morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2013-03-11
From: Mooney Gap

To: Rock Gap
Miles today: 7.6

Cold Rain.A little background: After leaving the Blueberry Patch Hostel, Hoosier realized that he had left his raincoat on a peg back at the Hostel. Using his cell phone he was able to arrange for it to be delivered to Franklin, North Carolina, a trail town we were headed towards. The fact that he wouldn't have rain gear for 3 days or more concerned us, since we heard that there was a rain in the forecast. The sky was clear last night when we went to sleep, but overnight the wind picked up and the rain began. We were up early and packed up quickly in the rain. Without his rain gear Hoosier wore my down jacket, but it is not waterproof and it soon became soggy. The plan was to hike quickly to ward off hypothermia. First up was Albert Mountain (5,240 feet). The final 0.3 miles of the ascent were the most intense rock scrambling/climbing that we have encountered so far. At the top is a 50 foot tall fire tower that gives hikers a 360 degree view of the area. But not on this day. We were in a cold, wet cloud. Hoosier always hikes fast, but on this day, he was flying. He was right on the edge of serious hypothermia. The prudent thing for us to do was to get out of the wind and cold rain as soon as possible. We had been told about a local resident who serves hikers on the AT as part of her local churches ministry. We called this trail angel who didn't know us and we didn't know her and she immediately agreed to pick us up at the first road crossing that we came to. She drove us to the local outfitter in Franklin where Hoosier's rain gear had been delivered. When we got out of the rain and warmed up Hoosier stopped shivering. We are very grateful!Now we are being treated royally by relatives of members of the church that Hoosier served in Indiana. Graciously they allowed us to spread our wet stuff all over their basement. They also took us into town to re-supply at a grocery store, and we are now all set for the next 4-5 day stretch to Fontana Damn, where we will resupply before entering the Great Smokey Mountain National Park.I am feeling very fortunate. Our situation could have been much worse. And now it is in our rear view mirror. I know a lot of hikers are not comfortable tonight. They were not close enough to a road to be able to get to a place where they could dry out and warm up.The weather forecast is for continuing below-average temperatures until this weekend, when it should warm up. But most importantly, they predict that it will be dry for the next seven days. We'll see. I'll check to make sure Hoosier has his rain gear before we head back onto the trail.
Date: 2013-03-13
From: Wayah Bald

To: Nantahala River
Miles today: 17.2

It was COLD last night and this morning, but I was out of my sleeping bag in time to watch the sun rise over a distant mountain range. Wayah Bald takes its place among other memorable "mountaintop experiences" that I have had.Unexpectedly, it remained cold all day. My winter cap and gloves never came off. It was the kind of day that you quickly got chilled if you took a break from hiking. Early in the day, Hoosier and I realized we had two options.Option 1: We could hike 10-13 miles and experience another cold, low 20's night where all hikers would be huddled for warmth in their sleeping bags by dusk.Option 2: We could push ourselves to make it to the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC), which the trail passes as it crosses the Nantahala River. There, we could eat a hamburger in the restaurant and stay in a warm, but crowded, hostel, thus guaranteeing interaction with other hikers.What would you do?There was one challenging early afternoon climb. Then the last four miles were all downhill. Downhill is easier on the lungs, but when it is steep it can be tough on your knee joints. We camped at 5,432 feet last night and are at 1,723 feet tonight at Nantahala River. The day was made a little harder when the belt buckle on my pack broke, thus putting my pack weight all on my shoulders (I hope to get a new belt buckle at the NOC Outfitting Store in the morning). Hoosier and I were really tired and drained when we made it to the Nantahala River and the NOC. Unfortunately, and to our great disappointment, we arrived at 5:30pm which meant we were 30 minutes too late to get into the hostel since everything was already locked. We weren't aware of such an early closing time and admittedly were a bit frustrated. We hiked what seemed like an extra mile, trying to find someone to assist us with finding a place to stay. On this night the NOC did not seem hiker friendly to us. The end result was that Hoosier and I had to call a local number of a "motel" that offers hikers cheap lodging. They picked us up and we are now a mile away from the trail in a renovated (yet still pretty run down) mobile home for the night. It's not fancy but it is warm. We did eat in the restaurant at the NOC and get the big hamburger that we had craved. It seems that the primary focus here is on rafting and kayaking trips. The restaurant is right on the river and while eating dinner (if it was warmer) you would be able to watch the kayaks and rafts navigate a nice set of rapids.
Date: 2013-03-15
From: Sassafras Gap Shelter

To: Cody Gap
Miles today: 11.9

In praise of plodders.Great comradery around the fire last night with Crow, Z, Steven, Grr, and Amtrak. Amtrak, Grr, and Steven are all excellent outdoorsmen. They have the proper gear and handle themselves well. They are also a little older and may be carrying a few extra pounds around the middle. At this point early in the journey they usually hike between 8-10 miles a day. Usually they hike from one shelter to the next shelter. They are plodders, and I have a great deal of respect for their persistence and tenacity. Grrr and Steven have already hiked over 150 trail miles. Grr says he is staying on the trail til the end because if he quits his wife will make him start painting their house. It took Amtrak at least 2 1/2 hours more than it took Hoosier and I to do the 6.9 mile, 3000 foot climb up from the Nantahala River yesterday. But he came into camp smiling. He grinned and said that he didn't pass anyone on the trail. I responded, "except all the people who didn't even take the first step." Early this afternoon Hoosier and I were surprised by a section of the trail that we later learned is called Jacob's Ladder. The trail went straight up, no switch-backs, just a steep uphill that quickly had us sucking for air. We both silently decided we were going to make it without stopping (and we did). It was a very physically demanding challenge. And it was part of a day that featured a lot of rough terrain. Part of what makes the comradely so great on the trail is that every thru-hiker conquers Jacob's Ladder. Grr, Steven, and Amtrack did Jacob's Ladder today. I didn't see them do it, but I know they did. It must have been very difficult for them, but they made it to the top and moved on. As plodders, they just kept at it. It is unlikely that Hoosier and I will see these men again, but I will remember them. And the next time I think that I can't do something, I'll remember that if I just keep on plodding, one step at a time, I'll get to where I am going.I enjoyed building another camp fire tonight. Hoosier and I shared it with three men that we just met who are doing a section hike. We have a lot in common with them, and they were a real encouragement...plus, they gave us each a Snickers Bar.
Date: 2013-03-16
From: Cody Gap

To: Fontana Dam
Miles today: 10.2
Weather: few clouds

Two week review.Hoosier and I chose to split the section from NOC to Fontana Dam into three days and so we could fully enjoy the journey.Today was actually the first day on the trip that I got hot while hiking...which felt good. The view of Fontana Dam and the lake was really beautiful as we descended from 3600 feet to 1700 feet. (It's interesting to me how five hours of significant effort is captured in just two sentences.)As we came in to Fontana Dam, we were met by Dave, a terrific friend of Hoosier's. Dave gave us our pre-packed resupply boxes for the next section through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, and he arranged for us to stay together in a nice cabin. In our pre-trip conversations we thought we might take a zero-day here, but the pace of the last three days has us feeling strong and ready to head out again tomorrow. Hoosier and I have decided that the word used most often by the thru-hikers we have met about the Smokies is "fear," especially fear of bad weather on the exposed ridges. Fear is not what we are feeling. I think we have a proper respect for and are properly prepared for whatever challenges may come. Since we have now finished two weeks on the trail, I thought I'd review how we are doing. Prominent emotions: gratefulness and delight. Physically: no particular aches and no blisters. Hiking partnership with Hoosier: smooth, we fit well together in our styles and goals. Contact with other hikers: friendly, open, interesting, diverse. Gear: Jet Boil Stove, A+. Arcteryx Pack, A. Mountain House dinners, A+. Squeezable bottle water filter, D- (I gave it away and now use chemicals, which is easier and lighter). Overall experience: continues to exceed my expectations.
Date: 2013-03-17
From: Fontana Dam

To: Mollies Ridge Shelter
Miles today: 10.7
Weather: broken clouds

Smokies Day #1.Today we took a lot of uphill steps. After a great breakfast with Z, we started out at 1,871 feet of elevation as we walked across the Fontana Dam. Then, in the next 7.5 miles, we ascended to Doe Knob at 4,520 feet. In the next 1.4 miles, we descended 700 feet to a Ekaneeklee Gap at 3,842 feet. Then we finished with an 800 foot uphill to Mollies Ridge Shelter. A good day of hiking. We are grateful for great hiking weather that allowed us to enjoy all the views. Our packs are a bit heavier as we are carrying enough food for the 72 miles in the National Park.All day yesterday, as we descended to Fontana Dam we could look across and see the Old Shuckstack Fire Tower high on a distant ridge. It was fun to see where we were headed, although it can also be daunting. To get to the base of the Fire Tower today meant taking a third of a mile side trail off the AT. I wanted to go up it and Hoosier chose to take a break and wait at the trail junction for me to return. So I was alone as I climbed this rickety-looking steel tower with wood steps and small railings. I made it up to the next to the last wooden landing before letting my fears and cautious side convince me that was high enough. I tried to take the 360 degree view of the lake and mountains all in but found that was impossible. It was to overwhelming. Early in the day we were surprised to see Grrr on the trail as we climbed up from Fontana dam. He had gotten a very early start and said he would see us at the shelter this evening. Not only was the day a hard climb but it was also the first day on the journey that we didn't find water easily. So when Hoosier and I made it to the shelter and its water source we drank deeply. Quite a bit later we were still the only ones there. We were sitting on the bench enjoying a cup of coffee when Grrr arrived. He was dehydrated and exhausted. We told him to just sit down and we immediately gave him both cold water and then a cup of coffee. Then Grrr simply started talking to Hoosier. They are both Vietnam era veterans and share a deep connection. Their conversation was emotional and personal. I left them alone so they could talk.
Date: 2013-03-19
From: Derrick Knob Shelter

To: Mount Collins Shelter
Miles today: 13.5

We woke up early this morning to clear skies, milder winds, and temps in the mid 20's. Even after a morning of hiking, my toes and fingers remain cold. But I am getting used to it...or at least I'm stoic about it. The clear skies are affording us incredible views. It was a great day to be at Clingman's Dome, the highest point on the A.T. The trail descending from the summit was steep, ice-covered, and slippery. It was pretty intense and precarious for the first mile or so. Two nights ago, at a shelter with Grrr, we also befriended and enjoyed the company of a dad, his daughter, and her two friends who were students at Georgia Tech. Their goal was to make it to the same shelter as us last night. We were concerned for them and prayed for them because of the bad storm we were all in yesterday. They did not make it to the shelter we were at so we could only hope they had turned back and were safely at an earlier shelter. We had internet service today at Clingmans Dome, and it was neat to get an email from their wife/mom. They knew we would be concerned about them and had asked her to contact us to let us know they were okay. They had taken shelter early yesterday and decided to get off the trail today. Which was a wise decision because they really did not have the proper gear for the unexpected conditions. We have met small groups (usually 3-4 hikers) of spring break section hikers from Calvin College, Hope College, Tufts University, Georgia Tech, Rutgers, and Clemson. All have been just great.The sky is clear. Though it may not be warm, it's an amazing contrast to yesterday. We are enjoying it.
Date: 2013-03-21
From: Peck's Corner Shelter

To: Cosby Knob Shelter
Miles today: 12.9
Weather: clear sky

Snow.We woke up blanketed in a cloud, with 3-5 inches of snow on the ground (depending on what side of the mountain, and how high the elevation), and temperatures, according to one source, at nine degrees. Frankly, we were cold and miserable, but not complaining at all. Hoosier and I just doggedly did what we needed to do to hit the trail and get moving. All day I carried two water bottles that were full and frozen solid. That was not smart on my part. The night before I either should have emptied the water bottles, or taken them in my sleeping bag so that they would not freeze. The first four miles were hard, really tough in the cold and conditions. There was a shelter at 5.2 miles. We thought we'd just make it that far and then stop and regroup. But then the clouds blew off and we had bright sunshine and incredible views. It never really warmed up, especially on the western exposed side of the ridges, but it was a winter wonderland, too beautiful to not enjoy. View after view was spectacular, so we kept on and completed our full goal for the day. Z spent most of the day with us. He is also the only other person in the shelter with us tonight. When we stopped at 5.2 miles, we spoke honestly about how challenging the morning had been. We all agreed that nature both humbles us and awes us. We are very thankful for another day with great views. Despite the challenges, we know that it has not been as hard as it could be. Despite it being early, we are all huddled in our sleeping bags trying to stay warm. Tylenol PM will help with the long hours laying on these hard, wooden boards. It has been a good day. I'm glad to have experienced it.
Date: 2013-03-22
From: Cosby Knob Shelter

To: Pigeon River
Miles today: 9.5
Weather: overcast clouds

As the sun was peaking over the ridge, Hoosier, Z, and I were struggling to put on our boots. Each of our boots were frozen so stiff that it seemed impossible for us to get our feet into them. To try to soften up our boots we were literally beating them on the rocks and on the boards of the lean-to. As we were squeezing our toes into our boots and pulling and yanking with numb painful fingers, Z (who grew up in Israel and California)paused, got my attention and said, "Actually, I am quite amused by this. This kind of cold and snow is all new to me." My immediate cognitive response was that with an attitude like that he'll complete his thru-hike. (Post Note: In 2013 nearly 2,300 hikers started with the goal of being thru-hikers but only 17% actual accomplished the feat. Z was part of the 17%.)The first hours and miles of the day were very difficult. The temperature was certainly in the single digits and the wind chill made it feel even colder. It did snow overnight and we were the first to blaze the trail through 6 inches of fresh snow. We gained elevation in the morning as we again climbed to over 5,000 feet.The entire feel of the day changed as we descended to lower elevations and prepared to depart the Great Smokies Mountain National Park. When we finished our day at Pigeon River we were at 1,400 feet. There was no snow on the ground and the effort was no more than required when taking an enjoyable leisurely walk in the woods. I love mountain streams, so I particularly enjoyed the last mile along a tumbling stream. TRAIL MAGIC FROM FRESH GROUND AGAIN!For the third time, we came upon Fresh Ground. He had put a small sign up saying "Trail Magic ahead: Fresh Ground", and when I saw it and read it I actually got emotional and choked up. After the hard days it was so good to see him. He is moving north to serve us, as we move north. As scheduled we connected with Hoosier's friend, Dave, at the first road crossing after departing the National Park. Hoosier and I decided two days ago that we should take Dave up on his offer to take us to his home. We agreed that it was time to take our first zero day. Although neither of us have any particular aches and pains, we both felt a great weariness as we sat in his truck. When we let our bodies relax, it seems our bodies responded with a great sigh of relief. As I write this in the evening I have been very well fed, my clothes are all clean and I am warm and sitting in a comfy recliner, with a king size bed (all mine) awaiting me. Life is good.
Date: 2013-03-23
From: Pigeon River

To: Pigeon River
Miles today: 0.0

A zero day is good for the body and the soul. Today we are resting (and not restless) at Dave and Mary's beautiful home. We are slowly drinking cups of coffee, enjoying good food, and best of all pleasant encouraging conversations. I can't help but be full of joy and thankfulness.About 100 miles ago I wrote about meeting a college student who was doing a psychological study on AT thru-hikers. I wrote that I am sure that she will find that successful thru-hikers are rugged individuals who are independent, goal-oriented, persistent and not easily discouraged. But no matter how independent a person might be, no one does the trail alone. Everyone benefits from the trail community and from individuals back home. These supporters encourage us and are "trail angels" who with their "trail magic" lighten the load and add joy to the journey. I am thankful for:My daughter Katie: thanks for helping me each day with these journal entries when I wish I could be helping you.Terry Agal: your support right at the beginning made this possible (thanks for walking Abbey)Thanks to the many back home who have been so generous and supportive and encouraging. ON THE TRAIL: Dave and Mary, Gary and Lennie Poteat, Keith, Hopeful, Stride, Fresh Ground, Vapor, Chuck Norris and Tigger, Dale and Joyce, the Georgia Hiking Club, and all the AT volunteers who maintain the trail and privies.AND THANK YOU to everyone who reads these journal entries and has signed the guest book. It's fun and encouraging to have you along.
Date: 2013-03-24
From: Pigeon River

To: Max Patch Bald
Miles today: 14.9
Weather: light rain

We left the comfort of Dave and Mary's home and after the ride back to the trail stepped out into a cold rain. Every indication was that it was going to rain all day. We immediately gained elevation (as we always do after a road crossing or river) as we climbed Snowbird Mountain. We came to the summit at 4,263 feet soon after reaching the letter Z. Cold wind and rain with zero visibility was our reward at the summit, but, unexpectedly, the skies cleared, and we had a very comfortable afternoon of hiking. It was good to be in the woods and moving smoothly. Then I experienced yet another highlight of this trip. Late in the day we came to the dome-shaped and grass covered summit of Max Patch Bald (4,629 feet) and were afforded GREAT VIEWS in all directions. I took lots of pictures, but none of them, including the picture on this page can capture what I felt and saw. Because the sun was setting, we hiked about four tenths of a mile down from the summit and set up our tents in the first grove of trees that we came to. After a quick dinner I went alone back up to the summit. As dusk settled in I tried to focus and live fully in the moment. I could feel that a big storm was moving in. I looked to the south and already the big peaks in the Smokies were covered in thick clouds. The clouds grew darker and more menacing looking as I stood there. The wind was furious. The raw power of nature on display. I found myself wishing I could live in the mountains so as to be able to return to scenes like this more often. I was envying the people who lived in the homes that were visible to me as just dots of light in the valleys and mountain sides. My thoughts were getting off track and threatened to cause me to miss this moment of time even as I was lamenting that I couldn't enjoy more times like this. It was crazy. After a bit, it dawned on me, that the way to show my gratefulness for the chance to experience this particularly special moment, was to make sure that when I got back home I take time to open my eyes and embrace the special moments that occur there. I live close to Lake Michigan. I need to go to the lakeshore frequently in order to witness raw power on display as storms develop and come ashore; and to enjoy the amazing sunsets. On this night, at this moment, Max Patch Bald was an incredible, unforgettable place to be. And I have the mental videos to remember it. As I write this I am hunkered down and dry in my tent. A hard icy rain is falling and the wind is howling. The predictions we have heard say that by tomorrow morning we will have five inches or more of fresh snow. Stay tuned to see how my tent handles the increasingly strong winds and the expected snow...another adventure.