morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2016-05-18
From: Wise Shelter Campsite

To: Dickey Gap
Miles today: 16.0

Awake at 8.00 and on the trail for 9.30.Downhill hike for through Little Wilson Creek Wilderness then steady climbing up Stone Mountain.Stopped at Old Orchard Shelter for a quick snack.Weather looking ominous with rain forecast.Virginia so far has been a mixture of 'green tunnel' and open meadows with good views, more enjoyable.Mountain Dew and Honey Dew providing Trail Magic at Fox Creek.Heavy rain came down about 14.00 and before I managed to get my waterproofs on I got totally soaked so decided to carry on hiking until I got to a decent camping area, passed Comers Creek Falls on the way.Arrived at Dickey Gap, completely saturated where there was a shuttle going to Troutdale Baptist Church for Hikers Picnic with 'all you can eat' Buffet, very welcome!Had a hot shower there and put on much needed dry clothes.Buffet was really good with plenty of choices on offer.Heavy rain predicted tonight so set up my hammock inside the pavilion, under cover.Planning to stop in Marion on Friday for my next resupply and possible 'Zero Day'.
Date: 2016-05-19
From: Dickey Gap

To: Partnership Shelter Campsite
Miles today: 13.9
Weather: light rain

Packed away by 7.45 and shuttled back to Dickey's Gap, on the trail for 8.30.Dull and overcast day with threat of rain later this afternoon.Predictable hiking with few meadows today.Arrived at Partnership Shelter at 16.00 and set up my hammock.Went across to Mt. Rogers Visitor Centre and bought some Pepsi and chocolate.Weighed myself fully clothed at 155lbs compared to 174lbs before the trail, loss of 19lbs!Shuttle from Visitors Centre at 8.45 in the morning 50 cents to Marion for resupply and laundry.
Date: 2016-05-20
From: Partnership Shelter Campsite

To: Marion Town EconoLodge
Miles today: 0.0

Woke at 6.30 and was across at Mt. George Visitor Centre for 9.00 shuttle into town.Booked in EconoLodge Motel for the night.Taking a 'Zero Day' today for rest, resupply and laundry.Went to a Mexican Restaurant and had a few Mexican beers and then to Walmart for resupplies.Back to Motel for a peaceful evening before returning to the trail tomorrow at Partnership Shelter.
Date: 2016-05-21
From: Partnership Shelter

To: Pasture North End Canpsite
Miles today: 13.5
Weather: moderate rain

Awake at 8.00.Down for breakfast at 9.45.Weather not looking to good, dry at the moment but forecast rain later in the day.Hitchhiked back to the trail from Marion and started at 12.00.Mixture of rain showers and occasional sun, waterproof clothing on and off, nuisance.Short climb and then downhill for there at of the day, very slippery underfoot after all the heavy rain we've had, saw one nasty accident when a young girl hiker went over on her ankle.Stopped at Lindamood School where there was plenty of 'Trail Magic'.Went for a Mexican meal in Atkins, none of the two restaurants sold beer, most disappointing.Hiked to Pasture Borth End Campsite where I set up camp at 21.00.
Date: 2016-05-22
From: Pasture North End Canpsite

To: Knot Maul Branch
Miles today: 13.5
Weather: overcast clouds

Last night it rained fairly heavily.Awake at 7.00 and on the trail for 8.30.Overcast start to the day and still very slippery underfoot due to the recent heavy rainfall.Steady progress with fairly steep climbs but was rewarded with some good views from Gullion Mountain and the meadows near Tilson Gap.Passed the 1/4 distance markerThe sun appeared early afternoon so decided to take a siesta for an hour.Steep climb up Brushy Mountain before passing Knot Maul Branch Shelter and hiked another 0.6 miles to Knot Maul Branch just before the bridge and set up camp.Weather nice and cool this evening but no rain today!
Date: 2016-05-23
From: Knot Maul Branch

To: Stealth camping at 572.4
Miles today: 13.2

Late start today, on the trail at 11.00.Weather overcast and cool.Steady ups and downs before climbing 2,000 ft. Walked along Chestnut Ridge with good views from Ridgeline.Stopped at Chestnut Knob Shelter for a bite to eat before continuing over Garden Mountain.Continued another 2 miles before making camp by the side of the trail.Quick feed and into my hammock, temperature dropping.Forgot to get water so no hot dinner tonight.
Date: 2016-05-24
From: Stealth camping @ 572.4

To: US 52 Big Walker Motel Bland
Miles today: 17.5
Weather: scattered clouds

Awoke at 8.00 to brilliant sunshine, bounced out of my hammock and was back on the trail for 9.00.Braekfast of Honeybun as had no water for oats.Made my way along the ridge with a steady hike till I reached Jenkins Shelter where I had lunch.Hard hiking today as the temperature is in the 80's.Plenty of climbing until I got to Laurel Creek where the trail levelled out before entering US 52 and hitchhiked to Bland where I resupplies with a case of beer before booking in at Big Walker Motel where I had a few beers, showered and watched TV.
Date: 2016-05-25
From: US 52 Bigwalker Motel Bland

To: Jenny Knob Shelter
Miles today: 11.9
Weather: clear sky

Up at 7.00, showered, packed my gear away and having 1/2 lb burger and large milkshake at Dairy Queen before heading back to the trail.Hitched a lift back to the trail.Another hot day, in 80's at 11.00 but was fortunately shaded by the trees.Saw my first bears on the trail today, mother and cub, the mother was in the woods about 50 yards away and the cub was crossing the trail path in front of me, think the bears were more surprised than me as they ran off deeper into the woods.Passed the 600 mile marker close to Jenny Knob Shelter.Set up camp at about 18.00, enjoyable hike today.
Date: 2016-05-26
From: Jenny Knob Shelter

To: Dismal Falls
Miles today: 8.3
Weather: overcast clouds

Awoken at 7.30 by the birds singing in the trees.First time I've used my summer over-quilt and was warm and comfortable, time to send my winter sleeping bag to my friend Mike when i get the opportunity, won't be needed until I get a lot further north later on the trail.Temperature in the high 70's with high humidity.Nice easy hike to Trent's Grocery for a burger/drinks and do my laundry.Hot afternoon in the 80's, expecting more of the same!Returned to the trail and a detour of 0.3 miles to Dismal Falls where I set up camp for the night.Fell asleep in my hammock watching the stars in the sky and the sound of the falls.Having such a wonderful experience on the trail with hopefully many more to come.
Date: 2016-05-27
From: Dismal Falls

To: Woods Hole Hostel
Miles today: 13.4
Weather: overcast clouds

Awake at 9.00 to another glorious sunny day, not a cloud in the sky and only the sound of the falls a few yards away, no alarm clocks needed on the trail!Packed up and on the trail for 11.00.After a steady climb the trail leveled out considerably and I stopped at Wapiti Shelter (where 2 young girl hikers were murdered in 1981) for a quick lunch.The temperature was in the low 80's with high humidity as I hiked 2,500ft up to 4,000ft before arriving at Sugar Run Road where I hiked 0.5 miles to Woods Hole Hostel.Both my heels have been giving me discomfort for the last few days, probably from hiking to many miles.Booked in at the hostel for camping and dinner.After setting up my hammock enjoyed a wholesome home cooked meal with all locally grown produce and local Amish produce, most welcome after all the trail food over the last few weeks.The hostel is run by Neville and her husband Michael who place emphasis on sustainable living through farming, beekeeping, organic gardening, yoga and massage therapy.A stop over at this hostel is highly recommended, by far the best on the trail so far.A hard day's hiking today but rewarding, looking forward to a good nights sleep tonight (21.00 hikers midnight!)can hear the sound of the river flowing by in the distance.
Date: 2016-05-28
From: Woods Hole Hostel

To: Woods Hole Hostel
Miles today: 0.0

Awoke at 7.00 to another bright and sunny day, happy days again!My sore heels are causing me concern so I've decided to take a few days off the trail to recover and Woods Hole Hostel is the ideal place to rest up.Had a full body massage in the afternoon which eased my aches and pains, short rest before going to Kal-Bee Korean Restaurant in Pembroke, first time I've been for a Korean meal and probably the last! Definitely an acquired taste, all part of the experience of travelling.
Date: 2016-05-29
From: Woods Hole Hostel

To: Woods Hole Hostel
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

Awake at 7.30 and breakfast at 8.00.Shuttled into Walmart Pearisburg for resupply, looking at getting back on the trail tomorrow as feet feel a lot better after the rest.Thinking I may not have bruised heels after all, pain maybe just a result of to many miles hiking in the previous few days.Lazy afternoon in hammock spent reading.Weather cooler today, feels good.
Date: 2016-05-30
From: Woods Hole Hostel

To: Pearisburg, Va
Miles today: 11.1
Weather: few clouds

Awake at 7.00 to a glorious sunny day and had breakfast at 8.00.Packed away my gear after having two 'Zero Days' at Woods Hole Hostel where I rested hoping that my sore heels recovered.Feeling a lot better and was back on the trail by 11.00, a steady climb and then the trail levelled off with good views from Pearis Mountain of New River and Pearisburg in the distance.My left heel began to hurt so I stopped at Docs Knob Shelter to apply some first aid which seemed to alleviate the pain.There was then a 3 mile descent into Pearisburg which was very demanding on my feet, grateful to get to the road at the bottom where I was met by 'Trail Magic' from Max and his wife (who complimented me on my multi-coloured beard!) which was greatly received by all the hikers arriving there.Had a bite to eat and a drink before Max gave us all a lift into town.Booked in at Holiday Motor Lodge and then to a Chinese Restaurant opposite.Back to the motel to rest my feet for tomorrow's ascents.
Date: 2016-05-31
From: Pearisburg, Va

To: Campsite at 643.1
Miles today: 8.5
Weather: overcast clouds

Awoke at 7.00 after a surprisingly good nights sleep at the motel.Back on the trail at 11.00 which began with a steady steep climb for the first 5 miles and then levelled off when I reached Rice Field Shelter.Some nice views from Peter's Mountain.A 1.5 mile hike to the campsite where I set up camp, still hot at 18.30.No problems with my heels today, hopefully all sorted.Hot sunny day as normal with high humidity, will not be commenting on weather unless major changes.
Date: 2016-06-01
From: Campsite at 643.1

To: The Captain's Place
Miles today: 12.2
Weather: clear sky

Awake at 7.00, light rain overnight.Quick breakfast of oatmeal and honey then packed away and on the trail for 9.15.Nice steady have hike except for all the rocks/stones on the path which I'm wary of.Nearly walked on a snake, fortunately it was a non poisonous Garter Snake, then spotted a turtle crossing the trail.Slight incline and then downhill to Pine Swamp Shelter where I topped up my water and had a quick snack.Just over a mile later came to 'The Captain's' place which was accessed by means of a zip line, good fun crossing.Set up camp in the large garden and grabbed a few free cans of soda, made dinner and then relaxed by the creek.Thoroughly enjoying myself even though the hot weather/humidity is stamina sapping.
Date: 2016-06-02
From: The Captain's Place

To: War Spur Hostel
Miles today: 11.5

Awake at 7.00, breakfast and back on the trail for 9.15.Zip lined from The Captains place and immediate began climbing.Took a quick break at Bailey Gap Shelter and then the trail levelled out.Hard climbing this morning before reaching VA 613 where there was 'Trail Magic' provided by off trail section hikers 'Daisy and Donald Duck'.Burgers and ice cold drinks were provided, really appreciated the gesture and time given by 'Trail Magic'.Great views from Wind Rock before a steady descent down accompanied by a light shower to War Spur Shelter where I set up camp.Good day made better by the 'Trail Magic'.
Date: 2016-06-04
From: Stealth Camping at 677.9

To: Audie Murphy Monument at 690.1
Miles today: 12.2
Weather: overcast clouds

Awake at 7.00 to another glorious day, packed and back on the trail for 8.30.Had no water so had to hike to Sarver Hollow Shelter which was 0.4 mile off the trail and then another 0.2 mile for water, all downhill and then back uphill to the trail.Hiked along the ridge crest of Sinking Creek Mountain which had good views to the south east from the rocky outcrops.Passed Bruisers Knob, dozens of huge stone cairns for about a mile supposedly built by early farmers.Downhill hike to Niday Shelter where I had a quick snack and a short rest.A pleasant two miles over a couple of footbridges crossing Craig Creek before a totally exhausting two and half mile stiff climb up Brush Mountain which because of the high temperature and humidity was the most challenging climb of the trail so far.Another mile to the Audie Murphy Monument (most decorated American soldier of World War II.)Set up camp about 100 yards from the monument and made dinner before climbing exhaustively in to my hammock.At 19.00 the loudest thunderstorms and most frightening lightening I've ever heard started and lasted for about 30 minutes and then continued most of the evening.
Date: 2016-06-05
From: Audie Murphy Monument at 690.1

To: Four Pines Hostel
Miles today: 11.7
Weather: light rain

Had a very disturbed night with all the thunder and lightening so felt very tired when I woke this morning.Yesterday really took it out of me and I'm probably not drinking enough water, together with poor nutrition my energy levels have dropped.On the trail at 9.00 with a nice steady downhill hike to Trout Creek, then it was all uphill for about 5 miles up Cove Mountain and I was really struggling with fatigue.Took a 0.1 mile detour to Dragons Tooth stone monolith which was worth seeing and offered good views west.The downhill hike was really challenging with giant boulders which had to be climbed down using metal rungs which have been installed in difficult parts, more like mountaineering than hiking.Passed 700 miles on the descent.Eventually arrived at VA 624 Newport Rd and hiked about 0.3 mile to Four Pines Hostel which is a really friendly place.On arrival a beer was thrust into my hand by another hiker and then a free shuttle took me to The Homeplace Restaurant which was all you can eat for $15.00, highly recommended.On the return shuttle stopped at Catawba Grocery store for a case of beer before returning to the hostel for relaxation time.Thought yesterday was a hard hike but today was harder and was glad to hang my hammock in the barn and get some well deserved sleep.Decided to take a 'Zero Day' tomorrow to allow my body to recover and plan my strategy for the rest of the trail.
Date: 2016-06-06
From: Four Pines Hostel

To: Four Pines Hostel
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

Awoken by the roosters at the break of dawn and was up and about by 7.00 on my 'Zero Day'.All clothes washed and had a much needed shower.Spent the day relaxing, sorting my rucksack and a spot of fishing with no catches.Nice to enjoy a rest day, weather has been very warm and tomorrow will be a 12 mile hike including Mcaffee Knob a rock outcrop which is one of the most photographed features on the A.T.Hopefully will arrive in Daleville in a couple of days where there are two breweries, Three Li'l Pigs and Flying Mouse Brewery both of which have local brewed beer. Looking forward to the ales as all I've had to taste recently are American lager beers (not the best).¢A traveller without observation is a bird without wings"
Date: 2016-06-07
From: Four Pines Hostel

To: Canpbell Shelter
Miles today: 10.3
Weather: scattered clouds

Awake at 7.30 to a nice sunny day, packed and back on the trail at 9.00.Had a really good time at Four Pines, rested and fed, just what I needed.Nice easy hike today, steady climb up Catawba Mountain, lunch at Catawba Mountain Shelter before arriving at McAfee Knob which afforded fabulous views to the west.Hiked down to Campbell Shelter where I found a quiet spot to set up my hammock.Body feels good, feet are fine and will be in Daleville on Thursday for craft ales.
Date: 2016-06-08
From: Canpbell Shelter

To: Daleville
Miles today: 15.4
Weather: clear sky

Awake at 6.00 and on the trail at 9.00, sunny but very windy on the ridge.Nice steady hiking up to Tinker Cliffs with good views west.Stopped at Lamberts Meadow Shelter for lunch (shelter closed for camping due to bear activity) and then tough climbing over Hay Rock with difficult ridge before hiking into Daleville.Booked into Howard Johnson Express and then down to Three Li'l Pigs for dinner and beer.
Date: 2016-06-09
From: Daleville

To: Dalevile
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

Decided to have another 'Zero Day' today, this time in a town.Lazy morning, light lunch at Four Li'l Pigs and then relaxed in the afternoon.An evening visit to Flying Mouse Brewery and back to the hotel for a couple of hours catching up on home news and a early night before an early start back on the trail tomorrow.Decided to keep my yeard beard at least until I get home or maybe forever!
Date: 2016-06-10
From: Dalevile

To: Blackhorse Gap Stealth Camping
Miles today: 13.6
Weather: clear sky

Booked out of Howard Johnson Motel and back on the trail at 10.30.Hot day high 80's.Nice steady climb out of Daleville then stopped at Fullhard Knob Shelter for quick snack.Rest of the day was fairly easy before arriving at Blackhorse Gap where there was 'Trail Magic' of hot dogs and soda which was most welcome.Set up hammock and soon to sleep.
Date: 2016-06-11
From: Blackhorse Gap Stealth Camping

To: Cove Mountain Shelter
Miles today: 11.4
Weather: few clouds

Good nights sleep and awake at 8.30, packed and back on the trail by 10.00.Nice steady climb in the morning, temperature in the low 90's.A few nice views along the way including Sharp Top and Flat Top Mountain. Arrived at Cove Mountain Shelter where I made dinner and set up camp.Whilst in Daleville I visited the outfitters where I purchased a top of the range boot insoles to give me added comfort, resulting two days later with big blisters on each heel! Been in agony all day today, should have left well alone.
Date: 2016-06-12
From: Cove Mountain Shelter

To: Middle Creek Campground
Miles today: 3.2
Weather: clear sky

Awake at 8.00 after a good 12 hours sleep, packed and back on the trail for 9.00, another hot day.My blistered heels still hurting so after 3.2 miles decided to take a 'Nero Day' at Middle Creek Campsite where I booked in for the night, set up my hammock and then had a cooked breakfast.Chilled out by the pool in the afternoon followed by double cheeseburger and chips/sodas for dinner.Just before retiring to my hammock I passed a group of female hikers who offered me a cold beer, not wishing to be unsociable I duly accepted and sat chatting for a while before excusing myself and fell asleep to the sound of a small stream close by.Enjoyed a nice restful day.Hopefully my blisters should have heeled sufficiently enough to allow me back on the trail tomorrow.Keep reminding myself I'm on holiday as well as hiking the A.T. and to stop and enjoy the journey.
Date: 2016-06-14
From: Middle Creek Canpground

To: Cornelius Creek Shelter
Miles today: 8.7
Weather: broken clouds

Awake at 9.00, packed my gear and had a fried breakfast before being shuttled back to the trail at 11.00.Mostly climbing all day before stopping at Bryant Ridge Shelter to check my foot dressings.Arrived at Cornelius Creek Shelter at 16.00.Would have liked to have gone to the next shelter at Thunder Hill Shelter but was closed due to bear activity.Set up camp, had dinner and chatted to some SOBO hikers before retiring to bed early."I haven¢t had any day that has been entirely bad, and I¢ve yet to have a day when I wished I was back at my job".
Date: 2016-06-15
From: Cornelius Creek Shelter

To: Matts Creek Shelter
Miles today: 17.7
Weather: scattered clouds

Awake at 8.00, breakfast and packed my gear. On the trail for 9.30.Good views west from Black Rock Overlook then steady uphill climbing up to FFA tower.Mainly downhill for the rest of the way down to Marble Spring campsite where I had intended to camp until I saw a warning note regarding aggressive bear behaviour.Decided to head for Matts Creek Shelter where I arrived at about 7.00 and set up camp.Didn't bother with any dinner as I was absolutely shattered from the days hike, over 17 miles with very sore feet, hopefully they will feel better tomorrow.
Date: 2016-06-16
From: Matts Creek Shelter

To: Punchbowl Shelter
Miles today: 12.7
Weather: scattered clouds

Awake at 8.30, packed, breakfast and on the trail for 10.30.Trail started off nice and flat with a walk over James River footbridge, which is the longest foot-use bridge on the AT.Filled up my water bottles and then began a 4 mile climb in temperatures of 90 plus, good views from Little Rocky and Big Rocky Row.By this time I had drank most of my water due to the heat and was getting worried that I may run out.The trail then levelled out for 2 miles before climbing up to 3,500 ft. By this time I was so hot and dehydrated so I decided to rest in the shelter for a while until the temperature dropped.Eventually made it to Punchbowl Shelter after literally drinking my last mouthful of water.Set up camp, had dinner and ready for a good nights sleep after what was a very demanding and draining hike in very hot weather.Closed my eyes and the inevitable thunder and lightening came with torrential downpour for about 2 hours.
Date: 2016-06-17
From: Punchbowl Shelter

To: Three Springs Hostel
Miles today: 11.3
Weather: broken clouds

Awake at 8.00, started to pack my gear away and the rain came down, decided to wait for it to stop as I've only a 11 mile day with fairly easy terrain.Finally back on the trail at 11.45 after the rain eased up.Nice easy hike for 5 miles before a 5 mile climb past Brown Mountain Creek Shelter and finally arrived at US 60 where I phoned Three Springs Hostel who picked me up.Food, shower and washing done.Weather was overcast all day which I was grateful for after the last couple of very hot days.Feet feeling a lot better today.Passed 800 miles today.
Date: 2016-06-18
From: Three Springs Hostel

To: Seeley-Woodworth Shelter
Miles today: 14.0
Weather: clear sky

Awake at 6.30, breakfast at 7.00.Shuttled back to US 60 and was back on the trail by 10.00.A fairly steep 3 mile hike up to Bald Knob with good views.Whilst climbing "Sweet Bee" & "Lovely" were hiking southbound with "Trail Magic" food bags which were greatly accepted by all northbound hikers, thanks very much to you both.Nice steady hike through grassy meadows which made a pleasant change after all the "green tunnels".Weather was perfect for hiking with a nice gentle breeze.Arrived at Seeley-Woodworth Shelter where I set up camp.A good days hiking with varied scenery and good views.
Date: 2016-06-19
From: Seeley-Woodworth Shelter

To: Tye River Suspension Bridge
Miles today: 11.4
Weather: clear sky

Awake at 8.00 and back on the trail by 9.30.Fairly flat hiking to start with, took 0.1 mile detour to scramble to the top of Spy Rock which afforded 360 degree vistas, worth the climb.Made my way to The Priest Shelter where I had some lunch.There was then a 4 mile 3,000 ft hike down to Tye River suspension bridge.After a fairly hard day found a spot by the river and set up camp.Inspected my feet which had been giving me trouble all day to discover I have blisters under my blisters, very painful!Tomorrow I have a 6 mile climb first thing, hoping to get to the Devils Backbone Brewpub before closing time.