morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2017-06-17
From: Eckville Shelter

To: Bake Oven Knob Shelter
Miles today: 17.4
Weather: overcast clouds

Left the shelter early and did another early morning 1000 foot climb. Today was all about the Pennsylvania rocks. Miles of normal trail, now defined as edge to edge rocks. This kind of trail has become normal and I am hiking it at about normal speed with extra care not to stumble or roll my ankles. Just pound on with my feet taking extra punishment. The next level of rock I'll call boulder piles. This trail is a jumble or maze of washing machine sized boulders with gaps between and some high steps, too high to step up or down especially with a pack on. Speed is cut way down probably more than half. Today we added The Knife's Edge and Bake Oven Knob. This is the same as the boulder piles with car sized rocks mixed in, also with very steep ups and downs and long slanted rock faces with no place to get a grip. I spent much time stopped and trying to figure out the safest way down or up and also the route the trail takes is hard to follow over this terrain. I fell several times because the rocks were wet in the rain, the only thing that could make it worse. Most were not a problem, only a few scrapes. Tonight another hiker came in to the shelter and I will describe him as having "wounds" as he had a rough time on both the Knife's Edge and the Bake Oven Knob. Add to that two other issues. First, the rattlesnakes like to sun themselves on the rocks so we keep a constant eye peeled for them. So far not a problem. Second, the trail will climb up on a high ridge in PA, and stay there for miles with only a few hundred feet of elevation change up and down at intervals along the way. We get water from springs, mostly up to half a mile downhill off the ridge crest. There are almost no actual flowing streams. Many of the springs are going dry. There is no way to rush across Pennsylvania. My progress seems so slow. I am ready to finish this state. It is taking all my mental toughness to keep going - one day at a time. That's not a pretty picture, but this part of the hike is a difficult challenge with almost no breaks. I am planning to reach Delaware Water Gap on Tuesday, where I will step across the border into New Jersey and bid Pennsylvania goodbye. There - now I feel better! Goodnight Sweetheart.
Date: 2017-06-18
From: Bake Oven Knob Shelter

To: Stealth Campsite at Mile 1266
Miles today: 16.0
Weather: few clouds

Wow! Another one of those days. As I described trail conditions in yesterday's entry I think today blew that up with a new one. I came down off the mountain, crossed the Lehigh River, and was faced with the mother of all rock piles - a 1000 foot high pile combining all the descriptions from yesterday. Once at the top the trail is rerouted around a superfund remediation site. The guidebook description says in part "Rocky steep trail from Lehigh Gap. Deforested ridge due to zinc smelting from 1898 - 1980. Remedial activities associated with the revegetation of Blue Mountain are currently being conducted near the A. T. between Lehigh Gap and Little Gap as part of the Palmerton Zinc Pile Superfund Site." So that was fun. Finally coming down off the pile and superfund site on a four mile long ridge I stuck out my thumb at the road and got a hitch into Daniellsville, PA to a small grocery where I bought lunch, a few supply items, and the lady there filled my water bottles. A nice lady and her father gave me the ride, waited, and took me back to the trail. Worked out very well due to their kindness. After that it was a hot and rocky hike ahead where I am camped alone in the woods when I saw a place with a small and level site with not too many rocks. Water is continuing to be scarce and its availability will dictate my pace thru the remainder of Pennsylvania. I sent Marlene a video from near the top of the rock pile and I think she posted it on Facebook. Beyond that I was not able to communicate today. Getting closer to the end of Pennsylvania. Goodnight Sweetheart.
Date: 2017-06-19
From: Stealth Campsite at Mile 1266

To: Wind Gap, PA
Miles today: 12.1
Weather: overcast clouds

Woke up at 4:00 this morning to a strange animal sound outside my tent. Sounded like a small animal with laryngitis trying to force its' voice to make a sound. I just listened. It sounded mad but did not do anything aggressive so I stayed quiet. Eventually it began to move around and it heard the sound coming from different sides and then from farther away and then very far away. I went back to sleep until around 5:30 and got out in dim light to find no sign of it. Oh well, I guess I'll never know. My plan was to hike about 15 or more miles today to get closer to Delaware Water Gap for a shorter hike tomorrow but I began to have thunder and lightning up on the ridge and felt safer getting down to lower elevation. I came to this small town and am sharing a cheap hotel room with Smeagol, another hiker from Birmingham. We will try to hitch up to the trail in the morning. I will have a full day to make DWG tomorrow. Today, more rocks and challenges with finding water, and I expect the same tomorrow. Talked with Marlene tonight and caught up on all the family news. Goodnight Sweetheart.
Date: 2017-06-20
From: Wind Gap, PA

To: Delaware Water Gap, PA - Church of the Mountain Hostel
Miles today: 15.5

In my mind I'm going to New Jersey. Just 2/10 of a mile from the hostel I will cross the Delaware River on a long bridge and leave Pennsylvania behind. It's always nice to reach a milestone and mark progress, and that progress will be tomorrow. But in my mind I've already left. The anticipation has been there so long. I've been living in the "are we there yet" place. Good things happened in PA. Lots of milestones already reached. And Marlene and Allison came and we celebrated my 68th birthday. All the hikers feel this way. Our feet are bruised. We want to see some normal trail again. There is no magic in crossing the river. The geology of this area does not respect state lines, and there will be rocks in New Jersey tomorrow morning. But they can't start thinning out in New Jersey until we leave PA. This morning Smeagol and I got ready early and went to McDonalds for breakfast. We crossed the main street and soon a lady pulled over in a large pickup truck. Her son hiked last year and she repaid the kindness shown to him by giving us a ride to the trailhead. That was great and we were on the trail and on our way to DWG. Today was much better than yesterday. There was no rain or lightning threatening. The humidity was much lower. I felt strong after a good nights rest. The cool morning woods was great and we had a nice breeze all day. I just didn't feel it yesterday but today I was ready to finish out PA. There was a big climb out of Wind Gap, as is normal. Once up on the ridge just more of the rocky PA trail. I put it on auto pilot and pushed ahead about 6 miles. Then came Wolf Rocks, a boulder pile and knife's edge along the cliff face. It was actually fun. I slowed down to enjoy it and be safe. Sent Marlene a picture but no video because it just looked like something bad could happen. Then another long run similar to this morning. Finally I began to see the gap in the mountains through which the Delaware River flows. Then I saw the river. It tried my patience though because the trail took a long and complicated route to the bottom before coming to the town. Several local hikers were around and volunteered to get pictures for me at some of the more scenic spots. I walked into the church hostel and was greeted by several hikers I know. I soon had a bunk space and went to a local wings place with Smeagol. I am settled in for the evening trying to rest my feet and relax. The plan is to leave first thing in the morning. On to the New Jersey trail. I am so ready. Goodnight Sweetheart.
Date: 2017-06-25
From: Hotel

To: Hotel
Miles today: 0.0

When I awoke at the Mohican Outdoor Center my right foot and hip were stiff and sore and I was limping around. It was not very encouraging. There was a decision to be made. Do I make arrangements to go home or do I try to see if there is something that can be done to heal this so I can continue. Honestly, the details of the next steps are a little fuzzy to me. Marlene did most of the leg work to look into insurance issues, a hotel in the area, and any ideas on medical procedures I could have. At some point she contacted Robert Funk, husband of Allison, Marlene's traveling partner when they came to celebrate my birthday. Robert and Allison are good friends, and Robert has years of experience in the physical therapy field. Again, I am unsure of all that went on but Robert suggested a laser therapy that he had used before with good and fast results. Somehow they contacted a clinic in the area and got me an appointment and Marlene got me a hotel room not too far from the clinic. I called a shuttle driver and moved to the hotel. I went and had a session on my hip and on my foot. In the meantime Robert was setting up an exercise program for me for my foot and hip which he sent me via email and I printed off on the hotel computer. Robert and I talked by phone and via text messages numerous times throughout the days off. The second morning Robert called to check and suggested I get a second round of treatments on the laser. They were not even supposed to be open that day but somehow they called me back and got me right in. Then I decided to go all out and was willing to take more time off and try to get well so I could continue. The hotel had been booked for months for a wedding on that weekend. I could stay Thursday and Friday but not the weekend. I asked to be put on a waiting list for cancellations but as time passed nothing came up. I checked on my way out Friday morning to get some supplies and there was nothing. A few minutes later they called Marlene with a cancelation so I could stay the two more days. The hotel I stayed at has three floors. I talked with Robert about the need to carry my pack and we talked about doing the steps carrying my pack. He agreed, so I spent time doing his exercises and carrying my pack up and down the stairwell. It has 42 steps. I counted. The hotel staff enjoyed watching all of this and I am on a first name basis with all of them. I also iced my foot and hip regularly the whole weekend. Honestly I don't know how to evaluate any of these activities and cannot answer the question "Did it help?" I've always said the only way to get ready for a hike is to hike. But I believe we have done our best and we have put it into the hands of the Lord. I am willing to go with whatever He decides. I have a shuttle lined up to take me back to the trail in the morning.
Date: 2017-06-27
From: Campsite at Mile 1315.8

To: Mashipacong Shelter
Miles today: 15.0
Weather: broken clouds

I was camped alone and had a good night's sleep and was up at the dim beginning of the day getting packed and having breakfast. The morning woods is so enjoyable. The rocks continued and the trail was a little more up and down today, including something called Jacobs Ladder. About 7 miles ahead I came to US Highway 206 and hitchhiked into Branchville, NJ to Dale's Market where I bought supplies and got real food for lunch. It took awhile to get a ride each way but I made it back to the trailhead and continued on, refreshed with a big lunch and Gatorade. The major climb for the day was Sunrise Mountain which has a stone pavilion at the summit. There I watched thunderstorms blowing across the valley but decided to hike ahead anyway. I got a little wet later but nothing to worry about. Mid afternoon I was hiking toward a clearing ahead when suddenly a big male black bear ran across the trail in front of me. That is their typical reaction when they hear and then see you coming. It was very fast and I had no time to get a picture. Exciting! A few miles more and I arrived at this shelter for the night, satisfied with a 15 mile day. My feet and hip did ok and I am encouraged that they will handle the load. I hope the rocks thin out ahead but the reports are not that encouraging, and conflicting depending on whether I talk to a local or to a thru hiker. The thru hiker grapevine seems more dependable and it says the rocks continue on into New York. I am trying to hike carefully to help my leg but also try to make good time as the places to camp and water sources are a challenge in this area. Someone in the area brought plastic jugs of water to this shelter for the hikers today knowing the water sources are drying up. (This shelter is pretty close to a road). That was so helpful but you can't depend on it and then get caught dry. So I loaded up with a heavy water supply at Dale's Market. Today wore me out but it was a good day for me. I sent a quick text to Marlene so she would know I made it here ok. I'm going to sleep early. Goodnight Sweetheart.
Date: 2018-05-19
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

It has been a long year since I got hurt and had to get off the trail in 2017.  But, I am ready to go out again and try to finish my hike to Katahdin in 2018.  On Wednesday, May 23, 2018 I will be leaving for the trail and should take my first steps northbound the next day.  I am very excited to be going back out.  Can't wait to meet new people and head north from New Jersey to see the rest.  There is a new journal here on tj.com for this year's trip.  Thanks for following along.
Date: 2016-12-27
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

Just trying to see if I am going to like this means of chronicling my upcoming hike/adventure. I have been backpacking for many years. But always short duration hikes of not more than a week. But in those years I have hopefully learned a few things that will also make me a successful long distance hiker. I was able to instill a love of the trail into my son who completed all miles of the AT in 2012. But I had to wait till I "grew up" and entered retirement. So, now with about 3 1/2 months to go before launch day, I am ready and excited. I will be doing a "flip flop" hike. Starting in Harper's Ferry and going North and then returning to Harper's Ferry to walk home to Georgia. I am looking forward to sharing this here and hope that those who choose to read will feel the same sense of wonder, the excitement, the freedom, the appreciation, that I will feel. HIKE ON!Foghat
Date: 2016-12-28
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

Physical fitness has been a part of my life for many years. Still I realize that I am carrying 15 - 20 pounds too much body weight. So, in preparation for my hike, I have stepped up my workouts especially with regard to my legs. So, by start date I should be stronger and lighter. Yes, I know that the trail itself pretty much does this for you. But I really want to avoid some injury at my age that could make this a failure for me. Currently reading Balancing on Blue by Keith Foskett. A very good read about his AT hike.
Date: 2017-01-29
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

There are definite milestones that occur in a person's life. I passed one in my life a couple of days ago. I hung up my stethoscope. Having practiced medicine for 35 years, I now leave it behind and reach for other pursuits. Such as my backpack. I have always participated in hiking but usually for just 3 or 4 days at a time. No more than a week. Now I can concentrate on preparing for the trials and blessings of a long distance and long duration hike. My wonderful co-workers will have an AT map in the office and I will keep in touch with them and others so that they can follow my progress and live the trail vicariously though me. I hope that I will be able to adequately convey the wonder, the hardships, the beauty, and the personality of the trail to all who wish they could walk with me.So, still looking at an April 16 departure date for my flip flop hike starting at Harper's Ferry. Now I toughen up on my fitness routine and get trail ready and trail durable!
Date: 2017-03-05
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

Only 6 weeks till my start date! I am making a real effort to make sure that not only am I ready for this journey mentally and physically but also that my wife and family are ready. I have been very busy doing projects around the house and making sure that all "my" stuff is done or will be taken care of so she is not burdened with it. I will provide maps to several friends and family members so that as I progress on the trail and call them, they can mark my location and follow along with me. I have also asked them to write a note on a post-it note next to the map so that when I return I can see what was going on in their lives while I was at a certain place. I am looking forward to seeing the threads of those lives intertwine!
Date: 2017-04-05
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

I am so near to beginning my trek I can taste it! Some have questioned my leaving home for a 6 month trial of endurance and hardship. In truth I will be temporarily leaving one home and going to another home. I am at home in the wilderness and will feel welcome there. Not to make light of the challenges, but merely seeking to paint a positive outlook for the benefit of those who don't know or don't understand. We will be leaving next week and heading toward my Easter Day start at Harpers Ferry. I am very appreciative to those who have been so supportive and encouraging. I even appreciate those who think I am crazy! Maybe I am! In a good way. Maybe my "maturity" will be a help to someone else on the trail! There is another "Foghat" on the trail this year. He started at Springer. If he is fast, maybe we will meet!Foghat
Date: 2017-04-20
From: Fayetteville, PA

To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: scattered clouds

The weekend at Harpers Ferry was good! Tammy and I enjoyed good company at the Light Horse B&B. I could feel her concern for me and I hope she could feel mine for her too! But finally Sunday came and time to go. We parted somewhat tearfully and I crossed the bridge from West VA into Maryland. Seems like I kept meeting "mature" folks, like me! Graybeard, Old Growth, Ten Steps. 11 mile day for day 1. On trail by 7:30 next day in the rain. Still can not help smiling all the time! Did 14 miles and limped into camp with very tired legs and sore feet. Stayed at camping area with family of five including one nursing. Slept so good! 48 degrees next AM. Met another very mature hiker who said that his trail name was "Meandering Snail" because he was in no hurry! Love it! Every body tells tales of the rocks in PA but let me tell you the rocks of MA are no slouch either! But they are the kind that want to trip you up or hurt your feet. Today the 19th has been rainy and overcast. Tonight will be first night in a shelter. Almost 5 and no one else here yet. Need to know if I am doing things right. Met "Chef" today. Young and from Atlanta. Said he started at Springer 2/19! Two months and he is already here?! My thought for the day has to do with art. You see paintings and you see a glimpse of the mind that created it. Let me tell you, God has a beautiful mind!Foghat- [ ]
Date: 2017-04-21
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

ResupplyI made my way over a few lesser mountains and mountains of Pennsylvania rocks (refrigerator and car size). Yesterday I came hwy 30 and a planned stop in Fayetteville, PA. The manager of the Scottish Inn came to pick me up and I booked 2 nights. The place is kinda rundown but the people are very nice and accommodating. The Flamingo restaurant is across the street. So today is a zero day and my first trial of resupply. Well, Walmart is it. I asked the manager of the motel to drop me off and give me two hours so I could study and read labels and such. Also there is a Subway in the store that sounded good. After the allotted 2 hours I was picked up with three bags of groceries that I needed to break down into a manageable size and weight. I am sure I have overdone it. I was aiming for 5 days of food. But it just looks like so much! And now I have to carry it! But my legs are getting stronger and more patient with me. Thinking about the next resupply being Duncannon,PA and maybe even the famous "infamous" Doyle Hotel. That will be in 4-6 days. Between here and there is the Pine Grove Furnace State Park and also famous "half gallon challenge". That is where those who have completed the halfway point (unlike me who is just still a newbie) are challenged to eat a half gallon of ice cream in as little time as possible. So far my miles are 58.8 miles traveled in 6 days including the zero. That is an average of less than 10 miles per day and I need to be at between 15 - 20 to finish in 6 mo. It will continue to get better!! Love you all, Foghat
Date: 2017-04-23
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: moderate rain

Birch Run Shelter April 22Looks like I will be in a full shelter tonight. Rainy and cold. Only 10 miles today and it is early. Only 2 o'clock. But I have reservations at hostel in Pine Grove Furnace state park tomorrow night and it is only 10 miles away. Will also pass the official physical halfway point of the AT in just a few miles tomorrow. The emotional and spiritual halfway point is Harpers Ferry. I will visit the AT Museum tomorrow too. Someone brought bag of marshmallows. Magic around the fire with bunch of hungry guys! April 23 sitting at Pine Grove Grove General Store. Not going to do half gallon challenge since I am just starting. May watch someone try though. Went through the museum too. Here with Whale, Smitty, Billy Goat, Old Growth
Date: 2017-04-25
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

24 AprilSpent last night in Iron Masters Mansion. A hostel in Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Only 4 of us there and we all knew each other. Had pizza for supper, slept ok. Then waffles and bagels for breakfast. Got a fairly early start at 7:40 and wound up close to 16 miles. You have heard there is a thin line between pain and ecstasy or love and hate. Today was wonderful and very painful. I loved the parts of the trail over soft black soil. And also over the condominium sized boulders. But the trail (most) was also over and made of the smaller (softball sized) rocks that hurt my feet tremendously. So I arrived at Alex Kennedy Shelter and am with Smitty, Michelle (a guy that seems to be a permanent hiker of some trail or another) Vesper ( a young post grad female with a skinned head on the sides) and Jack (a young flip flopper). Expect more rain tomorrow. Trying for 18 miles and also a stop along the way for some more camp shoes as my Xero's broke. Again. Talked to DeAnna, Tammy, and Susan! 25 AprilTalked to Mike today. Woke his but up at 8:30 AM! I was walking though a field at the time. Did 18 miles today. Most through agricultural fields, some with huge areas of beautiful yellow flowers that I later learned to be canola! Then the last 2 miles were a steep ascent to get to the shelter. It is as if the makers of the trail just wanted to remind us we are still in PA. Tonight is the Darlington Shelter known for its Taj Mahal privy. Haven't seen it yet. Will let you know. Here tonight is an older married couple Cowboy and Furby, Smitty, Jack, and me. I had the honor to give Jack his new trail name - Red Walker! He was excited! Tomorrow will be a 12 mile day into Duncannon. Planning to zero there on Thursday too. Passed 100 miles today! Only 2000+ to go!