Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from Homestead
Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from Homestead
2.7
(6)
45
riders
Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from Homestead
03:43
77.2km
720m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Tips
The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 46.8 km for 1.49 km
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
39.5 km
Lowber Passive Mine Water Treatment Plant
Nature Reserve
47.7 km
Red Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
DO NOT DRINK this water, It is from an acid mine and the red-orange color comes from iron and rust.
Tip by
60.8 km
Dead Man's Hollow Conservation Area
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
65.7 km
McKeesport
Highlight • Settlement
The steel industry is no longer a main economic factor in the area, but the city is a popular stop along the GAP, because it has many restaurants, bars, and accommodation options.
Tip by
66.3 km
Kennedy Park and Statue
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
68.4 km
McKeesport Connecting Railroad Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Today, it welcomes pedestrians and cyclists to traverse its 324-foot span, offering a unique perspective on Pittsburgh's industrial past and its transformation into a vibrant recreational asset for the community.
Tip by
68.7 km
McKeesport Connecting Railroad Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Today, it welcomes pedestrians and cyclists to traverse its 324-foot span, offering a unique perspective on Pittsburgh's industrial past and its transformation into a vibrant recreational asset for the community.
Tip by
77.2 km
Homestead Pump House
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
77.2 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
48.4 km
14.1 km
9.51 km
3.63 km
1.50 km
149 m
Surfaces
56.2 km
19.1 km
1.46 km
559 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (370 m)
Lowest point (220 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 10 July
25°C
21°C
88 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a road cycling route that blends challenging terrain with a deep dive into industrial history, the Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from Homestead is definitely worth your time. This route covers 48.0 miles (77.2 km) with 2375 feet (724 metres) of elevation gain, rated as moderate, and typically takes around 3 hours and 43 minutes to complete. It's an excellent choice for cyclists with very good fitness who appreciate unique natural features and historical landmarks.
What to expect on Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from Homestead
Expect a diverse journey on this loop, which takes you through a mix of compacted gravel, asphalt, paved sections, and even some cobblestones. While the official difficulty is moderate, some segments are unpaved and can be tough, potentially requiring you to push your bike. The scenery is captivating, featuring the striking Red Waterfall, also known as Rusty Falls or Blood Falls, which gets its orange hue from iron-rich water. You'll also cycle past the historic Homestead Pump House, a key part of Pittsburgh's industrial past, and cross the McKeesport Connecting Railroad Bridge, offering panoramic views of the Monongahela River. The route often incorporates greenways like Nine Mile Run and Liberty Boro, and is part of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail system, providing a rich blend of nature and history.
Planning your visit
This challenging yet scenic road cycling experience offers a unique perspective on Pennsylvania's industrial heritage and natural beauty. While specific parking or public transport details aren't highlighted, planning for a ride that could take closer to five hours, especially if you stop to explore, is wise. Given the varied terrain and substantial elevation, ensure your bike is suitable for mixed surfaces and that you have adequate hydration and nutrition for the duration. The blend of natural beauty and rich industrial history makes this a highly rated route for those seeking both physical challenge and historical insight.
Trail details
- Distance: 48.0 miles (77.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 2375 feet (724 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 43 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free