morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2010-03-26
From: Derrick Knob Shelter

To: Mt Collins Shelter
Miles today: 13.5
Weather: light snow

The word was another day of rain was expected. They were right. It began as a cold drizzle which was better than the hard rain that fell through the night. The fog was very thick and everything was gray and white. The snow was on and off for a few miles then it was all snow. The going was slow and very taxing physically. Blow downs were everywhere old and new. The snow was getting deeper and deeper as the trail went up into the dense spruce forest. The snow that had fallen all year had slid off of the spruce boughs and accumulated on the trail. When your foot punches through a soft place it makes a deep hole. Postholing it's called. Walking on the packed snow is difficult enough but when you are punching holes it is nothing less than hard work. The branches of the spruce were forever in the way as the snow was atleasr waist deep or deeper. Normally I would be able to walk under them but being so high off of the trail so much got in the way. Blow downs everywhere. Had to crawl over and under many times. After some time waitnsee moonshine terripin and myself stayed pretty close together. Finally made over Clingmans Dome and postholed our way down the other side. Still foggy and rainy on top and no view again for our efforts. Less than an hour after making it to the top the sun and blue sky began to appear as the wind was finally doing somthing good for a change. Going down was not any easier. Postholing added much more effort and slowed us down. The sky became very pretty and the ice that accumulated on the trees from past days of rain began to shower down on top of us as it began to warm. The trees sparkled in the sun and was way cool. Unlike the last time this happened coming out of deep gap the ice falling was chunks and enough to make you duck and cover when it came crashing down over your head. What a day. I don't remember signing up for this. Got to the trail marker that indicated where the shelter turn off was and just my luck it was another 1/2 mile down a side trail. Oh well. Was very glad to get there just the same. The sky was crystal clear and the moon shone bright high above the towering spruce. A fine ending to an 11 hour 13.5 mile day. Good night
Date: 2010-03-27
From: Mt Collins Shelter

To: Gatlinburg
Miles today: 4.5
Weather: clear sky

The coldest night yet. That is what clear skies will do for you. I had to use my stove to unfreeze my boots just to get them on. Did not matter I was more than ready to get off of this snowy mt. The day warmed up rather quickly and it was actually a nice hike in. The trail was packed hard from the overnight freeze and provided a very stable surface to walk on. Was absolutely amazed at the parking lot at Newfound Gap where the trail crosses.There were so many people coming and going and cars everywhere. I was glad to see all that action because I needed a ride into Gatlinburg 15 miles away. I ran into a couple other hikers who were heading back onto the trail after spending 2 nights here, Wanderer Nopoint and Walleye. Talked a little about the horrendous trail conditions and felt a closer connection for having shared in what it took to be where we were. They were clean and refreshed and ready to get back on the horse and I was tired and smelly and ready to fix that. A couple approached and asked if anyone neede a ride into town. Trail angels Donald and Carolann gave me a lift offered food and drink and dropped me off at a recommended hotel. The people who care for us hikers are great. Their generosity seems to have no limits. The sides of the road into town was lined with parked vehicles as locals and visitors were out day hiking and picnicing on a beautiful spring day. Got myself checked in took care of business and then went down to Smokies for a few cold ones some hot food and watch a few basketball games. Civilization. Gotta love it Hiked beyond the 200 mile marker today
Date: 2010-03-29
From: Hot Springs NC

To: spring mountain shelter
Miles today: 11.0
Weather: light rain

Terry took us out for a huge hiker breakfast. He then drove another 2 hours to get us to Hot Springs so we could start our hike. We owe you big time Terry. Thanks for everything. I had a mail drop and we did a little shopping to fill in what we did not have. I ended up throwing some of Chris's choices out because they were to heavy and not necessary. I got the dirty eye for that one. We hit the trail at 2:00. We ascended out of the valley and had the French Broad River disappearing below as we went up. The weather was nice with clouds and sun. Our goal was to get to the top where there was a fire tower and possible camp spot. Chris shot off up ahead and was in view most of the time for awhile. The trail was mostly a moderate slope but got steeper and much steeper in places. After some time the fog rolled in and it began to rain. We had passed a blind hiker and his companion about 3 miles into it and after that I lost sight of Chris. When I finally got to the area of the top I began looking for the tower. It's often difficult in thick fog to tell where the summit is because there is often a slight decent before the final climb. Next thing I knew I was headed down, down, down and no sign of Chris. Did he miss the tower also? Should I go back up and look? I had the tent and I had the cook stove and the map to where we were going. I elected with much uncertainty to proceed to the gap about 1.5 miles down. It was getting dark early because of the thick fog and I was indeed worried. I got to the gap and there was much to my tired delight Chris wandering around looking for the white blaze that should have been on the other side of the road. He was not very happy to find out that we missed our destination about 1 mile back up top of the mountain that we just came down. He and I were at this point very tired but still had 2 miles before the next shelter. We did finally arrive just before dark. A quick bite to eat and in our sleeping bags for the night.
Date: 2010-03-30
From: spring mountain shelter

To: Jerry Cabin Shelter
Miles today: 15.4
Weather: overcast clouds

We had 2 options for shelters today and was at the first shelter just before 2:00. Decided to go for the next because Chris(Gator) needed to be off of the trail by Saturday. Gator was exhausted after the first day and realized that it is not a horse race. We would be hiking for atleast 10 hours each day and pacing is necessary. Needless to say we stayed close enough together where we could talk and moved at my pace. It was a long day and we put in many hard miles. The weather got better later in the day and we finished in sunshine. The very difficult climbs brought us through many differant terrains and the best was a rock ledge that made us use our hands to pull ourselves up and over difficult areas. The reward for a hard climb was fantastic views of the entire Tennessee and NC mountains and the valleys far below. It was a physical day but the change of trail conditions, weather and oustanding views made it a great day. Somehow the destination is always further than you think. I think it is just around the next bend gets real old after a long day. I need to learn to not say that because it can get frustrating. We were the only hikers at the shelter this night. Very glad to get there.
Date: 2010-03-31
From: Gatlinburg

To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

Home girl reporting form the man cave:Strider has met up with Gator( his brother Chris). Finally, they are having some nice weather with some really wonderful views. the trail and mileage is starting to take a toll on the both of them-40 miles in 3 days. They aren't spring chickens any more( he didn't say that). They are going to take it a little slower and will be in Erwin NC by Saturday.
Date: 2010-03-31
From: Jerry Cabin Shelter

To: Hogback Ridge Shelter
Miles today: 15.4
Weather: overcast clouds

We are getting better at getting up getting it done and getting on the trail. Hit the trail at 8:30. The terrain in this area is much like the hiking further south. The elevation is still above 5000 and the climbs can be substantial. The gaps are not as deep as often as they seemed to be further south. The main differance is that the trail follows closer to civilization. Clear skies gave views of the surrounding vista. The trees are still without leaves so much of any opening provides a look at the landscape. We crossed a major highway I-26 and we crossed a few backcountry roads. Many clear creeks poured down from up high collecting more as it traveled on down. The mountains hold much water within its mass and here and there the water is released by pressure as fresh water springs. Water so far has been plentiful   Seeing roads, farms and houses from above and from a distance helps give perspective when you finally arrive at a place. The wilderness just keeps coming at you mountain and valley as far as you can see. Hearing a dog bark off in the distance and seeing a hillside home in the distance kind of brings you back. Went to bed last night under a blanket of stars above. Woke to clear skies and was treated to near 80 degrees. The trail has dried nicely and we enjoyed a perfect day on the trail. Getting an early start and keeping a steady pace we got to the shelter at 5:00. We had plenty of time to relax and soak our feet in the spring. Another great day.
Date: 2010-04-01
From: Gatlinburg

To: Terry and Emory
Miles today: 0.0

Began the day by recieving a call from Chris. He said that instead of him picking me up his friend Terry would. That would save Chris a couple hours. After driving 2 hours to get me we then drove to get Chris another 2 hours in Erwin. We then drove another 2 hours to Terry and Emory's home. We had a great evening at their beautiful home and enjoyed a wonderful dinner and great conversation. The view we had from the back deck was similar to what we were going to see from many mountain tops that we would struggle to climb. mountain tops shrouded by clouds and rising fog. It was a memorable night and now I can add Emory and Terry to the wonderful people that I have met on this amazing journey.
Date: 2010-04-01
From: Hogback Ridge Shelter

To: Bald Mountain Shelter
Miles today: 10.1
Weather: clear sky

A #1 Best day yet on the trail. A hard 10.1 miles that put our legs to the test with some steep and then even steeper climbs. Early on we could see our destination off in the distance. The Big Bald is a mountain top that sits at 5500 ft in elevation and is void of trees for the most part. The top from a distance looks as smooth as a babys butt. It was a day of all uphills. We were now within the respectable hiking range of getting Gator to Erwin by Saturday. Today we did 10.1 tomorrow 10.6 and the Saturday a short 6 miles. So the pressure was off and we had all day to do what we had to do. The final push up onto Bald was very steep and as usuall every step was deliberate. A very slow and consistant grind that eventually brought us up to an incredable view of layer after layer of appalachia mountains stretching as far as the eye could see in every direction. A light breeze and a bright 80 degree sunshine bathed and soothed our hot sweaty bodies as we crossed over the top. It amazes me how these mountain tops are large fields of grass without any trees growing on them at all. We made it down another mile or so and arrived at the shelter around 4:00. Had the shelter to our selves until about 6:00 when 12% showed up with Bud. Bud I had met early on and his first reaction was how did you get ahead of me. He is young and can do many miles. Real nice guy. We had a nice fire going when they came in and we sat for a while before hitting the sleeping bag. Another night under a star studded sky. Life is good.
Date: 2010-04-02
From: Bald Mountain Shelter

To: No Business Shelter
Miles today: 10.6
Weather: clear sky

Last nights shelter was situated very close to a water source. A nice spring poured out of the side of the mountain providing plenty of clear cold water. We are getting into the habit when taking breaks, (time permitting) of soaking our feet in the cool streams and anytime that it's close to the shelter it really helps. We loaded up on a fresh supply and were on the trail under sunny skies once again. Early on, we went through a substantial amount of snow after coming over Little Bald Mt. It slowed us a bit but it also substantiated my choice to skip a part of the Smokies in order to avoid these kind of conditions. I recieved an Email from WaitnSee and he affirmed my concern, said it was no fun and much work through 80 miles of wet and slushy conditions. We had about a half mile of it and that was more than enough for Gator. Everything on our bodies felt good today. Every day is a hard day and it should at some point get easier. It's a little easier for me because I have been on the trail for a month. Climbed another tricky, rock ledge area and dropped down into another gap with a road crossing. Spivey Gap had a nice fresh water stream running by so we took our lunch soaking our feet and cooling ourselves off. In the 30 minutes that we were there about 50 motorcycles came by. These winding narrow roads are famous for biking and this nice weather has them out in droves. We had a big climb out of Spivey Gap that followed a sustantial stream that was falling the entire length of the mountainside that we were climbing up. Many blowdowns had us climbing up and over root systems and twisted branches. Finally arrived at the shelter and we were both pretty whooped. The heat of the day added to the physical output of the day. Yukon RasButon stopped in for a break as did Lucky. Lucky is a southbounder finishing up his thru hike from last year and got snowed out in November. Yukon was northbound and completed a thru last year. These two got to talking and realized that they were at the same shelter hut, at the very same time in New Hampshire, last August. Its great when the interactions and conversations lead to the unexpected with the interesting happenings of the people on the trail. Lucky decided to spend the night and we shared the shelter. He is trying to do an average of 16 mile days. Another great day for Gator and myself to catch up on the past. One more short day on the trail tomorrow.
Date: 2010-04-03
From: No Business Shelter

To: Erwin Tn
Miles today: 6.5
Weather: overcast clouds

The wind picked up over night and woke to a hazy sky. Short day today but we still got on the trail at 8:30. We had another casual hike that brought us along the ledge that brings you down out of the mountains and into the town of Erwin. Many great views of the river and valley below could be seen most of the last few miles. The trail wound around the mountain switchbacking back and forth openning views on all sides. Took a lot of pictures as we came down. I am going to have a disc made from my photos and have homegirl see if she can add them to this journal. I am using an Iphone for my journaling and picture taking. I am unable to get service most of the time so I am limited on when I can update. Periodically I can get a phone call in from a mountain top during the middle of the day. I am 4 hours differant than home girl so that also plays a factor on calling times. The battery power depletes quickly so I limit my usage and can only recharge when I get to town. Made it into town at noon. Checked into a Holiday Inn Express and went to Walmart to resupply for my next leg. Will say good bye to Gator tomorrow and hit the trail again. I had a great time with my brother. Its good to see that he is still tough and still has game. All my whooping him into shape as a youngster didn't go to waste. I appreciate him taking this time to make my journey that much better.
Date: 2010-04-04
From: Erwin Tn

To: Unaka Mt
Miles today: 12.6

Got up early and updated my journal. Had the breakfast buffet and really pigged out as usual. Had a little chat with bulldog and was amazed at how a blind hiker can move so quickly without stumbling continuously. I am constantly stubbing my toe on rocks and roots. There are many precarious places that a wrong move will send you tumbling. All the hand over hand, downed trees to scramble over, under and around,foot bridges to cross. My hats off to him. His effort is incredable. Said goodby to brother Chris(Gator). Headed north out of Erwin. It felt differant being alone but the day was again real nice and the trail began rather level. As in most town departures the trail eventually went up. The sound of the river below faded away as I climbed but the sound of the train could be heard all day. Before long Picker and Switchback passed me in the middle of a long climb. I caught up with them at the first shelter where they stopped for a break. We ended up doing a bit of leap frog during the day. The trail went from the 1700ft river basin thru some dense vegitation and mountain streams. Up the side of the mountain around the ledges and eventually across some fields and balds. The last uphill for the day was rather steep and and put the legs to the test. The left foot has been a problem but less of one as I did not do big miles my last 3 days. It began to bother me during the last push uphill for the day. I ended up tenting on top of the 5100ft Ukana Mountain for the night in a large pine forest on top of the mountain. Picker, Switchback and myself shared the area. It was the first time I spent any chatting time with either one and it was nice to get to know them a little. It was another awesome day and clear skies throughout the night. Tomorrows hike begins downhill. Gotta love it.
Date: 2010-04-05
From: Unaka Mt

To: Clyde Smith Shelter
Miles today: 12.5
Weather: overcast clouds

Left the tent sight and discovered that we were not on top of Unaka at all. There was a much better clearing a little further on with many more level options to choose from. Getting over the top was hampered by many blowdowns. Beyond was not any differant. Hadn't seen this much stuff blocking the trail for awhile. It involves a little more effort and it slows you down some. It was on the downhill side so that helped. It was a rather lonely day as I hiked in complete silence all day. I missed not having Gator behind me. Met some trail maintenance folks wielding saws and branch cutters. These are some of the fine people who remove debris from the trail. In due time all of the trees and branches that block the trail will be removed by these volunteers. We (hikers) really appreciate what they do.I again was having some serious problems with my foot and even tho I arrived at the shelter early I decided to stay. I have a big day tomorrow so I gave it a rest and massaged and soaked it. The weather has been outstanding I am almost thawed out from the first 3 weeks of being on the trail. Tenting in an area by myself doesn't feel weird but when you spend a night in a shelter alone it does. Needless to say I had plenty of room to spred my stuff out.
Date: 2010-04-06
From: Clyde Smith Shelter

To: Overmountain Shelter
Miles today: 13.1
Weather: scattered clouds

Began the day very early. I was eager to get on the trail after being by myself most of yesterday and all of last night. The day began with a climb out of shelter and continued up. It would be a solid morning of upwardness that would bring me up the last 6000fter Mt Roen until I reach New Hampshire. Within an hour of hiking a voice from behind me calls out STRIDER. The sound of a familiar voice lifted my spirits immediatly. It was Lil Buddah. He stopped and chatted a little then went on ahead. I met him again soon after on a rocky point with a great lookout to the north. We got a chance to admire the beauty that we saw and communicate that vision with how we see and what we feel. He has a wonderful perspective and a kind word to say about everone he has contact with. He is a seasoned hiker and indeed a bright light on this trail. I enjoy his company very much. The hike up Roen was everything a 6000ft mountain should be. Steep, rocky, muddy, icy and a bit snowy at the top. It was early in the day so my foot handled the climb just fine. My goal was to stop at the shelter just beyond the top. Over the top the trail decended to the northside. Whamo! Snow up the yingyang. Even worse the snow was melting and a stream was gushing down the trail under the snow. It was indeed a heads down. Hang on to your poles, watch your every step decent. These conditions lasted for most of the way down the mountain and before I realized it I was way beyond the shelter and hoping for a dry spot to take a break. At first I was trying to avoid walking directly down the middle of the trail turned river but it was no use so I trudged along and got my boots wet on the inside for the very first time. It was because the water went over the top. The next thing I new I was at Culvers Gap. Crossed the street and headed up a place called Round Top. It was another one of those fields called balds that are completely void of trees and completely covered by grass. I took my lunch there in the sunshine with great views all around. Made my way to the next shelter which is a barn that has been converted. It sits in a valley on the side of Yellow Mountain. This valley was the site of a Revolutioary crossing that 1000 men used to fight off the British. It was the most awesome location yet. The backside was open to the air and looked down the valley and the mountains that rose and fell both near and far. Butter and Grandma had a snack and moved on. A day hiker was there as was 2 dads with their boys for an overnighter. A little later Frost came in and spent the night.
Date: 2010-04-07
From: Overmountain Shelter

To: Mountaineer Shelter
Miles today: 18.0
Weather: overcast clouds

Today marks 1 month that I have been hiking this trail. Time has gone by fast and I feel that I got my groove on. The daily routine has been established and I am enjoying each and every day. The work is hard but rewarding. All the people I have met have been interesting and focused on doing what needs to get done. The terrain changes every day and there is always that sense of wonder of what is up ahead. The day began with 4 miles up and over a couple more balds with great views on another sunny day. Then it dropped 5 miles with both steep and moderate trail conditions. 1 mile before the gap road crossing was the shelter and I stopped in for lunch and to take advantage of the stream to soak my feet. Then it was back up again. I was passed by Frost and then by Dreamcatcher and Pine. Frost is older like me but moves rather quickly. The other two are 20ish and move with young legs. I used to dream about women and acquiring large quantities of cash but now I dream about having young legs again. The ones I have been using are still not sure about this whole thing. I promised them plenty of cold beer when I get to Damascus and noticed a marked improvement. Later in the afternoon I arrived at Jones Falls which is a nice spot to listen to cascading water rolling and falling down the rocky face. I soaked my feet there again. I was going to stop 2 miles further and camp on the Elk River but decided to go for the shelter another 2.9 miles away. It was a brand new shelter planned and built by someone who understands the needs of hikers. Plenty of cooking room, ladders in front and on the sides to get to the upper level, plenty of hooks to hang gear. Nice job. My biggest milage day yet.