morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2007-06-25
From: Palmerton, PA

To: Leroy A Smith Shelter
Miles today: 15.8
Weather: overcast clouds

Start - Finish Time: 7:30 - 3:40Low/High Temp: 63 / 71Last night was hot and stuffy with lots of snoring. Needless to say I did not get much sleep.Lehigh Gap is supposed to be the toughest climb up rocks south of NH. Well since I'd already had some experence with rock climbing the other day we both decided we didnt need to prove to ourselves any further that we could do this climb. So we chose to take the winter route around the rocks.Once on top of the ridge we found ourselves knee high in blueberry bushes. We spent at least half an hour picking berries and then continued to stop to pluck ripe berries as we walked.A little further on the devestation from the zinc smeltting is very apparent.Dealer Dan and his brother decided to sleep in the shelter so Sarah and I decided to tent. Another night of snoring I can not take.
Date: 2007-06-26
From: Leroy A Smith Shelter

To: Delaware Water Gap, PA/NJ
Miles today: 20.2
Weather: few clouds

Start - Finish Time: 5:50 - 5:30Low/High Temp: 68 / 90Once again town is calling. We decided to do the extra miles into town so we could spend the day eating.This section of trail is supposed to be a nasty rocky stretch and it was. Along with that it was very hot and humid.At Wind Gap Stubbles from Atlanta was being dropped off by his wife for a day of slack packing. She had drinks and snacks for trail magic. YEAH!We stopped for lunch at Kirkridge for lunch and filled up and cooled off with water from a spigot.Saw Toesocks 1&2 near Wind Gap.Here at the Church of the Mountain Hiker hostel has been Chico, Beatbox, Blue Skies, Jerry another aussie, Trail Dogs, Batman, Granite, Taripin Flyer, Dealer Dan, Sheep Head, and others I can't think of now.Stubbles from Atlanta and his wife took us to Strousburg for dinner and Wal-Mart.
Date: 2007-06-27
From: Delaware Water Gap, PA/NJ

To: Delaware Water Gap, PA/NJ
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

Yesterday the idea of taking a 0 day looked like it would work out ok since we weren't to be at our next mail drop until Thursday. But looking further at it today it puts us in Unionville for our next pickup on a Sunday. Oh well our feet really need a rest. Since my super feet are nearly 3 years old and a size7.5 and my boots are a size 9.5 I bought a new pair today. Hope it gives my feet better support.Well tomorrow I pick up my 4th backpack. Sure hopes it offers better comfort.Thunderstorms today and more expected tomorrow. Hard time getting our clothes to dry that we washed out in a bucket.
Date: 2007-06-28
From: Delaware Water Gap, PA/NJ

To: Mohican Outdoor Center
Miles today: 10.5
Weather: broken clouds

Start - Finish Time: 5:50 - 11:00Low/High Temp: 68 / 75Crossed the Delaware River into New Jersey first thing this morning.The rocks continue as we expected. Saw our first rattle snake as we came onto Camp Rd just before reaching the center.My new and 4th pack of the trip was waiting for me at the Mohican Outdoor Center office. The Gregory Tega pack fits well and feels good so far.At first we were going to tent but rain moved in so we stayed in the bunk house instead. Its a very nice place. Stubbles and his wife came by with ice cream and drinks. Tomorrow his wife heads back home to Atlanta and he will be back on the trail with full pack.Quite a few hikers slack pack now and then but Sarah and I have not done so so far.
Date: 2007-06-29
From: Mohican Outdoor Center

To: Brink Road Shelter
Miles today: 14.3
Weather: overcast clouds

Start - Finish Time: 5:45 - 2:30Low/High Temp: 64 / 81Slept great last night.By 10am we had been 7.5 miles when we came to the YMCA camp Ken Etiwa Pec where we got a soda and ate a snack and then moved on even though we were invited for lunch.As we approached the shelter we saw a bear. It did not seem to be afraid of us.At the shelter there were 3 young resident skunks that wandered about not bothered by our presence.The shelters in NJ all have metal bear boxes where we will be putting our food for the night.
Date: 2007-07-01
From: High Point Shelter

To: Memorial Park Unionville, NJ
Miles today: 7.1

Start - Finish Time: 6:35 - 10:00Low/High Temp: 53 / 77Easy day into town.The Mayor of this town offers shower and laundry at his house. He came to pick up Sarah and me in his Toyota Prius. We had a very nice visit with him and his dog while clothes were washing.I got in 2 pints of Ben and Jerrys.
Date: 2007-07-02
From: Memorial Park Unionville, NJ

To: Wawayanda Shelter
Miles today: 17.1
Weather: broken clouds

Start - Finish Time: 5:45 - 6:40Low/High Temp: 54 / 77We walked on board walks through marshlands where there were quite a number of locals out walking enjoying the beautiful day.A stop at Heaven Hill Farms just off the trail for ice cream and refill of water helped get us over the afternoon hump.
Date: 2007-07-03
From: Wawayanda Shelter

To: Wildcat Shelter
Miles today: 12.0
Weather: broken clouds

Start - Finish Time: 6:45 - 3:40Low/High Temp: 53 / 77Put the hiking poles away. Its time to climb. A number of times today I had to use my hands and arms to pull me up and over boulders.The creeks we expect to refill our water bottles are dry. Thank goodness thoughtfull people have put out jugs of water at some of the road crossings. Still we can not rely on this and we carry extra water just in case.Another opportuniy for ice cream at Bellvale Farms just a few hundred paces off the trail.
Date: 2007-07-05
From: Fingerboard Shelter

To: Holiday Inn Express Fort Montgomery, NY
Miles today: 14.7

Start - Finish Time: 5:35 - 3:45Low/High Temp:The climbs are getting longer and steeper and the rocks continue.There is so much to express about this hike so far but Im always too tired and this phone email only allows so many characters.We are doing well, just wish for more food and sleep.The trail took us through a museum and wildlife center. In front of the bear cage is the lowest point on the AT at 124 feet. We stopped long enough to take each others picture then continued on into Fort Montgomery where we picked up resupply at the PO.We noticed then that the power was off and was for a large area we were told. We walked on to the motel to find that wed have to wait for power to come back on before we could check in. We then walked up the road to find something to eat but everything was now closed. It was after 7 before we got into a room and after 9 by the time we ate pizza delivery. We got to bed very late.
Date: 2007-07-06
From: Holiday Inn Express Fort Montgomery, NY

To: Graymoor Christain Center
Miles today: 6.3

Start - Finish Time: Low/High Temp:This morning we took our time leaving town since it was only a 6.3 mile day plus the 1.5 mile from town to trail.We crossed over the Hudson River. It was so magnificant. And what a milestone. We have just over 8 weeks left. Nine more resupply boxes to be picked up. 779.4 more miles to go.The Keen boots I got in Harper Ferry have already fallen apart. I am hoping they hold out until Kent CT our next stop.Well Ive taken a cold shower, washed out underwear and waiting for yes more pizza to be delivered.It looks like it might storm yet this evening. So do I pull up stakes and move to the pavilion?Yesterday we were 34 miles from NY City when we crossed an interstate. Day after tomorrow we will have a chance to catch the metro into NY City since a stop is right on the AT. Since PA we have been very close to population, hearing traffic in the back ground all the time. My radio is picking up stations very well.Today we crossed two creeks that had water flowing. I hope as we continue north that water availability will no longer be a problem.The sun has gone behind a dark cloud. I guess I better get my things picked up and take cover.
Date: 2007-07-09
From: Telephone Pioneers Shelter

To: Mt Algo Lean-To
Miles today: 21.6

Start - Finish Time: Low/High Temp:Early on today I lost Sarah. She stopped to go to the bathroom and I continued a little ways further to do the same, taking my pack with me. She did not see me go off and I did not see her pass me. Because both of us were beyond tired we started assuming; she got mad and I got worried. We had only planned to go about 12 miles today because of the expected heat and tough terrain but emotions drove us beyond any sensible reasoning. I new Sarah was ahead of me when I found her entry in a log book where someone had left trail magic. She dated it 8/7. Not 7/8 all though it should have been 7/9.I cried all day. First for worry, then it became uncontrollable with so many mixed emotions. I needed to stop but kept going wanting to get to Kent and find Sarah. I got as far as Mt Algo Lean To at 7:30 pm just .9 miles from town. It was silly to continue.All I had to eat all day was a bagle I brought from Fort Montgomery. I covered it with cream cheese and peanut butter. I did stay hydrated though.I didn't sleep well.
Date: 2007-07-10
From: Mt Algo Lean-To

To: Kent, CT
Miles today: 0.9

Start - Finish Time: Low/High Temp:I was in town by 8:15.Sarah and I found each other and after a few uneasy words we made up, hugged and all is well.She took me back to the Fife and Drum Inn where I took a long nap and then showered.Now do I reconsider my decision to quit?
Date: 2007-07-11
From: Kent, CT

To: Kent, CT
Miles today: 0.0

Start - Finish Time: Low/High Temp:It is amazing what a day of rest can do and what a mind trip it can be when you are so overly tired. I feel so much better now. But not ready to continue until tomorrow. I feel weak and my body hurts. I need to eat. I really wanted to buy myself a new outfit. Something new can work wonders and ones spirit. I did get a new pair of shoes. Just hope they don't cause blisters.This morning at the cafe there must have been 15 or more hikers eating and talking about eating along with discusion on whether or not to take a 0 day.Sarah and I have commited to rest more, eat more and communicate more.
Date: 2007-07-12
From: Kent, CT

To: Cornwell Bridge
Miles today: 11.4

Start - Finish Time: 9:30 - 5:30Low/High Temp:We agreed to make our plan of 2 days from Kent to Sslisbury into 3 days. We also decided one more night in a motel would help our depleted energy level so we walked into Cornwall Bridge 1 mile from the trail.We bought ourselves sodas, chocolate milk, sub sandwich and of course ice cream at the small market after checking into the Hitching Post Motel.Dogs Life was also staying the night. We met Dogs Life in Irwin and hadn't seen him again until Kent.We're feed, showered and ready for bed as we watch our favorite tv station the weather channel.
Date: 2007-07-13
From: Cornwell Bridge

To: Belters Campsite
Miles today: 11.1
Weather: scattered clouds

Start - Finish Time: 6:45 - 3:15Low/High Temp:Early in the day we passed a man with his son who appeared to be retarted. The two were loaded down with gear and the son was not at all happy. As we continued up the trail the terrain became difficult and we wondered how the son would handle it and just how far they were going to hike this day.As I'm setting up my tent Im reminded of the incident back at Graymoor. I had left my food bags in my tent to run across the ball field to visit with other hikers gathered in the pavilion. The whole time I'm gone I'm thinking something could be getting into my food. Sure enough when I returned I see a big hole torn in the screen. My apple has been nibbled. My food bags have holes in them and strange as it is my silk bag liner has been pulled through the hole.So tonight I make sure my food has not left my site and it will be hung from a tree for the night.Well to our surprise the father and son have arrived at the camp. Buttercup is here too.
Date: 2007-07-14
From: Belters Campsite

To: Riga Lean-To
Miles today: 14.6

Start - Finish Time: 6:05 - 6:00Low/High Temp: 68 / 80Earlier in the day we had thought about staying at Maria McCabes in Salisbury. So that's where we were headed. We got to Salisbury by 11:30. We never were able to get anyone to answer the door at Marias. We couldn't call because no public phone and Verizon did not work.So instead we ate ice cream, went to the library, ate lunch at the Bistro then back to the grocery for supplies to carry us through the next 5 days and ate more ice cream. We left town at 3:30 to walk 4 more miles to the shelter, burping all the way.The shelters here in MA have metal bear boxes for our food bags. It makes it much easier than trying to find a branch low enough and strong enough to hang our food from.The ground at the tenting area for this shelter is dirty black and not too level. And if it were to rain we'd be washed away.
Date: 2007-07-15
From: Riga Lean-To

To: Hemlocks Lean-To
Miles today: 10.0

Start - Finish Time: 6:10 - 2:40Low/High Temp:The way it's working out we either have to do short mile days or really long days.We came to Guilder Pond picnic area and decided to stop and eat since there were picnic tables. As we sat thinking about where we might end up for the night along came Buttercup and then BoBo, The Dude, Wing Heart Jazznuts and Castanets of Atlanta whom we had not seen since the half way mark.As we sat and visited the clouds rolled in and began to rain so we all ran the .4 miles to the shelter.After the rain everyone moved on except the two of us and Jazznuts.
Date: 2007-07-16
From: Hemlocks Lean-To

To: Great Barrington, MA
Miles today: 16.4
Weather: clear sky

Start - Finish Time: 5:45 - 5:30Low/High Temp: 60 / 80It was 8 miles to US 7 where we new there was ice cream .1 mile from the trail. But to get there we had to demonstrate our rock climbing skills. We were glad we did not attempt this yesterday just after the rain.The lady at the Corn Crib on US 7 was very accomodating. She had Berkshire brand pint ice cream for sale. We both ate 2 pints.We didnt see anyone today although the biting bugs sure kept us company. They swarmed us all day even though we had sprayed ourselves head to toe with deet.Were at the hostel located in the basement of the Eastern Mtn Retreat Centers owner. It is very nice. For $11.50 we have shower, towel, shampoo and soap provided. We've washed our clothes and we each have our own bed to sleep in. We are now waiting on two 14 inch pizzas and two 2 liter cokes to be delievered to us.
Date: 2007-07-17
From: Great Barrington, MA

To: Tyringham, MA
Miles today: 12.1

Start - Finish Time: 6:15 - 1:30Low/High Temp: 68 / 79At a road crossing we decided we needed some air and relief from the bugs so we broke from the trail and walked Jerusalem Rd two miles into Tyringham. It was just what we needed. We walked past lovely old old homes with cottage gardens and a dariy farm just as the cows were being let out of the barn. We paused to watch them make their way across the road and into a field.Once in town we checked in at the town office for permission to stay at the Fire Station Pavlion. It's not bad. We are covered, have water, electricity and a port-a-john. Life on the trail is much easier now that I have my FUD and Sarah has made herself what she calls FUF a soda bottle cut in half. We no longer have to drop our packs and our pants to pee.
Date: 2007-07-18
From: Tyringham, MA

To: Dalton, MA
Miles today: 27.6
Weather: moderate rain

7-18-07Start - Finish Time: 5:45 - 7:45Low/High Temp: 64 / 70We started out in a heavy downpour but needed to get going because we had a long day ahead. The trail was a soupy, sloppy mess, walking through bog most of the day. Sarah kept laughing about how dirty my legs were getting.I fell twice where my foot caught but the momentum and weight of my pack threw me flat on the ground with a jolt. First falls like this the entire trip. The second fall bent one of my poles which will have to be replaced.It rained off and on all day although the trees dripped water all day.We had planned to stay at Key Woods Lean-To just 3 miles from Dalton but when we reached October Mtn Lean-To 8 miles from town we decided to go for it.Well it stormed those last 3 miles. We thought we would never reach town.We decided to head to the Shamrock Motel for a dry night in a bed. As we were walking along the sidewalk just after entering town someone called to us from a house and said STOP! And we did. It was Tom Levardi who invited us to come in out of the rain. Buttercup was there as well as two other hikers. Tom fixed us dinner, provided us with towel, shower and a bed. It was wonderful after such a long wet day on the ole AT.By the way Tom has been doing this service free to hikers for over 20 years. He is fantastic.
Date: 2007-07-19
From: Dalton, MA

To: Cheshire, MA
Miles today: 11.5

Start - Finish Time: Low/High Temp: Today is our 4 month anniversary on the trail.I slept well last night. I was so tired from the day before. We ate breakfast at Duff & Dells then on to the post office to pick up our resupply box. I had my Osprey pack and thermarest sent back to me as well.We decided to side blaze the AT by walking the rails to trails bike path that runs between Dalton and Cheshire. It was a very nice and easy walk although it rained the entire time.We checked into the St Mary of the Assumption Church hostel around 1:30 and spread everything out to dry. A walk around town brought us to Ben & Jerrys, fuel, and a sub sandwich.Blue Yonder is the only other hiker here tonight.I have been wearing my skirt again. My shorts were causing my legs to break out in pimplely bumps. I guess because of sweat and friction.I have yet another new pair of shoes coming -I hope tomorrow. So we have to wait for the post office to open in the morning before heading back out to climb Mt Graylock.
Date: 2007-07-20
From: Cheshire, MA

To: Wilbur Clearing Lean-To
Miles today: 11.6

Start - Finish Time: 9:50 - 5:00Low/High Temp: 64 / 57I had another pair of shoes to be picked up at PO this morning. My poor feet. The Merrells just were not working.We did get in a good breakfast before leaving town. The trail was a river flowing from the recent rains as we climbed Mt Graylock. In the shelter tonight are the two brothers from Tampa Lucky and Pack Rat as well as a ridge runner. Its cool night with no mesquitoes.
Date: 2007-07-21
From: Wilbur Clearing Lean-To

To: Seth Warner Shelter
Miles today: 11.6
Weather: clear sky

Start - Finish Time: 6:15 - 2:30Low/High Temp: 54 / 70A three mile walk to MA2 state road then .7 miles off trail to Friendlys resturant for breakfast and the grocery for ice cream.Some steep climbs up and over rocks. More mud and water to tramp through.My feet hurt more than ever. We really wanted to go 7.2 miles further to the next shelter but I just could not do it.Anyway, we are one day ahead of plans.
Date: 2007-07-22
From: Seth Warner Shelter

To: Melville Nauheim Shelter
Miles today: 13.1
Weather: few clouds

Start - Finish Time: 6:50 - 3:30Low/High Temp: 54 / 72Another really nice day.Saw our first SOBO thru hikers.Walked past a large pond dammed by beavers. Very impressive work.I am counting down the days. Tomorrow we reach 1600 miles with 573 to go. We still have a lot of walking to do.
Date: 2007-07-25
From: Spruce Peak Shelter

To: Manchester Center VT/Suttons
Miles today: 2.8
Weather: clear sky

Start - Finish Time: Low/High Temp:A quick walk to the road and just a few minutes later the 5.5 mile ride into town. We were dropped off at the PO at 8am. We picked up our resupply boxes and then made our way to Suttons stopping for breakfast at Friendlys.Spent most of the day eating and shopping the outfitter stores only even though this town consists factory outlet stores.I bought yet another pair of shoes and insoles at The Mtn Goat Outfitter and underwear at EMS. I also got the bent bottom extention of my hiking pole replaced. Went to dinner with Sugar Foot. I got in 3 meals plus2 pints of ice cream.
Date: 2007-07-27
From: Manchester Center VT/Suttons

To: Peru Peak Shelter
Miles today: 10.1
Weather: scattered clouds

Start - Finish Time: 8:15 - 3:15Low/High Temp: 70 / 77We left Suttons at 6am with a 14.8 mile day planned.But of course we didnt want to pass up breakfast. As we headed down the street towards the resturant a car pulls up and a young man calls out I havent seen you since the Smokies. His name was Steven taking a day off to visit with family. After we ate he drove us back to the trail saving us trying to hitch hike back.Sarah had a bad fall and hurt her shoulder. Although can still hike with her pack. So we both moved through the day loaded down with food.The shelter we had planned to stay at had been burned down so it was either end our day earily or hike much further to the next shelter. We chose to end earily.Wise decision because thunder storms rolled in. We continue to see more and more SOBOs.
Date: 2007-07-28
From: Peru Peak Shelter

To: Minerva Hinchey Shelter
Miles today: 19.6
Weather: light rain

Start - Finish Time: 6:00 - 6:30Low/High Temp: 63 / 74Sarah is now hiking much faster than I am so now I bring up the rear. We had discused hiking 14.6 miles for the day before she moved ahead. I stopped for lunch at a shelter and continued on about 20 min later I realized I had left my hat behind and had to go back. When I finally reach the shelter we had planned to stay at I see a note left by Sarah saying shes gone on to the next shelter 5 miles further. Its now 3:30 and Im tired but what am I to do but keep going.I make it but Im pooped. I Hope this doesnt happen again.
Date: 2007-07-29
From: Minerva Hinchey Shelter

To: Swan Song Shelter
Miles today: 8.7

Start - Finish Time: 6:45 - 3:30Low/High Temp: 63 / 72About mid day we reached the 500 mile mark.I look back to where we were 500 miles from the start and its just past Damascus VA. Theres still about 7 weeks left in this journey.
Date: 2007-07-30
From: Swan Song Shelter

To: Inn at Long Trail/near Rutland VT
Miles today: 11.4

Start - Finish Time: 5:40 - 2:00Low/High Temp: 58 / 88This was an unplanned stop but its just a mile off the trail and we really needed to get a shower and laundry plus, of course, eat.During the day I met up with Wingheart, Castanets and Boo Boo for lunch. Once again Sarah had gone on. To often now she seems to get agitated with me early on in the day and moves abruptly on. I then spend the rest of the day wondering what I did or said to cause this. She is not happy with the situation and I guess neither am I.