UPMC Northwest opened in 2004 on 144 acres of gently rolling land owned by the Northwest Hospital Foundation. The following year, the walking trail debuted as a mulch-covered path for employee wellness. Today, the 0.74-mile trail is an asset for the health of the entire community, from local residents to hospital employees, visitors, and patients.
Throughout the years, generous contributions have funded improvements to make the trail more accessible and comfortable for everyone. In 2016, donors to the Northwest Hospital Foundation facilitated the paving of the trail and installation of rest areas. Since then, upgrades have included improving drainage, adjusting the grade of the path, and installation of ADA curb cuts. Recent improvements to the open picnic pavilion include new steps with handrails for easier access, as well as the addition of an ADA picnic area and outdoor exercise station. Additional amenities are a little free library and seasonally available portable restroom.
Add strength training to your trail journey at the outdoor exercise station, located behind the pavilion. Ten units of state-of-the-art equipment – including three that are wheelchair accessible – allow you to work out at your own pace. Scan the QR codes to call up instructions, demos, and tips for creating exercise routines and logging your progress. The exercise station is open to adult and teen patients, visitors, and staff who want to add more activity to their day, just steps away from the hospital.
Every step on the trail is made possible by the kindness of our donors and supporters. Thank you for investing in a healthier future for our community.
