Barking Slopes Conservation Area — Attraction in Plum

It's a bit odd to visit. It's a more 'specialized' trail/park in its current form and even with its occasional stairs and small signs with an arrow giving directions rather raw. Ideal for a non-clumsy child to explore but not such a good idea for those whom are not in good shape. It smelled fantastic which also means...ALLERGIES...as well as various flying bugs landing at given times. It's something of a work in progress without much as far as monuments or educational materials. It's one of those odd places which would be better if it decided to go completely overgrown and neglected, in order to be more spontaneous and an odd discovery, or if the country puts in a real effort to grant it more walk-able and cleans out some of the overgrown areas and mosquito breeding areas. Not really worth the trip at this point unless in the area within a 10 -15...

Barking Slopes, is a beautiful piece of the land that the Allegheny Land Trust has saved. Comprised of ridges and steep, wooded slopes, it can be a challenge to hike, but it is worth it. It is located along the Allegheny River, near the Oakmont Country Club. I personally appreciate that hunters are permitted during the permitted ALT hunting season of September 1 – January 31. The ALT views hunting as a natural resource management tool and hunters must review and comply with their hunting policies and guidelines. Having access to such an amazing spot so close to the city allows me to get my kids outdoors even when we don't have a lot of time. Please make sure to clean up after yourself and respect this wonderful piece of land. The ALT protects land like Barking Slopes to improve the quality of life for ours and future...

A fine place to hike if you’re in the area. The lower trail is a short length (about a mile total) and a pretty easy grade - other than a bit of a climb up from the parking area. You make a loop back on a gravel road right next to the train tracks, which gives you a good view of the river. Didn’t explore the upper trails as they are only accessible from a different parking area. The trail was a bit challenging to stay on, even in winter and with a fair amount of markers, mainly because of the many downed trees crossing the path and lots of erosion. I can see how it would be quite difficult to follow in summer, when the vines and undergrowth take over. Still, a nice walk along the river, at the base of some interesting rock cliffs, and past ruins of old brick buildings. Nothing particularly special or unique but...