If it's worth it, I don't mind waking up at 2am for the drive down. I just worry about there being too many people being such a popular spot, but it sounds like if I go NOBO, I can get a good 8 rough miles in that the day-hikers probably wouldn't want to hit, then spend some time around McAfee Knob before starting day 2. From what I've read about the area so far, it sounds awesome, I'm going to keep this as a top choice on the list.

I know I'll be spending a day there, this July or another time, that's for sure. I always saw photos of McAfee Knob, just never made the connect to what/where it was.