Rail trail · New York
Black Diamond Trail
A rugged 22-mile natural-surface trail along the Susquehanna and Chemung river corridors near Watkins Glen, named for the Black Diamond Express passenger train that once ran through this region of the Finger Lakes.
Length
22 miles
Surface
Natural, Gravel
Route
Point to point
Endpoints
Watkins Glen area to Corning / Painted Post area
Season
April through November; leaf season in October is peak; the natural surface can be wet and muddy in spring
Plan your ride or walk
The Black Diamond Trail takes its name from the Lehigh Valley Railroad's famous Black Diamond Express passenger train that once thundered through this stretch of the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier. The 22-mile natural-surface trail runs along former railroad right-of-way through the Chemung and Susquehanna river corridors, linking the Watkins Glen area to the Corning region. Unlike the paved rail-trails of the Finger Lakes heartland, this is a rougher, quieter route through river bottomland and forested bluffs, better suited to hikers and gravel riders than road cyclists. The corridor passes through state forest lands with river access at multiple points, and the Watkins Glen end puts it within easy reach of Watkins Glen State Park and Seneca Lake wine country. Fall color on the river bluffs is a highlight.
Getting there
The northern trailhead near Watkins Glen is accessible from NY-14 at the south end of Seneca Lake, about 55 miles southwest of Ithaca. The southern end reaches the Corning-Painted Post area off NY-414. Parking is available at trailheads at both ends and at several road crossings in between.
Official trail information
Confirm current conditions, closures, and any required trail pass on the managing agency’s page.
New York State Parks: Black Diamond TrailWhat to bring
Gear keyed to a long, flat trail day: footwear, hydration, sun protection, and a pack sized for the distance.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the Black Diamond Trail?
The trail is named for the Lehigh Valley Railroad's Black Diamond Express, a luxury passenger train that ran through this region from 1896 until the mid-20th century, connecting New York City with Buffalo via the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier.
How long is the Black Diamond Trail?
The Black Diamond Trail is approximately 22 miles point to point from the Watkins Glen area south to the Corning-Painted Post area along the Chemung and Susquehanna river corridors.
Is the Black Diamond Trail good for biking?
The trail has a natural surface of packed dirt and gravel, making it suitable for mountain bikes and gravel bikes but not road bikes. It is rougher than paved Finger Lakes rail-trails. Hikers will find it comfortable for day hikes.
What else is near the Black Diamond Trail?
The northern trailhead near Watkins Glen puts you minutes from Watkins Glen State Park, famous for its gorge trail and waterfalls, and the Seneca Lake wine region. Corning at the southern end is home to the Corning Museum of Glass.
More New York trails
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