Whiteface Memorial Castle can be seen from the distance from ledges of Cobble Lookout. (Provided photo — Diane Chase)

When I asked my husband to join me for an easy hike, we did not align on what we considered easy. He evaluates ease with ability and vertical challenges. I enjoy backpacking, camping and an all-day excursion, but the easy hikes are done in a few hours and leave time for brunch. Wilmington’s Cobble Lookout Trail fits the bill.

The hike is just 1.3 miles to the lookout with about 250′ in elevation gain. We arrive and find just one car in the lot and no book to sign into at the register. We continue on the path, following the blue trail markers. The trail stays quite level in the beginning. There is a bit of rubble, though nothing unmanageable. Whether it comes from the nearby defunct quarry, I can’t say. The path immediately opens up to a lovely wooded walk. The ground is starting to freeze, so traversing muddy patches is easier.

We follow the antics of a Hairy Woodpecker as it flies and pecks from tree to tree. A herd path leads to cliffs, which we assume is a popular spot for climbers. It quickly rounds back to the marked route. We navigate the wide path over numerous wooden plank bridges set over marshy sections and reach a small rock staircase. We greet the only people we see as they pass us to return to their car. The whole trail goes through forested areas, filtering out the sun. The sunlight grows stronger as we finally reach the open cliffs’ breathtaking view. There is loose rock everywhere, so I avoid the ledge. My husband is more of an explorer. We finally sit and enjoy the solitude. We know it won’t last for long.

Whiteface Mountain is to the south behind Marble Mountain, and Esther Mountain is to the southwest. We can barely glimpse the Whiteface Memorial Castle in the distance. There is another viewing point to the east along another herd path. We return at a fast clip and get back to the road in less than an hour. Brunch is our reward.

To get to the trailhead from Wilmington, turn onto Whiteface Memorial Highway at the Route 86 intersection (four corners) and drive west 2.8 miles, passing Santa’s Workshop. Turn right onto Gillispie Drive (CR 18A). You’ve gone too far if you reach the Whiteface Memorial Highway Toll House. The trailhead and parking area are 0.3-miles on the right. Enjoy!