The Black River originates in the Green mountains, passing through Amherst Lake, Echo Lake, Lake Rescue and Lake Pauline. It then picks up more tributaries, and winds through the town of Ludlow. Tumbling through impressive Cavendish Gorge, the river widens as it passes under the Downers Covered Bridge, and eventually enters to the Connecticut River.

Fly anglers like to fly fish the trophy section, which regularly produces large rainbows and browns. Warmwater fly anglers enjoy the Black, as it fishes well for bass and other warmwater species.

The Black River, stocked each year by the Fish and Game Department, offers plenty of trout for both the casual and avid fisherman. There are pullouts and parking areas along the road to accommodate siteseeing and fishing.