Long section hike logistics question

[Poppins]

My friend and I are doing a section hike from Springer to as far north as we can get in two weeks (with the goal of I-40 on the north side of the Smokies.) Yes, I know its ambitious.

Question about reservations in the Smokies. I'm not a thru hiker since I won't be ending 50 miles outside the park so I need to know the exact date and shelter I'll be staying at in the park for reservations. This is a problem as I'm starting waaay south of the park and don't know the exact date we will arrive (if we arrive, yah yah yah...) The reservation office said I can call and change from Fontana Marina or NOC. Any suggestions on what I could do different or if I'm approaching this the wrong way? Thanks guys!

[shakey_snake]

If you're going to hike that section, do it in reverse. If you get to Springer "too fast", you can always finish out on the BMT (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benton_MacKaye_Trail).

[shakey_snake]

or if I'm approaching this the wrong way? Thanks guys!

Couldn't have said it better myself. :D

[Poppins]

Interesting idea, start of on the north end of the Smokies and head south. :)