This is a 5-6 mile out-and-back hike rated easy. We will hike a part of the northern section of the Black Diamond Trail (BDT), a multiuse rail-trail with a gentle grade.  The BDT runs 8.7 miles from Cass Park near downtown Ithaca to the upper section of Taughannock Falls State Park.

The hike begins and ends where the Black Diamond Trail crosses Houghton Road. There is a small parking lot. If it is full, the shoulder uphill from the crossing is wide enough to be able to park completely off the roadway without encountering a ditch. Please be sure your tires are completely off the pavement.

We will head north on the trail and hike for 60-90 minutes, then turn around and retrace our steps back to the cars.

Dress for the weather, wear sturdy boots, bring water and a sandwich or snack.

Watch this space the day of the hike for any changes or a cancellations.