewickley-Rochester Rd. for the continuation [50 miles].

Ambridge-Tarentum — 75 miles

Like Ambridge, but take the Red Belt to just short of Ambridge, then all the way to Tarentum, back on Freeport Rd. [75 miles].

Honig Rd — 65 miles

Honig Rd., outside Ambridge, like SR228, is like a Black Belt to the Red Belt. Take California Ave. from the North Side to a left across the McKees Rocks Bridge. Right at the end to and across Neville Island, through Coraopolis and across the Sewickley Bridge, then left through Sewickley to the Red Belt, just short of Ambridge (right). In a couple of miles turn left on Honig Rd., a surprisingly level road. At Conway-Wallrose Rd., jog right and left on Mary Reed Rd., becoming Park Hill Rd. At Freedom-Crider Rd. turn right, and then right on Lovi Rd., becoming Pleasant Hills Rd., which perversely goes right when it turns into Knob Rd. At a church turn left and join the Red Belt. Take Graham Rd. straight when the Red Belt goes left, to Pearce Mill Rd. (right to North Park). Take Babcock Blvd. (right) out of the park to Hemlock Dr. (left), right on Peebles Rd., left on the Green Belt to SR8 (right). Return through Etna over the 62nd St. Bridge [65 miles].

Broadhead-Beaver Grade Rd — 50 miles

Bro(a)dhead Rd. It is the continuation of Beaver Grade Rd. and follows the ridge running north-south above the Ohio River. Consequently, it is quite up and down. Take SR51 toward the Ambridge bridge, and peel off to the left up any one of various daunting climbs: Narrows Run Rd., Flaughtery Run Rd., Spring Run Rd., Bocktown Rd., Harper Rd., Laural Rd. My personal favorite is South Heights Rd., going up out of the town by the same name. Follow Broadhead-Beaver Grade Rd. left (south) to SR60. Right and left on Tidball Rd. to McMichael Rd., which will take you down to Campbell’s Run Rd. (left). Return on SR50 (Noblestown Rd.) [40-50 miles].

Neville Island — 15 miles

Neville Island itself is a reasonable destination. It is flat, has a broad main road and, on a Sunday, is a good place to practice time-trial tech- nique. Take SR51 past McKees Rocks and the McKees Rocks Bridge. Take the next bridge to the right over to Neville Island. Exit at the end of the island in Coraopolis and take SR51 back to town [15 miles].

Outskirts of McKees Rocks — 30 miles

Pass up Neville Island on SR51. In a mile or so take a sharp left on Middletown-Coraopolis Rd. to Pine Hollow Rd. (left). Right on Heckel Rd. to the McKees Rocks-Steubenville Pike (left). Right on Chartiers Ave. to Windgap Ave. (right) to Windgap Fording Rd. (right) to Steuben St. (left), back to Carson St. (right and return) [30 miles].

Hassam Rd — 40 miles

This is a hilly way to get from McKees Rocks to Coraopolis, or the reverse. In McKees Rocks take Chartiers Ave. to Broadway (right). Follow Broadway to Pine Hollow Rd. and take this up through Kennedy Twp., join- ing Forest Grove Rd. which crosses I79. Where Forest Grove Rd. goes right take Ewings Mill Rd. straight, a steep descent becoming Hassam Rd., which is a steep ascent. At the top of Hassam Rd. take Montour St. (right) down to Coraopolis. Take SR51 to the Sewickley Bridge to Sewickley, with lots of choices from there. The shortest is SR65 to Emsworth, left to Center Ave., becoming Church Ave., Division Ave., California Ave., Lincoln Ave., California Ave., Brighton Rd. to the North Side, returning over the Ft. Duquesne Bridge to Point Park, Blvd. of the Allies to the Jail Trail [40 miles].

State Route 8 to Butler

As noted above, the quickest way to Butler is via SR8, which isn’t as crazy a proposition as it might sound. On Sunday, and in mid-morning on a week-day, the road is relatively hassle-free; and it’s by far the quickest way north. Dozens of rides can be planned by peeling off SR8 to either the right or left. For example, go to SR228 at Glade Mills and turn right (east) all the way to Howes Run Rd. (right), to the Red Belt (left), to Tarentum and back on Freeport Rd. [60 miles]. Or go farther north, to Brownsdale Rd. and turn left (west) to Brownsdale and then Evans City (see Evans City). Even farther north is Dinnerbell Rd., which takes you into Saxonburg. SR8 is a good alternate way to get to North Park. Go as far as the Yellow Belt and turn left.

Steiner Bridge Rd — 65 miles

Take Mt. Royal Blvd. all the way to where it ends in SR8, and turn left on SR8 to past the Yellow Belt. Shortly afterwards, angle left on S. Frontier Rd., and take this to Hardies Rd. Right and left on Richland Rd. to the end. Left and right on Meridian Rd. to the Red Belt. Right and left on Ridge Rd. to State Rd. (right). Cross Denny Rd. to a T (left), to a crossing of SR228 on Harbison Rd. Ride bearing eventually right on Forsythe Rd. to SR8. Cross SR8, left, then turn right on Glade Mills Rd. to the base of the hill up Steiner Bridge Rd. Follow this as it meanders, becomes Jacks Rd., and runs into Deer Creek Rd. (left). Right on Saxonburg Blvd., and return through Etna [65 miles].

Renfrew — 80 miles

Follow the Three Degree Rd. ride to where Three Degree Rd. joins Valencia Rd. Take Valencia Rd. north. Beyond Brownsdale Rd. it becomes Meridian Rd. Take this past the quaint village of Renfrew. Past Renfrew, take McCalmont Rd. right (east) to and past SR8. At Old Plank Rd. turn left and later right on Criswell Rd., which you take right (south), to Rockdale Rd. (right), to Dinner Bell Rd. (left). At Knoch Sch. Rd. on the edge of Saxonburg, turn right to SR228 and with a quick right and left finagle the connection to Westminster and Sun Mine Rds. over to the Red Belt. Keep straight and then turn right up Superior Rd. (SR908 Ext.) and return through Russellton to Freeport Rd. [80 miles].

Watters Station — 70 miles

From Mars-Evans City Rd., take either Union Church Rd. or, farther along, Wat(t)er(s) (Station) Rd., right to Valencia Rd. Left and then right on West Rd. (about a mile of light gravel) becoming W. Cruikshank Rd. across Three Degree Rd. Carefully right on SR8 to Glade Mills, and then left on SR228, for a return along various roads going south (see Dinner Bell Rd. for the best options) [70 miles].

Valencia — 55 miles

Start out as under Three Degree Rd., that is, fork right at Valencia, listen to the guitars and castanets, and then turn left on Three Degree Rd. Turn right at Denny Rd. over to SR8. Left and then right on Leslie Rd., becom- ing Cherry Valley Rd. after some gravel, right on Saxonburg Blvd. and return through Etna [55 miles]. Valencia is also a good way to get to Mars, by taking Three Degree Rd. to SR288 and then left.

Lower Middlesex — 50 miles

Take Babcock Blvd. to SR910, then left and right on Old State Rd. Right on Perrysville Ave. (Three Degree Rd.) into Valencia, right on Butler St. to Ridge Rd. (right). Across State Rd., left on Glasgow Rd., right on Cunningham Rd. before SR8. At SR8 turn left, then right on Sandy Hill Rd., passing up possible turnoffs on Donaldson Rd. and Glasgow Rd. to Kyle Rd. (right), becoming Rittman Rd. Left on the Red Belt, then right on Logan Rd. to Saxonburg Blvd. Right and then left on McRell (McKrell) Rd. to Little Deer Creek Rd. in Russellton. Right and ride straight to Freeport Rd., returning over the Highland Park Bridge [50 miles].

Two Glasgow Rds — 50 miles

Follow Tour of Middlesex to an encounter with Glasgow Rd. #1 as it turns right off Ridge Rd. Jog right and left on SR8 to join Sandy Hill Rd. Right on Glasgow Rd. #2. Cross the Red Belt on Shephard Rd., following it left and uphill to Middle Rd. Ext. (right), and return on Middle Rd. through Etna [50 miles].

Hannahstown — 70 miles

(This is not Historic Hannastown; see the ride by that name). This ride makes a natural arch above Saxonburg. Arrive at Glade Mills as under the ride by that name. Take McFann Rd. across SR8, then left, then right on Old Glade Mills Rd., which will soon cross SR228 and become Mekins Rd., leading to E. Cruikshank Rd. (right), becoming Welsh Rd. after Anderson Rd. on the left. Left at the next fork, then right on W. Jefferson Rd. (not marked), which crosses Dinner Bell Rd. and goes down a steep hill and into some wild territory (one of the farms is called Tilted Acres). Cross Saxonburg Rd. at Jefferson Center, continuing on Hannahstown Rd. (don’t take the main road, to Saxonburg). Right at SR356 for just a bit to Hannahstown. Avoid SR356 by turning right on Neupert Rd. and immediately left on Keck Rd., across Winfield Rd. to Riemer Rd. Leave this right on Cubbage Rd., then left on Coal Hollow Rd., which takes you briefly back to SR356 (right). Turn right on SR228, then quickly left on Hepler Rd., becoming Singleton Rd. across Fleming Rd., which will take you across Ekastown Rd. to Howes Run Rd. (left, whew). All this may sound complicated, but it really isn’t, and avoids heavily traveled SR356. Turn right off Howes Run Rd. on Thompson Rd., fork right on Martin Rd., leading to Millerstown & Culmerville Rd. (right). Go down the hill to join the Red Belt; turn left, then immediately right on Superior Rd. into Russellton. Take Little Deer Creek Rd. back to Freeport Rd. and return [70 miles].

State Route 356

SR356 runs from Butler to Freeport, then crosses the Allegheny River at Garvers Ferry and heads past Leechburg and Apollo, gratefully dying out when it runs into SR66 outside North Washington. Even though it mostly has shoulders, this road is traveled by heavy, fast, and impatient traffic, and should be avoided where possible. Don’t plan rides by it. The one place it has to be ridden is over the river from Freeport to Garvers Ferry.

Dinner Bell Rd — 60 miles

Butler County above SR228, in the general Saxonburg area, contains a rich network of scenic roads for exploration. Here is one suggestion: go north as under Glade Mills, but instead of taking McFann Rd. to the right and to SR8, continue straight, then right on Jones Rd., turning into Powell Rd., which runs into SR8 farther north, after passing through a golf course. Then turn right (briefly south) to Dinner Bell Rd. Take this left (east) to just short of Saxonburg. Right (south) to SR228 on Knoch School Rd. Finesse the nearby connection to Westminster Rd. (left-and-right), becoming Sun Mine Rd. Before hitting the Red Belt, turn right on Anderson Rd. to Saxonburg Blvd. (left) and return [60 miles].

Slate Lick — 85 miles

I have done this ride with Tyrone Gregg by going straight up SR8 to Dinnerbell Rd. Ride through Saxonburg and out of town first to the north (left), then to the right toward Cabot and West Winfield (Cabot-Winfield Rd.). Go through Cabot, following it down a hill to a T intersection, where you turn right on a road that soon hairpins left up a steep wooded hill, eventually tak- ing you into Slate Lick (consisting of a few buildings, including a convenience store). Go more or less straight (don’t take the road to the right, to Boggsville) toward the SR28 expressway. Pass over this through Slate Lick and travel on to SR128, leading into Freeport from the north, where the easiest choice is to climb the hill (SR28) toward Natrona Heights and follow Freeport Rd. flatly back to Pittsburgh [85 miles].

Middle Rd — 40 miles

Take SR8 north from Etna a mile or so. Right on Saxonburg Blvd. and then immediately left up the hill on Middle Rd., a beginning point for a large number of rides of varying length. Continue to SR910. Jog right and left up Middle Rd. Ext. Left at Bairdford Rd. to the Red Belt (right). At Culmerville turn right on Saxonburg Blvd. and return through Etna [40 miles].

Garbage Truck — 25 miles

Start out as under Middle Rd., but turn left on the Yellow Belt to SR8 and return for around [25 miles] by drafting the garbage trucks and other heavy vehicular traffic (an Angelo Cialone favorite). The same effect can be achieved by taking the North Park ride to SR8.

Campbell-Eisele Rds — 35 miles

From Tyrone Gregg. Take Middle Rd. to SR910 (the Orange Belt). Right on SR910 and follow it past where the Orange Belt turns left (at Bairdford Rd.). Ignore the first next left (SR1024), but take the next small road to the left (Campbell Rd., SR1020). This pretty road leads to an eventual inter- section with Saxonburg Blvd. Cross Saxonburg Blvd. and take a hard right along the cinder and gravel road (Eisele Rd., not marked). This gradually rising road leads to the intersection of Mill Dam Rd. and Cove Run Rd. Taking Cove Run Rd. to the right will lead back up to SR910; turn left and follow SR910 over the hill to Freeport Rd. [35 miles].

Middle Rd.-Dorseyville — 30 miles

Follow Middle Rd. to the Orange belt and go right on it, but ignore it when it goes to the left and follow SR910 east, becoming the Yellow Belt, to Dorseyville (nice climb) and Saxonburg Blvd. Around [30 miles].

Middle Rd.-SR910 — 35 miles

Like the preceding ride, but follow SR910 all the way to Freeport Rd. [35 miles].

Middle Rd.-Orange Belt-Russellton — 40 miles

When Middle Rd. meets the Orange Belt, fol- low it briefly to the right and then left (Bairdford Rd.) all the way into Russellton, then return via Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. to Freeport Rd. [40 miles].

Beyond Middle Rd — 55 miles

Suggested by Steve Loevner, who lives out here. Follow Middle Rd. like on the preceding ride, but at the Red Belt, cross it on what is now Deer Creek Rd., becoming Monks Rd. at the junction with Cherry Valley Rd. Right on Sandy Hill Rd., becoming Spring Valley Rd. across SR228. Right on Victory Rd., becoming Saxonburg Blvd. back across SR228, and return through Etna [55 miles].

Bairdford — 40 miles

Begin like Middle Rd. Extension. After the top of the Middle Rd. Ext. climb, turn right on Lick Rd. (narrow pot-holed descent). Right on Bairdford Rd. to Bairdford and the Orange Belt. Take Oak Rd. to SR910 (left), then Minks Hill Rd. into Dorseyville. Right on Saxonburg Blvd. and return [40 miles].

North and South — 55 miles

Rather similar in spirit to the foregoing. Take Middle Rd. north. At the Orange Belt, go right and then left (leaving the Orange Belt) on Middle Rd. Extension. Past the top of the hill, go left on Shephard Rd., then right at the bottom of the hill, still on Shephard Rd. At the Red Belt, right and then left on Glasgow Rd. to Sandy Hill Rd., left on Browns Hill Rd. to Overbrook Rd. to SR228. Right on SR228, over a nice stretch to Saxonburg Blvd. (right). Left on Dawson Rd. to the Red Belt. Cross the Red Belt and go right on SR978Ext. through Russellton and beyond, returning on Freeport Rd. [55 miles].

Saxonburg Blvd — 55 miles

Roughly parallel to Middle Rd., Saxonburg Blvd. leads slightly uphill north, all the way to Saxonburg, about 25 miles north of Pittsburgh (at SR228 go briefly right, then left, following the sign to Saxonburg). The town itself (founded by the man who built the Brooklyn Bridge) is picturesque, and a good place to break a ride. For a return, take Rebecca St.=Freeport Rd. out of town to SR228. Briefly right and then left on Lardintown Rd., a wonderful flat or slightly downhill run all the way back to the Red Belt. At the Red Belt, go right, then left on Superior Rd (SR908 Ext.) to Russellton and back to Freeport Rd. [55 miles].

Berry Hill., Brownshill, Klein, Church Rds.

Berry Hill, one of the Dirty Dozen, is a very steep hill joining Saxonburg Blvd. and Middle Rd. well inside the Green Belt. In the other direction it’s called Brownshill Rd., and it joins Saxonburg Blvd. with Dorseyville Rd. Don’t try going downhill on Berry Hill; it’s too steep, and you’ll have trouble stopping on Dorseyville Rd. Klein Rd. also joins Middle Rd. and Saxonburg Blvd. a little further out. Another attractive link between Saxonburg Blvd. and Middle Rd., between the Green and Yellow Belts, is Church Lane/Rd., joining Cedar Run Rd. just before Middle Rd.

Dorseyville Rd — 20 miles

There are lots and lots of variations to the basic Saxonburg Blvd. ride. Here is a common one. Take Saxonburg Blvd. to the base of Dorseyville Rd. just past Hartwood Acres (right). Ride fairly challenging Dorseyville Rd. to Kittanning Pike (left), and take this back to Sharpsburg. Find your way to the main street in Sharpsburg (left), and return over the Highland Park Bridge [20 miles]. Alternatively, take the Green Belt (Fox Chapel Rd.) left off Dorseyville Rd. and return through Fox Chapel [25 miles].

Saxonburg Blvd.-Tarentum (***) — 50 miles

A good group ride and a classic 50-miler. Take slightly uphill Saxonburg Blvd. all the way to the Red Belt at Culmerville, then take the Red Belt east to Tarentum, then back on Freeport Rd. [50 miles] or maybe slightly less.

Curtisville — 20 miles

Take Saxonburg Rd. to Curtisville, then go left on Kaufman Rd. to Bairdford Rd. (left), right on Oak Rd. to SR910 (right), left on Middle Rd. and return through Etna [20 miles].

Cannon Hill — 50 miles

Start out as under Curtisville. From Kaufman Rd. out of Curtisville, turn right on Shuster Rd., becoming just past the Red Belt Armstrong Rd. (a slight jog right), then Cannon Hill Rd. Right on Cherry Valley Rd., and come back over the hill on Christy Rd. Left at the Red Belt, then right on Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. back through Russellton [50 miles].

Kittanning Rd — 20 miles

In Etna, cross the railroad tracks and SR8 and look for Kittanning St. straight ahead. Ride up this as far as Dorseyville Rd. Going straight on Dorseyville Rd. will take you to Saxonburg Blvd. and a return through Etna [25 miles]. Or go right at Fox Chapel Rd. (the Green Belt), back to Freeport Rd., usually by turning right either at Guyasuta Rd. or at Delafield Rd., and return [20 miles].

Starz Rd — 35 miles

A variation to the basic Saxonburg Blvd. ride. Ride on Saxonburg Blvd. through Dorseyville and down and up the next hill out of town. Turn left at the first road (Campbell Run Rd., but quickly right on Starz Rd., a good climb and, usually, a flock of wild turkeys. Eventually left on Dawson Rd. to a right on Bryson Rd. (possibly not marked), into Bairdford. Here you can go right on the Orange Belt all the way to Russellton, then right on Little Deer Creek Valley Rd. back to Freeport Rd. and the Highland Park Bridge [35 miles].

Great Belt — 85 miles

Take Saxonburg Blvd. to Saxonburg (at SR228, turn right, then left into town). Go right on Main St. and then left out of town, catching Saxonburg- Butler Rd. In a couple of miles, turn right on W. Jefferson Rd., then left on Great Belt Rd., a nice longish road that takes you out past the Butler-Freeport Rail-Trail, through the village of Great Belt, and then turns into Harris Rd. (bear right at the fork). At Herman Rd. turn right, then later right on Clearfield Rd., another nice long road that runs into Cabot-Winfield Rd at the bottom of a hill just before a creek crossing and a long climb toward Slate Lick. The finish is like Cabot-Winfield, through Freeport [85 miles].