Pittsburgh’s Lost Incline Rail Network

Pittsburgh's lost incline train network once played a vital role in the city's transportation system, helping residents navigate the steep hillsides that define the region. From the late 19th century through the early 20th century, more than 20 inclines were built to connect the river valleys and hilltop neighborhoods, allowing workers easy access to industrial jobs in the valleys below. These inclines, like the famous Duquesne and Monongahela Inclines, used cable cars to ascend and descend Pittsburgh's rugged terrain. However, with the rise of automobiles and improved road infrastructure, many of the inclines became obsolete and were eventually dismantled. Today, only two of these iconic inclines remain in operation, serving as historic reminders of the once-extensive network that defined the city’s transportation history.