Rachel Carson Trail - Eastern Terminus

The eastern terminus of the Rachel Carson Trail is located in Harrison Hills Park, a wooded county park perched above the Allegheny River near Freeport, PA. This trailhead offers scenic overlooks, well-marked paths, and immediate immersion into the rugged terrain the trail is known for. It’s a fitting start to the journey—quiet, forested, and surprisingly wild for being so close to Pittsburgh. From here, the trail heads southwest, beginning its nearly 46-mile journey toward North Park. Wayfinding starts right away with yellow blazes marking the route through fields, forests, and steep ravines. Overnight parking is allowed in the park, but it’s a good idea to notify the Allegheny County Parks Department in advance if you plan to leave a vehicle overnight.