Around Imperial-Enlow, you can choose from several types of activities: a cycling connection to the Great Allegheny Passage trail network, a non-motorized multi-use recreational trail, and facilities for skateboarding, BMX, and inline skating. The Airport Connector is intended for touring cyclists and provides an alternative connection from Pittsburgh International Airport to the trail network. The Montour Trail passes through the Village of Imperial; the Recreation and Sports Complex at Leopold Lake has a skatepark, and the lake is home to the Kids Fishing Derby. For planning, the route type, the activity you have in mind, and the conditions at each facility are important points of distinction.

Cycling between the airport and the trail network

The Airport Connector links Pittsburgh International Airport with the Great Allegheny Passage trail network for touring cyclists. The route combines trail and road sections and runs from Enlow to the airport parking lot for about six relatively flat miles. The endpoints, approximate length, and route profile provide an initial guide when deciding whether to take this connection. The distance of about six miles is an estimate. Because route details can change, check the current route description before setting out. The combination of trail and road sections is also important for planning: the Connector does not consist exclusively of trail sections.

The Montour Trail as a recreational trail

The Montour Trail is a non-motorized, multi-use recreational trail on a former railroad corridor and passes through the Village of Imperial. Its purpose differs from that of the Airport Connector: the Connector focuses on linking the airport with the GAP trail network, while the Montour Trail is used for recreation. When choosing a route, you can therefore first consider whether you are looking for a connection to the trail network or a multi-use trail for recreational activities. The former railroad corridor is part of the trail’s history; its current classification as a recreational trail describes how it is used.

Skatepark and Kids Fishing Derby

The Recreation and Sports Complex at Leopold Lake has a skatepark designed for skateboarders, BMX riders, and inline skaters. This offers a clearly defined alternative to activities on the trails in the surrounding area. The township may close the skatepark or restrict its use. Check whether the skatepark is open before visiting. This condition is especially important when planning a visit focused on the facility and the sports it is designed for.

Leopold Lake is home to the Kids Fishing Derby. The lake offers another distinct recreational option alongside the skatepark and trails. If you are interested in the derby, you can take this into account when choosing activities.

Hours and parking

The Montour Trail is open from sunrise to sunset; overnight parking at the trailheads is not permitted. Take both conditions into account when planning your day, especially if you intend to stay for an extended visit. The Enlow trailhead has 36 parking spaces; this number may change. If you plan to park there, check the current information before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Mount Lebanon, Clairton, Imperial, Morgan, Robinson Township, Bridgeville, West Mifflin, Coraopolis

For the broader travel overview: Allegheny.