After missing out on stays at Johns Brook Lodge (JBL) for the last several years, I booked two stays for Frankie and I in 2022: one in July to climb Marcy with Erwin, and one in August to climb Gothics, Armstrong, and Lower Wolf Jaws with Erin and Alden. I hiked these peaks solo back in 2017, using the same trails, but as a day hike, and this loop is one of my favorites. It would be new for everyone else and I was excited to share it. Staying two nights at JBL spreads the miles out over three days, making the peaks more accessible for the kids. We lucked into among the very last parking spots at the Garden; it was very full for a Wednesday yet again. I had been prepared to drop Erin and the kids and send them on ahead, but was very relieved not to have to do that. We booted up and made last minute pack adjustments while the kids bounced around the trailhead area, then finally set off.
