Black Diamond Biking - Ithaca, NY Jul 2024
Black Diamond Trail Ride & Ithaca Farmers Market Adventure
The Black Diamond Trail is a crushed-stone path that runs between Taughannock Falls State Park and Ithaca’s Cass Park, following a former railroad line named after the old Black Diamond Express. The trail has gentle, steady grades, plenty of shade from the old growth tree canopies, stunning views into the gorges Ithaca is famous for and is quiet, peaceful riding with little road interaction. It’s one of the Finger Lakes region’s true gems — and one of the most scenic rail trails in the state.
Riding With the Bike Club
I rode with members of the bike club, which always adds a fun social energy to the day. The pace was comfortable, conversation flowed easily, and the trail offered just enough challenge to keep it interesting without ever feeling strenuous. It’s the kind of ride where you can look around, breathe deeply, and really enjoy the landscape.
A Detour Into Town
Once we reached Ithaca, I wasn’t ready to quit riding — the day was too beautiful, and the town has too much character to ignore. So I added a few extra miles by biking around the waterfront and weaving through some of Ithaca’s colorful neighborhoods.
Eventually, I made my way to one of my favorite places in all of Upstate New York:
Ithaca Farmers Market
The Ithaca Farmers Market is pure joy: open-air stalls right on the water, artisan goods, local produce, musicians playing, the smell of fresh food everywhere. It’s lively and beautifully diverse — a perfect reflection of the Ithaca community.
I parked my bike, wandered the stalls, chatted with vendors, and treated myself to lunch by the lake. Eating outside, surrounded by flowers, boats, and people simply enjoying their day, felt like the perfect midpoint to the ride.
The Ride Back
Refreshed and well-fed, I retraced my path back toward the trail. The afternoon light filtering through the trees made the return ride even more beautiful. It was one of those days where everything — the weather, the rhythm, the company, the scenery — came together seamlessly.
