Benton MacKaye Extension?

[Krewzer]

Does anyone know when the BMT extension is expected to be completed.
Thanks,
Krewzer

[Two Speed]

From the BMTA website . . .

"The first phase of the trail, from Springer Mountain, Georgia, north and west along the Tennessee Valley Divide to the Cohutta/Big Frog Wilderness, has been complete for over a decade and is maintained by Association members.

Phase II of the trail, extending from the Ocoee River north along the Tennessee/ North Carolina line to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Deals Gap, is currently under construction by Association members. Completion is anticipated during the spring of 2005. Much of Phase II is already open to hikers. For the latest updates click on “Trail Section Descriptions” on the Home page. Phase II will add 85 miles to the trail.

Phase III of the trail will be entirely within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP). In November 2004 the BMTA and the GSMNP signed an agreement to extend the trail through the Smokies. It will extend from the Twenty Mile Ranger Station in the southwest corner of the park to the northeast boundary near Davenport Gap. The route agreed upon will cross the AT twice, at opposite ends of the park, thus creating a giant BMT-AT loop-hike of almost 180 miles entirely within the park. Signs to guide hikers along this route should be in place by the summer of 2005. "

All you want to know should be on:

http://www.bmta.org/

Hope that helps, and happy trails.