Are you a member of the LGBTQIA+ Community eager to connect with others while enjoying a hike through the scenic woods of Western PA? Join Volunteer Trip Leaders, Nichole (she/her) and Ash (they/them), as they co-lead a guided hike through 9 Mile Run into Duck Hollow while celebrating the joy of queer identity.

Previously, the Nine Mile Run area served as a slag pile for nearby mills, accumulating an estimated 200 million tons of slag, reaching heights of up to ten stories in some areas. However, a significant cleanup effort was completed along the waterway in 2006, resulting in a remarkable transformation.

During the hike, Nichole and Ash will provide insights into the area’s history, including the origins of the slag heaps and the impact of clean-up efforts.

The first half of the hike will be on wide, fairly flat trails composed of crushed limestone. On the return, we will walk through the slag heaps, which has some more steep and uneven terrain. We’ll take an easy pace with breaks to learn about the area.

Difficulty Level: Level 2 – Easy
Distance: 2 miles
Starting Location: 9 Mile Run Train Parking off of Commercial Street

Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time to ensure that the trip gets underway on time. Dress for the weather (Venture Outdoors trips proceed rain or shine!), bring water, and wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. By reserving a ticket, you acknowledge that you are physically able to undertake the activity described above.

Pay what you can.

This is an inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ individuals to spend time outdoors and find community.