Thanks Mouse and everyone else. I appreciate for the feedback and am very impressed by how quickly people have responded to this post. Practice runs are in the plans. We have some of the gear needed but are still looking for quality rain gear, a pair of boots, one pack and assorted clothing. Any advice or critique of rain gear is appreciated. We are looking at Marmot, North face etc. with pit zips and pants with zippered legs. As far as clothing, I tried on some Prana pants (convertible) yesterday and they seemed very comfortable but the zipper hit me right at the knees which seemed to be bothersome at first impression. The boots are for my son (recommendations?). I'll be wearing leather boots to protect my abused ankles. I did this at Philmont in 2000 and was good to go. We have a tentative route planned to submit to SMNP 30 days out and are planning alternate routes in case our preferred one has sites that are already taken. Any more advice is greatly appreciated. Blue.