Iron Gate Trail – Footpath along Nine Mile Run stream loop from Carnegie Mellon University
Iron Gate Trail – Footpath along Nine Mile Run stream loop from Carnegie Mellon University
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Iron Gate Trail – Footpath along Nine Mile Run stream loop from Carnegie Mellon University
02:46
41.1km
440m
Mountain biking
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 20, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 10.6 km for 55 m
After 26.1 km for 195 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
10.6 km
Water Steps
Lake
10.9 km
North Shore Riverfront Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
12.0 km
Great Allegheny Passage Trailhead – Point State Park
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
21.3 km
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
21.6 km
Panther Hollow Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
27.1 km
Westinghouse Memorial
Highlight • Monument
This memorial includes a pond and a large bronze monument. There is …
Tip by
32.0 km
Iron Gate Trail
Highlight (Segment) • MTB Park
Tip by
33.9 km
Footpath along Nine Mile Run stream
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
35.6 km
Tranquil Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
41.1 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
25.0 km
9.76 km
2.96 km
2.34 km
907 m
144 m
Surfaces
16.3 km
12.5 km
8.43 km
1.98 km
958 m
866 m
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Elevation
Highest point (350 m)
Lowest point (210 m)
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Weather
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Today
Sunday 21 June
25°C
14°C
11 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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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 mountain biking route that truly mixes it up, the Iron Gate Trail – Footpath along Nine Mile Run stream loop from Carnegie Mellon University delivers. This moderate 25.5-mile (41.1 km) ride, with 1429 feet (436 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 46 minutes, is perfect for riders who want both scenic cruising and some technical challenge right from the city.
What to expect on Iron Gate Trail – Footpath along Nine Mile Run stream loop from Carnegie Mellon University
The route starts by offering a gentle warm-up along the Nine Mile Run Trail, a primarily crushed gravel path that meanders beside the stream. You'll enjoy scenic views and easy pedaling through reclaimed industrial land, now lush with vegetation. But don't get too comfortable; the Iron Gate Trail soon introduces a different beast. This section is a wooded, swooping singletrack with exposed roots, tight turns, berms, and even some small jumps, demanding more advanced skills. It's a fantastic way to experience the diverse landscapes of Frick Park, transitioning from relaxed cruising to exhilarating downhill sections.
Planning your visit
Starting directly from Carnegie Mellon University, this loop offers convenient access for city dwellers. The Nine Mile Run Trail is popular with both cyclists and walkers, so be mindful of other trail users, especially on weekends. The Iron Gate Trail can be ridden year-round, but conditions are best when dry, as roots and dirt can become slick after rain. Consider an early start to enjoy the trails before they get too busy.
Trail details
- Distance: 25.5 miles (41.1 km)
- Elevation gain: 1429 feet (436 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 46 minutes
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