A Hidden Park in Pittsburgh

Graffiti railroad tracks. cassiedouglas (Atlas Obscura User)

Once a small farming village, Beechview-Seldom Seen Greenway is now a hidden nature area dedicated to preserving some of Pittsburgh’s natural scenery. Its acres of green space let intrepid explorers feel like they’ve slipped into a slice of nature far away from the city.

The pathway itself is not long, but it features some pretty cool off-the-beaten-path hangout spots. The main attraction is the abandoned graffitied railroad overpass, which now serves as an unsanctioned canvas for vibrant art.

It’s also not uncommon to see people rock climbing and slacklining along the dilapidated tunnel marking the trail entrance. The tunnel is worth stopping to check out. It was built in the early 1900s using alternating layers of bricks that form a striking pattern to walk beneath.

There is a rocky-beach area running along the creek that some people like to swim in on hot days. When the water level is low, you can follow the creek’s path for quite a while. One way leads further into the woods past where the path stops, while the other way heads toward a cavernous area near the tunnel.

Know Before You Go

It's pretty easy to miss the pull off; if you travel on Saw Mill Run Boulevard toward Mt. Washington and right before the Woodruff Street ramp leading up to Mt. Washington you will see a dome-like structure with a small pull off area. That pull off area is the official parking area for the trail. In order to find the abandoned railroad tracks: once you enter the trail by walking under the tunnel you will see a wooden structure leading up the hill resembling large stairs, climb up those and you will find the secret spot.