It took some time for the AT to catch on, so the same will be for the GET. As the route improves, it will gain traction. There have been several thruhike attempts, so that is a good sign. As the AT becomes more popular, the GET will be in a good position to benefit. I think it is a novel idea and worth pursuing. This may be a silly suggestion, but what about a more "compelling" northern terminus? Mt. Marcy, Slide Mtn, Niagara Falls, or one of the Finger Lakes region waterfalls?