Project 327 : The Grand Explorer’s Crown is one American veteran’s attempt to be the first to climb;
The Appalachian Trail (Jul ‘23), Pacific Crest Trail (Jul ‘25), Continental Divide Trail (Mar ‘26)
3 :
The North and South Poles (TBD)
2 :
Denali (Jun ‘16), Kilimanjaro (Jun ‘17), Aconcagua (Jan ‘21), Carstensz (Oct ‘24), Everest (May‘25), Vinson (TBD), Elbrus (TBD)
7 :
David Phillips
P327:GEC athlete
Project 327 (includes 3 thru hikes, 2 poles, and 7 summits) aka the blending of the Messner’s Explorer’s Grand Slam and the Triple Crown of Hiking to become the Grand Explorer’s Crown, as I named it. It is the culmination of over a decade of planning, dreaming, and grinding to realize. I retired from the U.S. Navy with over 25 years of active service and can now devote all of my time and energies to family and the project.
I am also an avid trail ultra runner, climbing enthusiast and mediocre painter. I teach Project Management Professional courses in my spare time and am working towards my Doctorate in Physical Therapy.
project 327 gear
It all began with a crazy idea in 2011. I was at Whidbey Island WA and on a clear day you could see Mt Baker and even Rainier in the distance. This began an obsession with the mountains and endurance trail running/hiking. Whatever you’re stoked on, this gear will bring you closer to the summit & finish line in Grand Explorer’s Crown style.
Support Grand explorers crown and disabled american veterans
Portions of every donation in support of my project will go directly to Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Each year DAV helps more than a million veterans, from newly transitioned to civilians, to long term care and support.
My wife and I have 45+ years of combined service throughout the Global War on Terror and continue to support our brothers and sisters continued needs. Please support as available here or directly at DAV.ORG
