Rail trail · New York
Black River Trail
A 14-mile multi-use trail along the Black River in the western Adirondack foothills between Watertown and Lyons Falls, following a former railroad corridor through river gorges, waterfalls, and northern hardwood forest.
Length
14 miles
Surface
Crushed stone, Natural
Route
Point to point
Endpoints
Watertown to Lyons Falls (Lewis County)
Season
May through October for best trail conditions; spring brings high water and dramatic gorge views; fall foliage along the river is outstanding; winter access is variable
Plan your ride or walk
The Black River Trail follows the dramatic Black River from the city of Watertown through Jefferson and Lewis counties to Lyons Falls, passing waterfalls, limestone gorges, and a river landscape that draws fishers and nature watchers in equal measure. The approximately 14-mile route is surfaced in a mix of crushed stone and natural surface, making it most comfortable for walking and mountain biking rather than road cycling. The Black River is one of the main tributaries draining the western Adirondacks, and the corridor passes through working farm country, former mill sites, and patches of mature hardwood forest. Fishing is a primary draw, with brown trout and smallmouth bass commonly found in the river. New York State Parks manages the trail as part of the broader Adirondack foothills trail network.
Getting there
The southern trailhead is in Watertown, accessible from I-81 at exit 44, about 70 miles north of Syracuse. Additional access is available in Carthage and at several points along Route 26 through Lewis County. The northern terminus is near Lyons Falls, at the confluence of the Black River and Moose River.
Official trail information
Confirm current conditions, closures, and any required trail pass on the managing agency’s page.
New York State Parks: Black River 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
How long is the Black River Trail in New York?
The Black River Trail is approximately 14 miles point to point from Watertown in Jefferson County north to Lyons Falls in Lewis County, following the Black River through gorges and hardwood forest.
What is the surface of the Black River Trail?
The trail surface varies between crushed stone and natural surface. It is suitable for walking, running, and mountain biking, but less appropriate for road or hybrid bikes in sections with rougher natural surface.
Is fishing allowed on the Black River Trail?
Yes. Fishing is a major draw along the Black River Trail. The Black River holds brown trout in cooler stretches and smallmouth bass through the lower and middle sections. A valid New York State fishing license is required.
What is the scenery like on the Black River Trail?
The trail passes through limestone gorges, past several waterfalls on tributary streams, former mill town sites, and northern hardwood forest. The river corridor is especially dramatic in spring when snowmelt raises water levels, and in fall when foliage peaks.
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