Upper Wolf Jaw, Armstrong & Gothics Hike (Peaks 18–20) | Adirondack High Peaks

This hike knocked out three Adirondack High Peaks in a single day: Upper Wolf Jaw, Armstrong, and Gothics, peaks #18–20 on my Northeast 111 journey. Starting from Johns Brook Lodge (JBL), this route dives straight into the heart of the Great Range and delivers everything the Adirondacks are known for: rugged climbs, tight scrambles, steep elevation changes, and unforgettable summit views.

Upper Wolf Jaw served as the first summit of the day and a strong warmup. Like many wooded High Peaks, the summit is more subtle, but the ridgeline energy builds quickly once you step onto the Great Range. From there, the climb to Armstrong gets steeper and more technical, with ladders, rock scrambles, and increasing exposure. Armstrong’s summit starts to open up the views, offering a preview of what’s still to come.

Then comes Gothics, the standout of the day. With its open alpine summit and sweeping 360° views, Gothics is widely considered one of the most iconic mountains in the Adirondacks. The exposed rock, dramatic ridgelines, and unmistakable profile make it a highlight for many 46ers.

This hike was also memorable for the social side of the mountains. Starting from JBL meant sharing the trail with other hikers, and I ended up spending part of the day with new friends met along the way, one of those uniquely Adirondack experiences where strangers become trail partners.

Tackling three High Peaks in one push was a turning point in the journey. It reinforced how physically demanding the Great Range can be, but also why it’s such a legendary stretch of trail in the Adirondack High Peaks Wilderness.

This page documents Peaks 18–20 of my Northeast 111 project, continuing my long-term goal to summit the highest mountains across the Northeast and share the process along the way.