Began at Lakeshore Trail west terminus (Fontana Dam side) at 8:00am on Saturday, April 22, 2023 along with Josh Rogers and Franklin Baker. Weather was perfect, had rained the night before so cooled temps a few degrees. Trail was easy to follow, all intersections marked. Only a couple blowdowns to navigate across the 35 miles. Saw maybe 10 or so hikers throughout the entire trail, 1 salamander, and 3 snakes. Hiked the ups, ran the downs and flats. Fairly steady/even pace entire run except for a few miles early on with stomach issues. Stopped to filter/refill water 2-3 times total. Plenty of locations to get water. Carried all food/calories with us. Made it through the tunnel and to the Lakeshore Trail east terminus (Bryson City side) in 7:51:44. A beautiful day in the woods soaking up God's creation with friends.