Lots of thoughts and ideas here. That's why I asked. But, in general, I'm all for going it alone. Tours are expensive - most use B&Bs and inns and that drives up the price. And true, the planning done for you, but it's somebody else's plan, and there are limited options for deviation. I prefer to go alone. Getting stuck with people who are annoyances or ego freaks is the worst. There are some exotic tours I'd consider, but I probably couldn't afford them anyway. If I'm going to ride the GAP or Erie Canal, I'll do it alone. But that's not to say I wouldn't enjoy meeting up with youse somewhere on the trail. Thanks everybody for your thoughts!