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Pittsburgh is earning a reputation as a biking city, and once you see it from the saddle, it’s easy to understand why. Its three rivers, historic bridges, leafy parks, distinctive neighborhoods, and growing network of bike infrastructure give riders plenty to explore, while its famous hills add just enough challenge to keep things interesting.
That combination is exactly what PedalPGH is designed to showcase. Returning Sunday, August 30, 2026, for the 33rd year, UPMC Health Plan PedalPGH turns Pittsburgh into one big cycling tour. Western Pennsylvania’s largest bike ride brings thousands of cyclists together for a fully supported tour of Pittsburgh, with routes designed for a wide range of ages, abilities, and fitness levels. The event starts and finishes at Allegheny Commons Park in Pittsburgh’s Northside, where a day of exploring the city by bike ends with food, music, drinks, and a Finish Line Festival.
PedalPGH’s curated routes take riders on an adventure every year
The 10-mile Outside+ North Side Loop is the family-friendly option, with roughly 200 feet of elevation. Starting at Allegheny Commons Park, riders cruise through historic Manchester, follow the Three Rivers Heritage Trail along the Allegheny River, reach Millvale Riverfront Park, and return to the park for the finish. The route is mostly flat and uses river trails, protected bike lanes, and quieter streets, making it a natural choice for newer riders and families.
For cyclists who want a bigger taste of Pittsburgh, the 25-mileSteel City Media Tour covers roughly 1,200 feet of climbing while connecting some of the city’s most recognizable sights. Riders cross iconic bridges, roll through the Strip District and Polish Hill, and experience the car-free Serpentine Drive through Schenley Park. There are climbs (this is Pittsburgh, after all!), but strategically placed rest stops and course support help keep the ride enjoyable.
Then there’s the 53-mile U.S. Steel Endurance Challenge, with more than 3,700 feet of elevation and a journey through more than 30 Pittsburgh-area neighborhoods. This is the route for experienced cyclists looking to earn their Pittsburgh climbing credentials, with major ascents through Riverview Park, Troy Hill, and Mount Washington, along with some of the city’s most rewarding views. And finally, a 40-mile option is also available for riders who want more distance without taking on the toughest climbs– simply follow the 53’s bailout signage to avoid the major climbs.
Every PedalPGH route returns to Allegheny Commons Park, where the ride becomes a celebration of how far the city’s bike network has come.
The Finish Line Festival brings all participants together for music, food trucks, activities, and local beer from Allegheny City Brewing and Two Frays Brewery. A Kids Zone offers activities from the City of Pittsburgh Park Rangers, YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, Moonshot Museum, and Kamin Science Center.
PedalPGH is BikePGH’s largest annual fundraiser, and registration proceeds support the nonprofit’s work to make Pittsburgh safer and more accessible for everyone to walk and bike. Since 2012, the event has raised more than $1.5 million for bicycle and pedestrian advocacy. That mission is woven into the event itself: PedalPGH is a chance to experience the city as it is today while supporting the work to make getting around it better tomorrow.
“PedalPGH is all about coming together to support safer streets and a stronger biking community. Every rider helps move BikePGH’s mission forward to make Pittsburgh safer for all active transportation users,” said Catlyn Brooke, Events Manager at BikePGH.
Come ride the Steel City
PedalPGH takes place Sunday, August 30, 2026, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning and ending at Allegheny Commons Park in Pittsburgh’s North Side. All routes are supported with rest stops, aid stations, mechanic support, colorful wayfinding signs, and turn-by-turn navigation. And while the ride is fully supported, participants should remember that streets remain open to vehicle traffic during the event.
Ready to see Pittsburgh from the saddle?
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