Black Diamond Trail πŸ“

This Rail Trail follows the historic route of the renowned Black Diamond Express, once the Lehigh Valley Railroad’s flagship passenger line connecting New York to Buffalo. Spanning 8.5 miles, the trail treats nature enthusiasts to a diverse array of landscapes – from lush canopies of maple, hemlock, oak, and hickory trees to serene agricultural vistas and numerous cascading ravines leading to picturesque Cayuga Lake. An ideal spot for family-oriented activities like walking, biking, and cross-country skiing, this stone-dust path winds along Cayuga Lake’s upland slopes. Commencing at Ithaca’s city limits, the trail culminates at the majestic 215-foot Taughannock Falls, offering an enriching journey through history and nature’s beauty.

πŸ—ΊοΈ Maps πŸ–ΌοΈ Photos πŸ“½οΈ Videos
Thematic Map: Primary Direction of Hillsides in NYS - Aspect
Map: Floodwood Pond Loop
Map: Lester Flow

Black Diamond Trail

Hiking at Taughannock State Park on the last day of vacation I got absolutely soaked hiking the Black Diamond Trail. I won't say the part of the trail I hiked was the most scenic but it's a nice connector for those who live in Ithaca. 

Sunday August 1, 2021 — Black Diamond Trail
Terrain Map: North-South Lake Campground
Thematic Map: How the Catskill Park Voted in 2024 Presidential Election