SCAR, Northern Route

This past weekend Matt Kirk and I traversed Great Smokey Mountains National Park on the AT. Here are some photos from the run. This is a 71 mile route that traces the crest of the smokies from the Pidgeon river in TN to Fontana Dam in NC. On my third attempt I finally succeeded in completing the traverse. Matt, along with Scott Brockmeier, made this traverse 1 1/2 years ago. This year Matt and I started from the North end and went South.

My oldest daughter Ashley along with Sam, Thomas, and Kevin met Matt and I at Newfound Gap and again at Clingman's Dome and provided aid and support. Matt and In had penty of water along the ridge and good weather conditions for July, with sporadic rain and overcast skies. Matt finished in 24 1/2 hours and I finished in 25 1/2 hours. Matt could have cracked 24 hours except that he spent some time waiting for me during the last miles.

Now that I have finally completed the Smokies Challenge Adventure Run (SCAR) I can honestly say that if you ever have the opportunity to attempt this run DON'T DO IT. Go to Bryson City and have some ice cream instead.