We are preparing for the Philmont hike in Cimarron, NM by doing several hikes with the next one being a trip on the AT 10/11 through 10/15 and we want to get in at least 40 miles. I personally have only been as far north as Neels Gap, GA but some of the adults want to venture into NC. Any suggestions as to where we could start and finish that would not be too much on the group? We are mostly intermediate hikers and some of the early sections in NC state they are strenuous. I'd really appreciate opinions. We are taking a van so we'll need shuttle help.