Dryden Rail Trail – Dryden Rail Trail loop from F.R. Newman Arboretum

If you're looking for a surprisingly diverse and accessible jogging route near Ithaca, the Dryden Rail Trail – Dryden Rail Trail loop from F.R. Newman Arboretum is an excellent choice. This moderate 6.0-mile (9.6 km) route features a gentle 210 feet (64 metres) of elevation gain, making it a comfortable 1 hour and 3 minute jog. It's perfect for anyone wanting a varied workout through natural beauty and historical landscapes without a strenuous climb.

What to expect on Dryden Rail Trail – Dryden Rail Trail loop from F.R. Newman Arboretum

The route seamlessly blends the flat, broad path of the Dryden Rail Trail, a repurposed railroad bed, with the rolling earth trails of the F.R. Newman Arboretum. You'll experience a journey through residential areas, rural landscapes, and protected wetlands, with opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially around the active beaver dams in the Cornell Botanic Gardens Purvis Road Wetlands Natural Area. The trail surface varies from stone dust and cinder to earth, offering a consistently easy underfoot experience. This loop is ideal for joggers of all levels who appreciate changing scenery and a relatively low-impact workout.

Planning your visit

The Dryden Rail Trail and F.R. Newman Arboretum are generally open year-round, making this a flexible option for your jogging schedule. Both areas are dog-friendly, provided your pet remains on a leash. Benches are conveniently placed every half-mile along the rail trail, offering spots to rest and enjoy interpretive signs. Parking is available at the F.R. Newman Arboretum, part of the Cornell Botanic Gardens, which also connects to the broader Cornell Campus trail network.

Trail details

• Distance: 6.0 miles (9.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 210 feet (64 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 3 minutes