Photo of loon by Rick Cronk. Other photos by Jean-Claude Fouere.
Jean-Claude Fouere organized a 4-day late-July exploration of the Essex Chain Lakes, south of Newcomb in the Adirondack’s Essex County (http://www.esf.edu/aic/images/Camping%20Map-1.pdf). This special area was acquired by New York State and opened for outdoor recreation in the summer of 2014.
Our Mid-Hudson party of three started with a short carry to Deer Pond, a second longer carry upon crossing Deer Pond (alternatively one can carry around Deer Pond) to launch on Third Lake, paddle to Second Lake and then carry to First Lake. (One could also paddle to Forth, Fifth, Sixth and Seventh lakes.)
Several primitive campsites are available along the shore of the lakes, making for a very enjoyable wilderness experience.