The Easement Trail at Barking Slopes Conversation Area near Verona, PA (just outside of Pittsburgh) is a difficult 1 mile out-and-back hike. The trail immediately shoots up a steep grade slope before leveling out. At the top of the hill you can see the skyscrapers of downtown Pittsburgh along with the Cathedral of Learning at the University of Pittsburgh. This trail's difficulty is set as "hard" because of the elevation grade on both sides of the hill.
Follow the small white signs with the Allegheny Land Trust logo on them to stay on the proper trail. On the far side of the hill, you'll start hiking downhill again. Watch your step as the trail consists of what looks like baseball-sized volcanic rock and makes it easy to roll your ankle.
At the end of the trail you'll start the Uplands Trail which leads to an overlook to the west end of the trail.
Follow the small white signs with the Allegheny Land Trust logo on them to stay on the proper trail. On the far side of the hill, you'll start hiking downhill again. Watch your step as the trail consists of what looks like baseball-sized volcanic rock and makes it easy to roll your ankle.
At the end of the trail you'll start the Uplands Trail which leads to an overlook to the west end of the trail.
