Best natural monuments around Rankin include a diverse collection of sites that blend natural beauty with historical significance. This region features a mix of historical landmarks, botanical gardens, and expansive woodlands. Visitors can explore 4 natural monuments, offering varied outdoor experiences. The area provides opportunities to engage with both cultivated green spaces and preserved natural environments.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Hays Woods sprawls over 660 acres of pristine woodland, valleys, and creeks at the southeast edge of Pittsburgh, adjacent to Hazelwood across the Monongahela River. It represents the largest new urban park initiative undertaken east of the Mississippi River in 75 years. Historically utilized for industrial purposes like coal mining, Hays Woods owes its preservation to community advocacy and public backing. Despite its ecological challenges, visitors marvel at its natural beauty, including stunning vistas of downtown and Hazelwood, a nesting ground for bald eagles for over 30 years, and countless hidden treasures. However, be mindful that during the summer months, the trails may become slightly overgrown deeper into the woods.
0
0
The Westinghouse Memorial was unveiled in 1930 in honour of George Westinghouse, who founded the Westinghouse Electric Corporation. This memorial includes a pond and a large bronze monument. There is a sculpture of a schoolboy, looking at the 3 panels which depict the life of George Westinghouse. This is a peaceful place to enjoy the park.
1
0
The Mary Schenley Memorial Fountain is a sculpture and work of art in downtown Pittsburgh. The fountain is sometimes referred to as "A Song to Nature" and serves as the northern entrance of Schenley Park.
0
0
The Mary Schenley Memorial Fountain is a sculpture and work of art in downtown Pittsburgh. The fountain is sometimes referred to as "A Song to Nature" and serves as the northern entrance of Schenley Park.
0
0
A beautiful pond and memorial area dedicated to the memory of the engineer George Westinghouse. The memorial consists of a bronze statue of a schoolboy, who represents "The Spirit of the American Youth."
0
0
This place has been established since 1893, offering a delightful garden experience for the area. Spanning 15 acres, it includes a 14-room glasshouse and 23 distinct gardens, making it a beautiful structure and garden. The view from afar is stunning, but if you wish to enter, you'll need to purchase tickets and check the operating hours.
0
0
Established in 1889 through a land donation by Mary Schenley, this park encompasses 456 acres of trails, woods, and various attractions. Recognized as one of the historic landmarks in the Pittsburgh area, it holds a significant place in the region's history.
0
0
Westinghouse Memorial is a bronze memorial that commemorates George Westinghouse, the founder of Westinghouse Electric Corporation and inventor of the railway air brake.
0
0
Around Rankin, you'll find a diverse mix of natural and man-made monuments. These include expansive woodlands like Hay Woods, significant historical sites such as the Schenley Park Historic Landmark, and cultivated green spaces like Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. There are also memorials that blend into the natural landscape, like the Westinghouse Memorial.
Yes, several natural monuments around Rankin are great for families. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers a delightful experience with its 14-room glasshouse and 23 distinct gardens. The Westinghouse Memorial, with its pond and park setting, provides a peaceful place for relaxation. Additionally, the Schenley Park Historic Landmark encompasses 456 acres of trails and attractions suitable for all ages.
At Hay Woods, you have a good chance of spotting bald eagles, as it has been a nesting ground for them for over 30 years. The area's diverse woodlands and creeks provide habitats for various local wildlife, offering opportunities for nature observation.
Absolutely! Hay Woods offers extensive trails through its 660 acres of woodland, valleys, and creeks. The Schenley Park Historic Landmark also features numerous trails across its 456 acres. For more hiking options, you can explore the hiking routes around Rankin, which include trails like Nine Mile Run Trail.
Beyond exploring the monuments themselves, the Rankin area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find excellent hiking trails, MTB trails, and cycling routes. These routes often pass through or near the natural monuments, allowing you to combine sightseeing with your chosen activity.
Yes, the Mary Schenley Memorial Fountain is noted as being wheelchair accessible. It serves as the northern entrance of Schenley Park and is a beautiful sculpture and work of art.
The natural monuments around Rankin are rich in history. The Westinghouse Memorial, unveiled in 1930, honors George Westinghouse, founder of Westinghouse Electric Corporation. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens has been established since 1893. The Schenley Park Historic Landmark was established in 1889 through a land donation and is recognized as a significant historic landmark in the Pittsburgh area.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a beautiful structure and garden spanning 15 acres with a 14-room glasshouse and 23 distinct gardens. While the view from afar is stunning, you will need to purchase tickets and check their operating hours if you wish to enter and explore the gardens up close.
Yes, Hay Woods is notable for its stunning vistas of downtown and Hazelwood. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens also offers beautiful views, especially of its impressive glasshouse and surrounding landscapes. The Schenley Park Historic Landmark also contains various viewpoints across its expansive grounds.
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. They enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of places like the Westinghouse Memorial, the stunning botanical displays at Phipps Conservatory, and the extensive woodlands and scenic vistas found in Hay Woods. The opportunity to engage with both cultivated green spaces and preserved natural environments is a key draw.
Hay Woods sprawls over 660 acres and offers stunning vistas. However, be mindful that during the summer months, some trails deeper into the woods may become slightly overgrown. It's always a good idea to wear appropriate footwear and clothing.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Rankin: