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New entrance to Cobble Hill

People enjoy the Cobble Hill boardwalk section of the trail. (Provided photo — Diane Chase)

I know. It’s a “new to me” entrance to Cobble Hill. The upgrades for Lake Placid’s Cobble Hill began a few years ago, but the upper section is finally rerouted, graded and complete. (Jump for joy!)

This trail has been a lifeline for me. If I needed to drop off a child at a dance class and had some time to spare, I’d go up Cobble Hill. I’m not much of a runner, but I can hike. If I needed to run errands, I knew I could squeeze in a hike to the summit of Cobble Hill. This trek still allows me to carve out a few moments, with the bonus of beautiful views.

Over the years, there have been various entrances to gain access to this 470-foot elevation, 1.5-mile round-trip hike. Now there is only one. The trail begins with a 250-foot boardwalk over a wetland area. We see jack-in-the-pulpit and hobble bush going to seed and a last burst of fall flowers. The trail transitions to gravel and crosses two footbridges before crossing the old Echo Pond (Long Path) section of the trail. The Echo Pond section was closed for flooding, and the DEC Educational Mobile Educational Center advised everyone to stay on the new trail.

As soon as we cross this trail intersection, the path starts increasing in elevation. It is easy to see all the latest trail work put into place. Rock steps guide us to the summit. We wander along the path that now skirts the open-rock face. We arrive at the first open vista to catch glimpses of the town of Lake Placid. The trail continues toward the summit and views of the Olympic ski jumps. Please avoid any herd paths. Private property surrounds this trail. If you are into hiking challenges, this hill is also part of the Lake Placid 9’er. For more information and to register, go to LakePlacid9er.com and cross Cobble Hill off the list.

There is no trailhead parking for this hike. Please park at designated parking areas around Mirror Lake Drive or in a municipal lot. While searching for the perfect parking spot, please mind the “do not block” signs and be considerate of private property. Why? Because it’s nice. On a side note, this is the hill my daughter renamed Steve because Cobble Hill was too impersonal. So next time you need to climb a mountain, but your time is limited — try Steve. You won’t regret it.

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