The Gallatin House Visitor Center is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, every day from May through September, and on weekends the rest of the year. It is closed on Christmas, New Year’s Day, Veterans Day, and Thanksgiving. The grounds are open sunrise to sunset daily.
There is no entrance fee to visit Friendship Hill National Historic Site. It is free to enter year-round.
From Pittsburgh, take I-79 south to Exit 14, then PA 21 east to PA 166 south, leading you through picturesque landscapes to a historic gem near Point Marion.
At Friendship Hill, there is a main parking lot at the base of the hill and a smaller lot for hikers. Accessible parking is available closer to the house. No specific RV size limits are mentioned, but motor vehicles are prohibited on trails. No overnight parking. No parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Monongahela River, Friendship Hill National Historic Site is a serene and historic retreat that encapsulates the essence of colonial America. This 661-acre estate, once the home of Albert Gallatin, a pivotal figure in early American politics, offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and natural beauty.
The site’s centerpiece is Gallatin’s enduring home, a testament to the evolution of building techniques over two centuries. Visitors can wander through the Brick, Frame, and Stone Houses, as well as the unrestored Stone Kitchen, which stands as a poignant reminder of the past. The house and its surroundings are adorned with exhibits that delve into Gallatin’s multifaceted career, from his tenure as Secretary of the Treasury to his diplomatic roles in France and Great Britain.
Beyond the historic residence, the grounds invite exploration with over ten miles of trails, including the main loop trail that passes by the unmarked grave of Gallatin’s first wife, Sophie. This trail meanders along the river bluff, offering breathtaking vistas of the Monongahela as it flows towards its confluence with the Allegheny River.
Seasonal changes paint the landscape with vibrant colors; spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer warms the trails with lush greenery, autumn sets the woods ablaze with color, and winter blankets the site in a serene silence. The river, a haven for fish like bass and catfish, reflects the changing sky.
For those seeking more than a day trip, the nearby town of Point Marion and the larger city of Pittsburgh offer a blend of artisanal charm and urban sophistication. Local outfitters provide gear for hiking and fishing, while the site itself hosts various events, including historical reenactments and nature walks led by park rangers.
In the evenings, as the sun sets over the Monongahela, the tranquility of Friendship Hill National Historic Site comes alive, a perfect blend of history, nature, and relaxation that beckons affluent travelers to immerse themselves in its unique and captivating world.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.1
- Annual visitors
- 20 000
- Established year
- 1978
Top 3 Facts about Friendship Hill National Historic Site
The home at this historic site features a parlor floor that has been redone and rebuilt multiple times over its 200-year history, showcasing the evolution of building techniques and materials. The main loop trail, 3.8 miles long, passes by the unmarked grave of Gallatin’s first wife, Sophie, and along the bluff overlooking the Monongahela River.
This historic estate, set on 675 acres along the Monongahela River, is a haven for diverse wildlife. Benthic macroinvertebrates thrive in its streams, while streamside birds such as the ovenbird add to the rich avian tapestry. The forests are home to a variety of flora and fauna, including invasive plant species that park managers diligently monitor. Ray-finned fishes swim in the waters, and amphibians, mammals, and reptiles inhabit the landscape, making this a vibrant ecosystem for nature enthusiasts to explore.
Along the Monongahela River, the landscape is defined by forested rolling hills and steep valleys, with local streams like Georges Creek and Jacobs Creek carving through the terrain. The river, which eventually joins the Allegheny to form the Ohio River, flows north from its source near Fairmont, West Virginia, and its waters are set against a backdrop of flat-lying rock units typical of the Appalachian Plateaus, with surface variations shaped by erosion and downcutting.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during warmer months for optimal hiking. Allow a few days to explore over 10 miles of trails and the historic house. Arrive early, park near the visitor center, and plan for rest stops and meals, as on-site options are limited. Check for summer events like reenactments or historical lectures.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for varying weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a map. For camping, bring a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking gear. Check the season for specific needs like warm jackets or insect repellent.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing them. Never feed animals and properly dispose of trash to preserve their natural habitats. Stay on designated trails and respect the environment as you would your own backyard.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and waterways, and check weather conditions. Follow park rules and signs. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 724-725-9190.
Seasons
Spring brings mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and blooming landscapes, making it ideal for hiking the Friendship Hill Loop Trail. Enjoy FestiFall in late spring, featuring historic toys, live music, and crafts, amidst the scenic beauty of the season.
Summer brings warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and occasional thunderstorms, ideal for hiking 10 miles of trails. Don’t miss the Whiskey Rebellion event in late August, a historical reenactment amidst lush greenery.Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking history and nature.
Experience the vibrant fall colors and cooler temperatures (50s-70s Fahrenheit) from September to November. Attend the annual FestiFall, celebrating Albert Gallatin’s life, amidst the historic estate’s serene autumn landscape. Crunching leaves and mild weather make it an ideal time to visit.
Visit from October to April for a serene winter landscape, with temperatures often below 47°F. While cold and sometimes snowy, the tranquility and fewer crowds make it a unique time to explore historic grounds and trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Friendship Hill National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The drive from Pittsburgh takes approximately 2 hours. You can take US 51 south to Uniontown, then US 119 South to Point Marion, and finally PA 166 north for about 3 miles to reach the site. Alternatively, you can take I-79 south from Pittsburgh Airport and follow the directions to PA 166 south.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6 feet are not allowed. Dogs are not permitted inside buildings.
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Parking is free, and it is available for all types of vehicles, including campers, motorhomes, camper vans, and trailers.
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Albert Gallatin, a Swiss immigrant and early American politician, is the main historical figure associated with this site. He served as Secretary of the Treasury from 1801 to 1814 under Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, reducing the national debt, purchasing the Louisiana Territory, and funding the Lewis & Clark expedition. Gallatin lived in this country estate in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, from 1788 until his death in 1849.