This trail was amazing just to walk.

The feeder canal is full the entire length of the trail and there is a current so the water is fresh. The trail is wide and surface is as described with occasional snow potholes but not muddy. Trail is partly shaded and partly exposed. There is a lovely park at the Boonville end with lots of picnic spots. Very few benches on the trail. We rode on July 4th and saw maybe 10 people the entire length so not Hi am wondering how did it get this message you have very crowded

I have walked this trail for years and it it always fascinating. Very well maintained. Heavily trafficked but the width of the trail is large enough for runners/walkers coming and going.

Full disclosure: I am a *huge* fan of canal trails. This one is beautiful and serene and visually interesting (if you like canals). There are a few spots on the trail that could use some fill (puddles almost too big to get around), but the trail is a pretty good ride. I had great weather (with one downpour) but noticed very few bugs. I had expected more bugs (I strongly encourage bug spray in any case). I rode from Boonville to Forestport and back. After getting soaked on the way out, I stopped for a late breakfast at the Forestport Diner. They close at 1p.m., so donut fans should get there early. I tied a dozen to the back of my bike just for the sporting challenge (see picture). This resulted in one very pleased 18yo when I got home. Go for the canal trail, pause for some donuts.

In the fall, the leaves reflection on the still waters is stunning. Is an easy flat ride, down and back in about 2.5 hours. On route 8 (heading North), turn left before the bridge and the parking area is adjacent to the waterfalls. In Boonville, there is ample parking at the park near the covered bridge.

Hard to find, no signage in Redwood or Theresa, chained gate at the feed store in Redwood. My GPS found access at Rivergate, with parking. Don't wear sunglasses! The deep shade and black trail surface (cinders, maybe?) make it difficult to see the rocks, deep sand, potholes and craters. The single star was earned because of all the nice people I met, asking directions.

We started from the park in Boonville rode to Forrestport. We had a picnic lunch overlooking the lake and rode back to the park. The only thing to mention is the gates across the trail. Where the trail crossed public roads gates have been installed to stop ATVs. We had to walk around about 4 or 5 gates. We were told that they would be open for snowmobiles this winter.

My total mileage measured 4.5 from the parking lot off Route 3 in Black River to the new addition on parking lot on Walker Ave., located in the city of Watertown. This trail now has three parking lots. It also crosses three roads with road crossing right-a-way lights. It is well maintained. On the new addition in the city of Watertown area, there is a Good will .. food share box and when in season, a vegetable garden that is shared with those using this trail. Future plans are to extend this trail to downtown Watertown where it will once again follow the black river!

Was going to begin at maple ave as it’s closest to home, but didn’t feel comfortable parking here. Clearly marked for motorized vehicles and probably great for that and locals but wouldn’t leave my car here unattended. Maybe try a different starting point.