Originally Posted by rutan74

Do not depend on that snack shack at the summit parking lot. It will probably be closed after labor day. I was there years ago on Columbus day and don't remember it being open. Water IS a problem most everywhere on the BRP not to mention the access road to Mitchell. Then it also depends on the weather. If it is really hot, you will need some SAG. If the temps are mild, you might make it but then you have a return trip to worry about. It is tricky. If you scout the route before hand, you can always stash a bottle or two at one of the overlooks. Then again, that scouting trip may scare the crap out of you and cause you to bag this crazy idea.

Now, I did a summit when I was 60 and it was not real fun until you make it. The descent is a lot of fun though. The access road is much steeper than the BRP and one of the times I did the summit, I came across a group of Model T folks driving to a show in Atlanta and they were traveling the BRP and decided to go for the summit. I met them at the ranger station parking lot as I was taking a break. Many of the cars did not make the summit as one owner told me his car could not make the climb. Made me feel good that I was doing it, yet a car could not even though it was a Model T.

Anyway, have fun. The ride either from the south or north is pretty epic as you move along the ridgeline. The views are great which helps with the suffering. Depending on how late in September, you might get some leaf changes too.

john