The Black Diamond Trail is an 8.4 mile stretch of stone dust trail, which has been converted from an old railroad bed. The trail passes through a mix of woodland and pastoral lands along the western slope of Cayuga Lake. Trailheads at Cass Park/Allan H. Treman State Park in the City of Ithaca and Taughannock Falls State Park in Trumansburg provide parking and access to the trail. Recreational opportunities include hiking, jogging, biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Pet Policy: A maximum of two pets are allowed in day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive. Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
The trail is open year round from dawn to dusk.
Most New York State Parks charge a vehicle use fee to enter the facility. Fees vary by location and season. There is no fee to use the Black Diamond Trail; however, a park use fee may be encountered if accessing the trail from parking available at Allan H. Treman and Taughannock Falls State Parks.
Highlights of the Black Diamond Trail:
Hunting and trapping are prohibited along the trail. However, private property adjoins the trail corridor where hunting may occur during hunting season. NYS Parks recommends wearing an article of blaze orange clothing for added safety during hunting season.