morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2013-03-11
From: Low Gap Shelter

To: Cheese factory site
Miles today: 13.4
Weather: overcast clouds

Tried to make it from Low Gap to Tray Mountain shelter but had to hold up about 2 miles short due to a down pour. The hike today was tough with many climbs and wet weather. I got a free sauna but didn't know I was supplying the heat. I walked in rain gear all day up until the last few minutes. Once I took off my rain coat and put on gloves it started to pour. Needles to say I got drenched. Clever Girl, Dump Truck, Appollo and Granite helped me with tent set up. Thanks guys. Holding up in the tent isn't bad except all my gear is soaked. Thank God for dry clothes. The other problem is I was about .2 of mile from water so no hot chocolate or hot beef stew. Tonight is cheese sticks and gorp. I have a couple of swallows to get me going tomorrow. Hope the rain lets up. After 10 miles tomorrow we have to hitch a ride 11 miles into town. The first part of the day I leap frogged with Granite all the way from Low Gap to Blue Mountain shelter. Once there we had a quick bite and hooked up with Clever Girl, Dump Truck and Appolo. The trail was eerie yet magnificant with the fog and green moss and narrow bush lined trails. It is a lot easier to hike with a group but solitude is good also. My hiking partner Pilgrim and I have just about settled into a rhythm. He starts out quick and climbs fast. I take time to get a second wind and descend much quicker. In the end we end up together. The trail is great for making friends. That's all for now. My headlight batteries died and my spare batteries are in a tree. No way am I going out there. Besides it is 7:15 and past my bed time. Wish I had cell service. I miss every one back home. Good night and may God watch over you.
Date: 2013-03-12
From: Cheese factory site

To: Dicks Creek Gap
Miles today: 13.0
Weather: overcast clouds

We awoke to a howling cold wind with everything we owned soaked. We headed to Dicks Creek about 13 miles away so we could go to Hiawassee, GA. Luckily last night we were about 200 feet below the freeze line. At the start of the hike we passed through a forest of birch and oak all with ice falling from the branches. With the wind the ice gave quite a beating at times but what an experience. As we hit lower elevations we walked through mountain laurel which enclosed around us. Just like walking through a tunnel. When we hit Tray Mountain shelter I finally got water and had my dinner for breakfast. Boy did that freeze dried beef stew taste good! Pilgrim and I started out hiking with our new friends Clever Girl, Dump Truck, Appolo and Granite. Hiking with a group makes the climbs alot easier and more fun. Although we all separated for the most of the day we joined up and made it to Dicks Creek together. We weren't at the road more than a couple of minutes until the first car coming by gave Pilgrim, myself and Dump Truck a ride. Right behind us was Clever Girl, Appolo and Granite. Both cars took us directly to our hotel the Holiday Inn. Pilgrim and I ate at a place called Daniels and feasted on some really great food. I especially liked the pineapple pudding. Similar to banana pudding. After dinner it was washing, shopping, and drying out gear. All in all it was a fantastic day. Tomorrow we start climbing out of the gap. Well it is 11:00 well past lights out. That's all for now.
Date: 2013-03-13
From: Dicks Creek Gap

To: Muskrat Creek Shelter
Miles today: 11.8
Weather: light rain

This morning we got a ride from Meraphor who was taking her kids to school. Her brother hiked the AT in 1996 (Troll). It is amazing how many lives the AT has touched. After dropping off her kids she drove us 11 miles out of town right to the trail head. Once hiking we started climbing in the bitter cold. Just as I was starting to really suffer I was greeted by the comforting embrace of mountain laurel. The warm and sheltering tunnels down the trail it provides has been my protecter for several days. The first thing I noticed was the change in the rocks and fauna. Less granite was on the trail and more quartz was to be seen. The trail mostly covered by brown leaves was suddenly covered in pine needles providing a quiet and soft tread. On the sheltered side of the hill without the wind it was quite pleasant even if you could see your breath. As you approached the ridges and changed hill sides the winds were steady and strong bringing cold frigid air from the depths of the shaded forest. Finally we reached the ga/nc border which was the highlight of the day. It only took 4 hours to reach. It would have been great to finish GA with Clever Girl, Dump Truck, Appolo and Granite as well as Mary(flute). We have traveled with them ever since Springer. Immediately leaving GA about a 100 yards in NC the weather changed drastically for the worse. We were battered by 30 mile an hour winds that were frigid for the remaining 4 miles of mostly climbing. Just when my spirit was about to be broken God provided a grove of rhodies which embraced us providing much needed shelter. The mountain laurels are becoming scarce as the rhodies are becomimg more abundant. We started the day fresh but the elements and terrain took its toll as we limped and staggered into the shelter. Tonight the temps are in the teens. As I look back on the day the solitude provided time to reflect on how many good people there are and how grand mother earth really is. Although I enjoy walking solo I do miss the interaction of a group. We sing songs, discuss movies and actors and have a great time. It makes the miles and climbimg less daunting. I am just about to freeze so zipping up and hunkering down. Good night all, I miss you a ton.
Date: 2013-03-14
From: Muskrat Creek Shelter

To: Carter Gap
Miles today: 12.5
Weather: few clouds

Last night was extremly cold. We awoke to ice on everything including the inside of the tent. A lesson learned, if you need water up here get it in the morning. I could not use my camel back until almost noon even though I slept with it. Did I mention it was cold?! We started out at 7:30 and hiked until 3:00. I started out wearing a capilene tee, a mid weight thermal top, a long sleeve shirt, a fleece jacket, a down jacket and rain coat. After 2 hours of hiking I was warm but not hot. Around noon I stripped down to the normal tee, long sleeve and fleece. The terrain was typical up and down with deep tunnels of rhodies. The many streams we crossed were partially frozen. I took a hard fall on a ice covered granite slope but wasn't hurt. Along the trail ice blooms out of the mud like a flower. It is really hard to describe all the beauty of the trail. As I walk all day I think of a million tnings to write but by days end I am too tired to remember. Life in the shelter is very enjoyable as we share our experiences. My most embarrassing moment was getting lost on my midnight pee. All was fine until my head lamp went out. Boy was it dark. After stumbling and getting wacked by limbs and bushes I finally hit ground that didn't crinkle when you walk. Well I managed to get back to the shelter and into the right bag. It is early to bed and a 15 mile push to Franklin. Blisters on the side of my right heel are becoming a concern. Good night, it is 7:00 and lights out.
Date: 2013-03-15
From: Carter Gap

To: Winding Stair Gap to Franklin, NC
Miles today: 15.9

We hit the trail at first light 7:20. The trail was very easy and it was nice to see the sun's rays bathe the surrounding forest. The trail started out in real long tunnels of rhodies. At one point there was a break in the foilage and we had a fantastic view of the mountains. I counted at least 25 peaks peering above the morning haze. Unfortunately for pictures we were looking directly into the sun. Because of the many climbs we were greeted by several unofficial sunrises, a great perk. Along the trail I did a little ice skating. I think I scored about a 5 for my double axel. At least it was artistic and Pilgrim was entertained. Once we hit Betty Creek about 2 hours into the day the trail turned rocky and steep up to the Albert Mountain fire tower. At times the trail was only a few feet across with a sheer drop off. You didn't notice it until the vegetation cleared. Hats off to the trail builders. The climb then became steeper as we reached the top. Now no more trekking poles, just grab rocks, bushes, trees or anything available to haul yourself up. Not a good place to lean backwards!!! There is a spectacular 360 view from the tower. It is also very cold and very windy. After the tower we descended for several hours. The temp was about 45 and just right. A little cooler would have been nice. Can you believe that! We finished the day dragging ourself up Winding Stair Gap. Quite a day and glad to be going into Franklin.
Date: 2013-03-16
From: Winding Stair Gap to Franklin, NC

To: Wayah Bald Shelter
Miles today: 11.0
Weather: broken clouds

Today's section seemed really hard. The highlight of the day was meeting Fresh Grounds again at about mi. 6. Fresh Grounds has been our support since Springer. He provides food and drink for all comers whether thru hiking or day hilking. Today he provided hot dogs, salad, soup, hot chocolate, coffee and fruit. He said he would se us again in Davenport just outside the Smokies. The best thing he provides is good conversation and cheer. He really understands the importance of support early on. We also reached Wayah Bald stone tower. From there you have a 360 view of all the mountain ranges and valleys. The real story for today was this morning. We walked a mile for breakfast then walked and jogged a mile or so for food supplies and made the 9:00 am shuttle out of town. The reason for the rush was our mishaps in Franklin. First we did our wash. Unfortunatly we didn't turn the dryer on. After waiting we found out and started the dryer again except it timed out. Now it is about 9:30 and we have missed the store and outfitter. Also we were out of quarters, the office is closed and all we have is soaking wet clothes. I mooched some coin from other hikers, a broke bunch, and we were on our way execpt we had locked ourselves out of our room. I was wearing rainpants barefoot and a down jacket with no tee shirt. Pilgrim is just as bad. Since the office won't answer the door I am about to knock on other hiker rooms for a place to sleep. Luckily pilgrim ran into the manager at 10:00 p.m. locking up the joint. Hence the hectic morning. Not the most relaxing town visit. On the bright side, my 16 ounce ribeye and baked potato was great. Tomorrow we are headed for Nantahala Outdoor Center another 17 miles away hoping to beat the approaching storm. All is good.
Date: 2013-03-17
From: Wayah Bald Shelter

To: Nantahala Outdoor Center
Miles today: 17.0

What would you do to stay warm and dry and a hot shower? Well Pilgram and I did a grueling 17 mi forced hike over and down some rugged terrain. The price paid was blistered and battered feet. The shower and bed priceless. Starting out we were going to do 10 mi to Wesser Bald shelter but changed destinations as we reached the shelter early. The trail for most the day was typical of the last couple. Lots of ups and downs through deep ravines full of barren trees and forest floor full of brown leaves. Upon reaching Wesser Bald we climbed the viewing tower and had a 360 degree view of the entire area. Quite breathtaking. While at the tower we recieved trail magic from two couples (Dave and Carol and Pat and Jim) who were day hiking. They had driven 2 hours from Nashville. Any way they were concerned about wieght loss and offered us their trail snacks (dark chocolate almonds and dark chocolate covered coconut). Also peppermint patties. What a great bunch of folks - many thanks to you. At the tower we ran into Zambia Squirrel, Weasel, Skunk Foot (wears one on a neclace) and Boot. Once leaving Wesser the vegatation was dramaticaly different. Now the trail was shrouded by thick groves of rhodies at least 11 feet tall and pine trees that carpet the trail in pine needles. What a relief to walk on. Next you noticed that the trees were covered in what I believe is Spanish moss. In the distance you could also hear the songs of various birds. But alas as we lowered in elevation once again we were engulfed in brown trees and leaves. What struck me most was the stillness in the air. After being buffeted for days the air was still as death. At one point the trail became so steep we once again found ourselves on the seat of our pants and sliding down rock faces. Just the opposite of Mt Albert a few days ago. After pushing hard we reached the NOC at 5:40 only to find everything closed at 5:00. With no rooms to be had we decided to hitch into Bryson about 15 mi. away. That is when we recieved our second trail magic of the day. Within 5 minutes a friendly guy named Steve asked us what we were doing and took us directly to our hotel. Way out of his way. He had to call his wife to say he would be late getting home. Thanks Steve we won't forget you. So here we are worn out and thinking about our first Zero day. Life is grand on the trail. By the way the last 6 mi. was a drop in elevation from 4627 to 1783. Our highest point was 5030. Uphill is so much better. When we head out we will have to climb back up.
Date: 2013-03-18
From: Nantahala Outdoor Center

To: Bryson City, N.C.
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: light snow

Missing the NOC could be a blessing in disguise. Staying at the Sleep Inn has been great. The rooms are great and the people very friendly. Our first night we just ate and called it a day. Breakfast incudes fruits, pastries, waffels, eggs, sausage, cereal, oatmeal and yoqurt. Today we resupplied in town, did laundry and kicked back. It rained hard all day so we just relaxed. I missed the company of our fellow hikers but the rest was what the body needed. I hope everyone got to shelter and stayed safe. Tomorrow we head back to the trail. Hopefully my feet will take me where I want to go. Good night all.
Date: 2013-03-19
From: Nantahala Outdoor Center

To: Locust Cove Gap
Miles today: 10.3

Started the morning with a great breakfast at the Sleep Inn, a wonderful place. Then came the challenge of hitching a ride from Bryson back to the NOC. At first it looked like it was going to take awhile but within a half hour we had our first ride. Two guys in a pick up took us the first 5 mi. It was darn cold sitting in the back of that pickup!! Within 5 minutes we were picked up and taken directly to the NOC. After purchasing a new food bag to replace my rodent chewed one we were on our way again at 9:00. The trail out of the NOC starts out climbing immediately. We climbed for 5 and a half hours going from 1749 to 5062 ft. The view from the top was spectacular. We were able to look back down the mountain and see the NOC as well as the surrounding mountains. The trail then decended sharply dropping to 3690 in a little over a mile. On the ascent the trail was rugged, full of rockslides, blow down, and what Clever Girl named AT diarrhea. That is a mixture of rotting leaves, mud and water. On the decent the trail was very narrow and it seemed the rhodies were trying to nudge you off the side. At camp there is an odd collection of thru hikers, college kids on an outdoor leadership training, and a boyscout troop! Our tents are actually inches to a few feet apart. Not the typical setting. Tonight is going to be cold so I am glad we made it to a lower elevation. It was amazing how beautiful today was after the terrible weather yesterday. Just 2 more days and we will be heading into the Smokies. Can't wait. Good night all.
Date: 2013-03-20
From: Locust Cove Gap

To: Cable Gap Shelter
Miles today: 11.8
Weather: overcast clouds

The trail was very pleasant from the start with a gentle climb and down hill. Right off the bat we were passed by a hiker walking barefoot because his heels hurt. Glad to say we met him later in the day with shoes. The first tough climb of the day was up Jacobs Ladder. It is a very difficult 700 hundred foot climb in .6 miles. Although it was about 35 degrees my body felt like it was a 100. The rest of the day provided fantastic views as we followed the ridges. Occasionally we went up and down ravine after ravine. For the California folks it reminded me of Glamis. Instead of sand the bowls were full of leaves. To our suprise we ran into Grayjay and Bear Charmer at Yellow Creek mountain road heading South. Grayjay is the outreach coordinator for ALDA (Appalachian Long Distance Hikers Association). We first met her at the Mount Albert tower where she took our pictures. Her friend Bear Charmer is section hiking trying to complete her second thru. I wish them the best (see pic in photos). The first shelter we came to we met Spider, Stretch, Snowman, Can't Wait and Not It. A real nice group. After a quick pit stop we moved on from Brown Fork Gap shelter to Cable Gap shelter. At one point in a very wet section the logs and rocks were covered in green. Although no water was to be found, passing over the rocks you could hear a running stream from deep below. It was very eerie yet soothing. Trees are starting to bud and there is more sounds of birds. Spring may be on it's way. We stopped for a morning snack around 10:30 but our snickers were still frozen! Along the trail we met TJ and Carl who were maintaing the trail. They do a great job and we all appreciate their effort. Tonight I am in the shelter with KFox, Northern from northern New York, Detour and Pilgrim. Also in camp is ChinMusic and Donnie. Donnie and Detour donated quarters for our laundry in Franklin. I finally made good on my promise to pay them back. It is good to meet up with folks we have met along the way. It is really cold tonight. Seven o'clock and lights out. Good night all.
Date: 2013-03-21
From: Cable Gap Shelter

To: Fontana Dam
Miles today: 5.4

Last night as I got up for a little visit to the woods I was met by a flurry of snow. It was a short visit! Needless to say it was cold when we got up. Around 9:30 when we stopped for breakfast it was 22 degrees. Fortunately I had 2 cups of water that wasn't frozen so Pilgrim and I had instant breakfast. The rest of the day we hiked without water as our camelbacks were frozen. Our goal was not to observe but get to town. Several hours from town we had great views of the dam and lake but it seemed like we would never get off that mountain. We climbed from 2900 ft to 3500 ft then dropped to 1800 ft. Once we hit the dam we called for a shuttle into town. As usual we feasted and resupplied and showered and showered and showered. Not in that order though! After a good meal tonight it is off to bed. Tomorrow we enter the Smokies! Thanks Jill and Joyce for providing support and sending our mail drops. A shout out to Ken and Audrey, Maria, Karen and Jeff, Troy and Christine, Nanette, John and Kim and of course our daughter Kelly ... thanks for watching out for my wife Jill. Good night all. Second day without phone service.
Date: 2013-03-22
From: Fontana Dam

To: Mollies Ridge Shelter
Miles today: 12.2
Weather: overcast clouds

Started the morning off with a hearty breakfast at the lodge then took a shuttle back to the trail. Our first stop was the Fontana Hilton, the most luxurious shelter on the trail. There we met our fellow hikers Donnie, Detour, Flipper, Northern, Kyle, Zambia Squirrel, Skunk Foot, Weasel, Boot, and Sarah. While there Pilgrim gave Sarah the name Oatmeal. He is excited about naming someone. We started the day at 1857 and ended at 4602. At times the trail was really steep but it was mostly just long. Pilgrim and I saw our first deer today. I actually walked right by it within a couple feet and mised it until Pilgrim spoke up. It sure wasn't bothered by us. We also came across trail maintenace workers Kay and Mike who provided trail magic of oranges, apples, and chocolates. They do a fantastic job maintaing the trail. At one point we came across a frozen rock face that looked like a frozen waterfall. The water running beneath the ice and glistening in the sun made the rock face look like a giant crystal. A pretty spectacular sight! Most notably is the change in the forest. What used to be a bunch of brown sticks, twigs and under brush are now turning shades of red and green and all with tiny buds. It would be intetesting to see the forest in a few more weeks. In the shelter tonight is Madison, Tracy McG, Rob and Shaggy. While having dinner we got to watch the snow flurries. At least we were under cover. Right now it is 7:00 and I am in bed watching it sleet. Hope I don't freeze tonight. Lights out. Good night all.
Date: 2013-03-23
From: Mollies Ridge Shelter

To: Silers Bald Shelter
Miles today: 17.5
Weather: overcast clouds

Today started out as a easy 12 mi. day. The plan was to go from Mollies Shelter to Derrick Nob. The weather was good so a real early start wasn't necessary. We started out walking into a heavy mist that gave the forest a surreal feeling. Unlike the day before the forest floor was damp and all our movements were muffled, no more crackling with each step. Robins were in abundance and the wet leaves made the forest floor a bright orange instead of bland brown. At the first shelter we came to we met Billy a ridge runner. He informed us that Saturday would have a heavy rain and Sunday a cold freeze. Given that, he advised we get over Clingmans Dome, the highest peak on the AT trail, before Monday. It is much better to climb and descend in the rain. After the freeze it would be treacherous. So much for a easy day. We had to make 17 mi. before dark! The rest of the day was a blur. We should of had great views but there was only about 100 to 200 feet visability all day. We finally made it to Silers Bald Shelter at 7:00 p.m. just before dark. At the shelter was ChinMusic, Shaggy, Rob, Pilgrim, and Bean. We ate our dinner and made our beds in the dark using our headlamps. We got to sleep all night listening to the rain pound on our tin and fiberglass roof. A group of high school hikers on their senior outing was also at the shelter and started a small fire which helped to keep us warm.
Date: 2013-03-24
From: Silers Bald Shelter

To: Newfound Gap into Gatlinburg, TN
Miles today: 12.5
Weather: overcast clouds

We awoke to a pounding rain and were reluctant to get of bed. But like they say, no pain no rain no Maine, so off we went. Luck was with us or God was watching out for us. The rain soon became a light drizzle for several hours then let up. Today's hike could have been one of the most scenic. We spent most of the day in a thick forest of pine trees. However, the trail was exceptionally technical covered in slick mud and ice. We actually were glad to walk in a trail that looked more like a stream. After reaching the top of Clingmans Dome, it took us about 3 hours to make 2 miles down hill. The problem was the trail of water was now solid ice. I fell 3 times-one fall being really hard. Fortunately I went straight back and my backpack took the hit. Without Pilgrim I couldn't get up. I looked like an upside down turtle! Since I was now lying in a trail with flowing water, I knew I was getting soaked. Pilgrim said, "Naw your pack is protecting you." I responded with, "Then what is this cold water going down the crack of my ass?" Oh well all turned out ok. All day was the same, take your eyes off the trail and any step could be a game changer. The forest was probably beautiful but our going was slow and slower. To make time we skipped most of our food breaks just trying to get off the mountain. We finally reached Newfound Gap at 4:00 o'clock where we were greeted by ChinMusic and his wife. After pictures we got a ride in about 5 minutes from a guy named Wes from Indiana. He was on vacation with his two young children. He took us directly to our motel. Thanks Wes and God bless you and your family. The rest of the day is boring. Doing laundry in the sink and drying out (no washer/dryer). It does not look like our clothes will dry in time to go resupply tonight. Looks like we will get a late start tomorrow. Oh well I am going to enjoy the warm mice free room tonight. Good night all and may God bless you.