Full trip report at: https://www.ironbull.org/blog/nct-wi-fkt (note I am still writing it so the link will work in a couple of days)
With some experience under my belt from last fall's unsupported FKT on the Superior Hiking Trail, I confidently departed from the Western Terminus of the North Country Trail, Wisconsin Section on Friday, April 13, 2024 13:13 to run back to my car that I left 215 miles away. I had dialed in my packing list, with only an 18 pound pack with everything I planned to need over the next 3.5-4.0 days for another unsupported attempt. Ironically, the last time I had been at this terminus I was by myself, giving myself a 50/50 shot of finishing due to my inexperience!
The trail was far less technical than I had expected so I banked a lot of time. I was thankful to be done with the extended road section (all but one mile through Pattison State Park during miles 8-54), but covered a lot of ground about 87 miles in the first 24 hours The western trails which were fast and dry from to Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway to the Drummond Ski Trails (about miles 54-126). But as I moved east the trails became soft and less used and resulted in a lot of route finding. Following the trail became challenging, especially with lower cognitive function and during darkness. I am thankful I had daylight navigating Feldcher Creek to a bit past the logging site near the Gold Mine Campsite (miles 188-193). I was able to make up some of my lost time on the final trail miles which were flat two track followed by 11 road miles.
The clear skies resulted in higher daytime temperatures and lower nighttime temperatures than forecasted prior to my departure. With it being spring, the mix of cold temperatures and cold ground, I ended up only sleeping for about 25 minutes although I attempted to sleep on five occasions. With the exception of Pattison State Park, I only encountered six hikers over the remaining trail miles. I wonder if I ran more miles or spoke more words over the 3 days?