morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2015-05-30
From: Priest Shelter

To: Maupin Shelter
Miles today: 13.8

We hit the trail today early starting at 6:32 a.m.   I knew we had a 3000 foot climb; but thought since we were doing only 13 miles or so it would be an easy day. I was dead wrong. The AT chewed me up and spit me out. The day also turned hot and muggy. The climb off the Priest Mountain was very rocky and the climb up Three Ridges seemed to take forever; but the summit did come. On the way down, we bounced off the rocks.Although there is a shelter with plenty of room, we are tenting. Hopefully, tomorrow will be a better day!
Date: 2015-05-31
From: Maupin Shelter

To: Paul Wolfe Shelter
Miles today: 15.8

Left camp at 6:19 a.m. Philco and I are very compatible as we are both early risers. Nothing out of the ordinary today. There were some small hills and lots (I mean lots) of rocks. The views were nice with the exception of the unsightly condos next to a ski area. I guess one will have to expect this as I move north.Let me say once again I really appreciate the e-mails, comments, and words of encouragement. They mean a lot and help keep me moving north.I do have some pictures and will upload them when I get to Waynesville tomorrow.
Date: 2015-06-01
From: Paul Wolfe Shelter

To: US 250 Waynesboro, VA
Miles today: 6.8
Weather: mist

Departed camp about 6:30 a.m this morning. We were glad we decided to stay in the shelter last night. A very mean storm moved through about 10:00 and put on quite a display of the power of nature. It was a short quick hike to the Blue Ridge Parkway where a trail angel shuttled us a few miles to Waynesboro. The day consisted of a shower at the YMCA, a huge breakfast at the local diner, and laundry along with a haircut at a barber shop that reminded me of Floyd's Barber Shop on the Andy Griffith show.A very nice church basement hostel is our home for the night. I can't say enough about Southern hospitality. It is much appreciated. Tomorrow will be a late start because I have to get a new backpack. I can't tighten the waist belt on my pack due to the temporary belly melt.
Date: 2015-06-02
From: Cornelius Creek Shelter

To: Johns Hollow Shelter
Miles today: 21.4
Weather: light rain

My wife dropped me off where the spur trail goes into Cornelius Creek Shelter from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Once again it was hard to hike away and leave her. It blows my mind that she was back home in Northern Wisconsin before I had my mileage in for the day.The weather is still hot and humid. By the time I finished the first climb up Apple Orchard Mountain by the FAA Tower, I was wringing wet with sweat.The ups and downs continued until we made our final descent to the James River. I was going to stop at Matt's Creek Shelter, but it was early; so decided to trek the extra four miles to get to the Johns Hollow Shelter. The highlight of the day was crossing the AT bridge over the James River which is the longest bridge on the AT.
Date: 2015-06-03
From: US 250 Waynesboro, VA

To: US 250 Waynesboro,VA
Miles today: 0.0

We had planned on getting a late start today and getting out to the first shelter in SNP. That did not happen. We spent most of the morning on a city bus to and from Wally World to get a new power cord for my phone battery pack which broke last night. Philco is still soaking his feet in Epsom Salts. I also bought a new backpack since I could not tighten the waist belt on my old pack due to my immense weight loss. We have a shuttle scheduled to take us back to the AT tomorrow for 8:00 a.m. The rest won't hurt this old bag of bones.
Date: 2015-06-04
From: Rockfish Gap

To: Blackrock Hut
Miles today: 19.6
Weather: light rain

If you noticed the destination above, the shelters are now called huts in the Shenandoah Park. I don't really know why. There is nothing fancy here as my tent is set up on a pile of rocks. It is raining and has been all day; but that is the life on the AT. Every day is an adventure.The hike was quite nice today as the rain was light. We shuttled out to the trailhead at 8:00 a.m. which is a bit late for us. We hike almost 20 miles today. The trail, for the most part, was gentle Philco had his new shoes and Papa Al had his new pack; so we were both happy hikers. My pack is 3 pounds lighter than the old one which makes quite a difference. Also, with the smaller waist belt, I can tighten it and carry more weight on my hips which is where it belongs. The word is we will be able to get a cheeseburger about seven miles up the trail at a park wayside. Now that is living!Time to get some sleep. This old coot is tired. It is nice hiking with Philco. He is a good man.
Date: 2015-06-05
From: Blackrock Hut

To: Pinefield Hut
Miles today: 13.2
Weather: overcast clouds

Packed up a wet tent and headed North about 6:30 this morning. The early morning was fog and gloom lifted about 10:00 when we stopped at Loft Mountain Store for a Honey Bun, V8 juice, and coffee. We left the store and hiked about a mile and headed down a steep 1/2 mile spur to a wayside for a cheeseburger, sweet potato fries, and a blackberry shake. Guess it was just time to relax and have a little fun. We did manage to hang out our tents and equipment to dry. Also, I did take a bath in the restaurant sink.We hiked back up the mountain for a total of a mile that is off the record. So it was a rather short day at 13.2 miles. I would like to be in Harpers Ferry by next Friday. I have to try and be in New Jersey by June 30, to meet the grandkids, who will help me celebrate my 69th birthday.This hike has become mostly mental. My legs are in good shape from all the hiking; but mentally it is up and down almost hourly some days. While in Waynesboro, I received word that a few of my trail friends have hung it up. I will miss them; but know they gave it all they had. It is still my intention to finish. Time will tell.
Date: 2015-06-06
From: Pinefield Hut

To: Lewis Mountain Campground
Miles today: 19.8

Left Pinefield Shelter at 5:50 this morning. We had 19.8 miles to get to our destination and wanted to get there in time for a shower, do laundry, and eat one of everything they have in the camp store.The day started off with a climb as they usually do out of the shelter or hut as they are called here in the SNP (Shenandoah National Park) The weather was foggy until about noon. Thus we missed many good views; but once the sun burned through, it was a beautiful day. At about 8:00 this morning I passed the 900 mile mark.I ran into my German friend Hoff a few times today. We started within minutes of each other at Springer Mountain and 900 miles later we are still in the same bubble. Hiking the Shenandoah Park is a lot different than the remote areas we have been passing through.   There are services available every 20 miles or so. Tomorrow for lunch we will have a cheeseburger and our shelter will be a room at the Skyland Resort. We will be living the good life for awhile. But you know, this old tent really isn't that bad. We have been through a lot of nights together.Every morning we get up and walk. It is almost automatic. You look up once in a while for a white blaze and just keep hiking. I wonder what it will feel like when I finish?There are several long gradual climbs that I have a tendency to take too fast. They ultimately wears me down. Philco took one bad fall; but the only thing hurt was his pride and we are thankful for that.
Date: 2015-06-07
From: Lewis Mountain Campground

To: Skyland Resort
Miles today: 16.7

Left camp by 6:30 and hiked about eight miles and had a big breakfast at Big Meadows wayside. From there, the trail got quite rocky and slowed us down a bit. We finally made it to Skyland where we would have a roof and a shower. Tomorrow's plan is around 20 miles; but the forecast calls for severe storms; so we will see.I have a short journal entry tonight--PaPa Al is tired.
Date: 2015-06-08
From: Skyland Resort

To: Stealth Campsite
Miles today: 19.0

Last night Philco and PaPa Al stayed at the Skyland Resort. This was my idea and a very poor one. We should have stealth camped. For those of you coming up the trail in the future, beware of this place as it is greatly overpriced. For what should have been a $50.00 room charge, the price was $117.00 and my bride beat them down from $140.00 when making the reservation. The place is in dire need of maintenance. There is no wifi nor tv in the room. Thank you for listening to my rant.Now back to our hike. There were severe storm warnings out for this afternoon, so we got on the trail about 5:40 a.m. The day was up and down with some beautiful views. Rocks again were the flavor of the day for most of the hike. I did get to hike in the area where I ran the Manuttsen 100 miler several years ago which brought back some pleasant memories.After 18 miles, we made it to a wayside just before a storm moved through and the sky let loose. After weathering the storm inside consuming a cheeseburger and fries, we moved up the trail and set up our tent and hung our bear bags just before another thunderstorm passed through. Timing is everything in this business. We were in our tents by 5:45 P.M. due to inclement weather and no cell service. So will try to get this out tomorrow.
Date: 2015-06-09
From: Stealth Campsite

To: Front Royal Hostel
Miles today: 14.6

We left our campsite at 5:57 this morning. It rained last night, but quit during the night. Thus with the winds, I was able to pack up a dry tent. The excitement of the day was seeing a sow bear and two cubs about 10 yards off the trail The Cubs climbed up a tree while Mama just kind of hung around. After taking a few pictures, we headed out.We also stopped at a shelter for lunch. When I came back to the AT, I turned south. Good thing I noticed before heading too far down the trail.Staying at a hostel tonight and will slack pack back here tomorrow.
Date: 2015-06-10
From: Front Royal Hostel

To: Trico Tower Tril
Miles today: 16.5

We did not get shuttled out to the trailhead until 8:30 a.m. which is a very late start for us. However, the Two Car Lady did pull up to Dunkin Donuts so it worked out good.The trail was gentle with some rocks and climbs; but the landscape is changing now that we are out of the park. We had lunch at a shelter with a solar heated shower. Now that is special!WE are spending our last night at the Front Royal Terrapin Hostel. It is a great place. Tomorrow I may hit a thousand miles or be awful close. We then progress to the Roller Coaster which is a series of thirteen climbs. That with the heat may slow us down a bit.
Date: 2015-06-11
From: Trico Tower Tril

To: Sam Moore Shelter
Miles today: 17.8
Weather: overcast clouds

Tonight my tent is at a shelter that is 999.9 miles on the trail. 1/10 mile in the morning will ease me into the one thousand mile mark. This is a real trail motivator for me. I can't see the barn yet; but there is a small light at the end of the tunnel. Again today we got a late start due to the shuttle. We were on the trail at 8:18 a.m. The first half of our day was fairly easy. Then we hit what is called the Roller Coaster which is a series of back to back climbs for 13.5 miles. It is the last kick in the butt from Virginia. To make matters worse, the trail is mostly rocks and the weather is hot and humid. We are about halfway through this and will finish it in the cooler morning air on fresh legs. Soon we will be out of Virginia. I have been in this state for 550 miles. Although I love the people here, it is time for my exit.
Date: 2015-06-12
From: Sam Moore Shelter

To: David Lesser Memorial Shelter
Miles today: 14.2
Weather: overcast clouds

We started our hike by 6:20 a.m., but did not beat the heat. It also started early. I crossed the 1000 mile mark 1/10 mile from the shelter. But even better, six miles out we stepped out of Virginia and into West Virginia. This may not seem like a big deal, but I have been in Virginia 550 miles with only four states down.The miles came hard today, so at lunch we took a very steep downhill spur to the Blackburn AT Center for our free can of pop. This was a really nice hostel and would have enjoyed a stay here; but we had a few more miles to hike. It was really tough getting off that swing in the big screened in porch to continue our hike.Got to the shelter about four and set up my tent just before a couple of storms rolled through. The hike to the spring for water was 1/4 mile back downhill. In flip flops, it was a little rough going   That is 1/2 mile round trip to fetch enough water for supper. I guess a little exercise won't hurt us. However, when I get home and turn on the kitchen faucet, it will be appreciated.
Date: 2015-06-13
From: David Lesser Memorial Shelter

To: Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Miles today: 8.7
Weather: overcast clouds

Left camp at 6:00 a.m. sharp. I didn't get much sleep last night as a bunch of week-enders came in loud, shining bright headlights, etc. around midnight and 2:00 a.m.   No respect for us old thru-hikers.A Nero day over lots of rocks. We arrived at the Conservancy and were treated to the hiker lounge for a cool down and then proceeded to have a photo opportunity. I was hiker number 575.Philco and I headed toward the hostel very hungry with not much hope of getting breakfast. The Lord did provide once more. Papa Al spotted a sign outside a church for a ayce (all you can eat) pancake breakfast for $7.00. I would bet they lost money on us!We had to resupply in Harpers Ferry since buses don't run on the week-ends. Very expense--but what is one going to do.We are staying at Teahorse Hostel which is a very nice place that offers a waffle breakfast in the morning. Then we head out into Maryland.
Date: 2015-06-14
From: Appalachian Trail Conservancy

To: Dahlgren Backpack Campground
Miles today: 17.8
Weather: scattered clouds

Before I get started with today's hike, let me mention a couple of things that happened at the hostel last night. One is in regards to what my trail buddy Philco did. One of the ladies in the hostel offered us about a dozen white powdered donuts. Papa Al was busy getting ready for the next day's hike, so I had one and gave the bag to Philco. After I was done with my chores, I noticed an empty bag in the trash. When I mentioned this to him; all I got was a large grin. The nice lady then offered me two chocolate donuts and he had the nerve to grab one of those! If there are any attorneys out there in readership land--is this grounds for a divorce???Secondly, as we were sitting around asking where everyone is from, it came out that a nice young lady lived about a couple of miles from my home and I worked with her aunt and uncle for years. Small world.Today's hike did not start until 7:30a.m. because the hostel had a wonderful waffle breakfast that we did not want to miss. A mile after getting back on the trail, we crossed the Potomac River and were in Maryland--our sixth state with eight more to go. We followed the canal tow path for about three miles; the easiest hiking I've had since Springer Mountain. After that, there were a couple of climbs; but mostly rolling hills with a good share of rocks. Although, for the most part, it was a pretty good section of trail. Tonight the campground we are at offers showers, water you don't have to filter, and flushing toilets. An all this is free to backpackers brought to us by the Maryland DNR. Thank you Maryland DNR.We had two choices for supper--an eloquent club right up the road or pizza. This place is a hikers dream. We went with the pizza since the supper club would not let us in unless we showered and shaved. I did shower; but darned if I will shave. Oh, and the pizza was great and I got to eat it with my hiker trash buddies! My new shoes my wife mailed to the ATC fit like a dream; the rocks feel a bit better now.
Date: 2015-06-15
From: Dahlgren Backpack Campground

To: Raven Rock Shelter
Miles today: 18.8
Weather: light rain

The day started when I awoke at 4:30 a.m. to check the weather radar on my phone. It had been raining all night, but I could see about a half hour break between storms. I woke Philco and we got our tents down and packed. Shortly thereafter, the sky let loose with a torrential downpour. So we sat in the men's room drinking coke and eating pop tarts till it let up. That is the glamorous life of a hiker.We did get moving shortly before 6:00 a.m. and at two miles we stopped at the original Washington Monument. We both climbed to the top; but took no pictures since it was still raining. The rain quit about mid morning giving way to some beautiful hiking weather.The first half of the day went smoothly. But then the rocks started. That made for rough going. Plus four liters of water we had to carry up the last hill made it a fairly hard day.Tomoorow we should hit Pennsylvania and the Mason Dixon line fairly early in the a.m.
Date: 2015-06-16
From: Raven Rock Shelter

To: Tumbling Run Shelter
Miles today: 13.2

Today we started out with a plan to hike 19.8 miles. We ended up doing 13.2. How did this happen? We both have been lacking in calorie intake; so when we got to Pennsylvania 16, we headed east into Blue Ridge Summit for 1.2 miles. Our plan was to hitch a ride. That did not work ; so we walked it. When we reached the diner, we both ordered the biggest breakfast on their menu. This wasn't enough for Philco (you remember he is the guy who ate all the donuts). He ordered a cheeseburger and chips. After that, we bought a few supplies and the fifth car that came by gave us a ride back to the trail.The day's hike was highlighted by crossing the Mason Dixon Line and crossing over into our seventh state--Pennsylvania.   We actually crossed over our first snowmobile trail; that made me feel "at home".Philco and I both took a fall today coming down a rock bluff; but once again--no injuries.Way back around Mount Rogers, a hiker who was on the pompous side and who had slept and hiked with me several times could not remember my name. He said it does not pay to retain names till a hiker gets to Pennsylvania. Well, here I am!
Date: 2015-06-17
From: Tumbling Run Shelter

To: Birch Run Shelter
Miles today: 19.6
Weather: overcast clouds

The day started early. We were on the trail at 5:40 a.m. A steep 1000 foot climb greeted us right away which was a good warm up. Then, for a few miles, the trail ran on and off a rock ridge which was rough sledding; but I think it is just a hint of things to come.The highlight of our day was a short spur trail into Caledonia Park where I ate two cheeseburgers and a very large order of fries.The rest of the day except for one climb was pretty easy and uneventful. Tomorrow we will hit the halfway point in the a.m. With the threat of rain, we headed for the shelter; but the only thing left were two top bunks. Two young girls hiking with their father and uncle gave up their bottom bunks to us old coots. Again, the people are the best part of the trail.
Date: 2015-06-18
From: Birch Run Shelter

To: James Fry (Tagg Run) Shelter
Miles today: 17.1

Highlights of the day:1. Crossed halfway mark2. Crossed the thousand mile mark,3. Had cheeseburger and fries at Pine Grove State Park.It is Fig's 71at Birthday today. My 69th is coming on the 4th of July. Philco goes on Medicare July 1. Talk about an "Old Goats Club"!At some point in Northern Virginia, I may have caught the hand of this hiking thing. My legs feel like they are getting in shape. Mentally, I used to think about hanging it up two or three times a day. That doesn't happen anymore. Maybe, just maybe, there is hope for a finish.
Date: 2015-06-19
From: James Fry (Tagg Run) Shelter

To: Carlisle Pennsylvania
Miles today: 20.0

Left camp at 5:45 a.m. and had a series of four to five hundred foot climbs. Rabbit said they reminded her of a small roller coaster. On top of one climb was an area called the Rock Maze which was actually a lot of fun. I've included a couple of photos of the donut thief (Philco) working his way thru the maze. After the hills, we broke out into farmland which was flat and it remained that way for the rest of the day.Upon entering Boiling Springs, we checked into the local ATC office and they lent us a couple of bikes to pedal to the grocery store. About four miles north, we received trail magic in the form of a cheeseburger and coke provided by a couple of thru hikers and their visiting wives. Bless them. Soon we popped out of the woods and crossed the very loud and irritating Pennsylvania Turnpike. We are staying at a Super 8 in Carlisle and will head out in the morning. Hopefully, we can reach Duncannon before the predicted big storm hits.
Date: 2015-06-20
From: Carlisle Pennsylvania

To: Duncannon, PA
Miles today: 17.6

This will be short because I am extremely tired this evening. The rocks of Pennsylvania are taking their toll. The day had a beautiful start except for the 1/2 mile hike down US 11 to get back on the trail. Rolling farmland graced our hike for the first nine miles. After that, it was back to the woods and a tough, long, rocky section all the way to Duncannon.With the predicted storms rolling through, we are at the famous Doyle Hotel. This is a landmark 1930 era hotel which is a little bit rustic. The owners and food are great and it is all a part of the adventure. I have been running into people I have not seen since my second night on the trail as well as other close friends I have made since the start. I have several photos for your viewing pleasure. ON JUNE 29 OR JUNE 30, I AM LOOKING FOR A SHUTTLE SERVICES FROM EITHER DELAWARE WATER GAP, PA OR WIND GAP, PA TO VERNON, NEW JERSEY. IF THERE ARE ANY LEADS OUT THERE, I WOULD APPRECIATE A MESSAGE.
Date: 2015-06-21
From: Duncannon, PA

To: Peters Mountain Shelter
Miles today: 11.0
Weather: broken clouds

Hiked out of town at 7:00 a.m. after a good breakfast. We encountered some decent climbs; but then mostly ridge walking over rocks. We enjoyed some pretty views and met numerous day hikers. Thru hikers seem to be getting scarce. It was a short day due to shelter and water spacing. My tent is all set up and prepared for an early start. The spring here is 300 steps down a very steep hill. I received Father's Day wishes from my three children today. That was nice. I also got to FaceTime my youngest granddaughter which was special. She put on her bear hat to scare me.
Date: 2015-06-22
From: Peters Mountain Shelter

To: Rauschenberg Gap Shelter
Miles today: 18.0

The day started early. We left the shelter at 5:50 a.m. The sun was shining and it looked to be a beautiful day. Most of the morning was again a ridge walk. As the hike progressed, we dropped down, crossed a highway, and began to climb for a very long time. The trail offered plenty of rocks and water. I am glad we only did 18 miles today. A rattlesnake slithered out between a mother and daughter just ahead of us. Also, a couple of bear were seen along the trail.We've encountered a very nice level tent spot. It even has four lawn chairs made out of rock around the fire pit.
Date: 2015-06-23
From: Rauschenberg Gap Shelter

To: 501 Shelter
Miles today: 17.5
Weather: overcast clouds

We left at 5:45 this morning to beat the heat. But once again, the heat beat us. The trail started out wet. In previous years, I guess water was a problem. This year, it is all over the place; ankle deep on the trail. I did a small hill climb. It was not much by AT standards; although because of the heat it got our attention. That was the start of the climb of the day. Before we topped out, Philco and I took a break. Once on top, as always, the rocks started and they were a little more severe.The last couple of miles I was almost on a trot trying to beat the afternoon storms to the shelter which I did; but not by much.Once again I would like to mention how much my wife has helped me on this adventure. When I call with a request, it is taken car of. Also, when I call whining about coming home, I am told to eat something and keep going. Without her, I would not still be on the trail. Today I crossed the minus 1000 mile mark. It seems ludicrous, but I think Papa Al has a shot at this.