morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2008-04-11
From: Siler's Bald Shelter

To: Mt Collins Shelter
Miles today: 8.0
Weather: broken clouds

Day 4 in the SmokiesToday, our primary destination was Clingman's Dome, the highest point in the Smokies. A cloud enveloped the whole upper part of the mountain so we didn't even go up to see the spacey loooking observation platform.. We ate lunch and moved on. Last night's packed house at Siler's Bald was contrasted with just the "Smoky Six" at this shelter. It was especially nice as we celebrated both the completion of 200 miles on the AT and crossing over into Tennessee (state #3). A nice campfire was in order.Smoky's Summary (so far):Likes:Very pristine and spectacular views at times.Dislikes:Rules about use of shelters (okay, that's why it's pristine!)Water sources poorly marked in places.Not as special as I had hoped.
Date: 2008-04-12
From: Mt Collins Shelter

To: Ice Water Spring Shelter 
Miles today: 7.5
Weather: overcast clouds

Today was a very rewarding day from a human nature point of view. At the historic Indian Gap, which was the main travel point over the mountains for maybe centuries, we had some great trail magic. Jim, owner of Hike The Mountains. Com, a guide/ shuttle service and his folks, Josh & Cathy, really took care of us. Hot beans, cornbread,cake, and tea were passed out. Yum!! Thanks for the great magic, folks. Just before the popular Newfound Gap, some kind trail angel left cokes and goodies alongside the trail.After a visit in the gap, we made our way to the shelter where there was much talk of impending bad weather.A frequently discussed oddity on the trail is how thru hikers that smell, look glazed over, and much more can be such a tourist draw. At Newfound Gap, we had a steady line of interested folks asking great questions. Put that pack on and smell on at home and see what reaction you get!!
Date: 2008-04-13
From: Ice Water Spring Shelter 

To: Gatlinburg, TN
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

Shortly after reaching this shelter, which isjust out of Newfound Gap, we got our group together to discuss next day strategy. We were all anxious to exit the Smokies so doing extra miles was an option.After a very cold night in the 20's with light snow, we decided to get a weather check. We were alarmed to hear that temps would plunge over the next few days with noticeable snowfall occurring.Unfortunately, the cold night had caused Strider, Tracer, and Mustang Sally to leave early. Making a spontaneous decided, Chewy, New Song, & I headed back to the gap for a hitch into Gatlinburg. We are sorry that our friends did not get the word and we wish them safe days/nights.
Date: 2008-04-14
From: Gatlinburg, TN

To: Gatlinburg 
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: light rain

Imagine if you will, hiking for six days across some of the most pristine trails anywhere . Then, one day after a fifteen minute ride, you find yourself dropped in the middle of a small city that is all about the most frivolous ways to get your money. The shock to sensitivities is incredible.We expect to be here today and part of tomorrow since the storm doesn't hit til then. It could be Wednesday if they close the road back up to the traiHead. Until then, we'll do the town things.
Date: 2008-04-15
From: Gatlinburg 

To: Gatlinburg 
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

Another day here in Ripleyland. It's called that because they have 5 different places or themes to grab your $. Lots of places to eat but it's still Gatlinburg and not the trail.We're now waiting until the storm passes and we can get back to the mtns.
Date: 2008-04-16
From: Gatlinburg 

To: Peck's Corner Shelter 
Miles today: 7.4
Weather: clear sky

Finally, the roads to the top of the mtn are clear and we go back to Icewater Shelter where we got off.Later The hiking today was difficult as we dealt with frozen trail made bad by 5" of snow slightly melted and refrozen. Slow going at best.We are hearing stories about 5 degree nights with limited visibility during the storm. Rangers made some attempts to get people off of the mountain. Though Gatlinburg was tough to endure, we clearly made the right decision to be safe.Looking back on Gatlinburg , we were happy to get out. We shared our hotel with people much older than us (yes, even me) in town for a bridge tournament. One more day in town and we may have been figuring how many diamonds to bid instead of projected miles to hike.
Date: 2008-04-18
From: Cosby Knob Shelter 

To: Standing Bear Hostel
Miles today: 10.4
Weather: clear sky

Our last day in the smoky park was an all day downhill. We crunched knees but finally made an inauspicious departure of the park. No signs, no band, no dancing girls. It didn't matter however because we were heading to Standing Bear Hostel.On the way to the hostel, we crossed under Interstate 40, which for me, could have taken me straight to my home--not yet, got lots more to do!Standing Bear Farm and Hostel is a really great place. Curtis, the owner, runs the entire place on the honor system. You keep up with everything that you use and buy and settle up when you leave. Great guy, great place.So we're off now to Hot Springs in a few days with several options along the way. In other words, no more silly rules about where you can camp--yahoooo.
Date: 2008-04-19
From: Standing Bear Hostel

To: Grounghog Creek Shelter 
Miles today: 7.2
Weather: light rain

You may recall from yesterday that we did a solid 6 mile downhill into Standing Bear Hostel. The rule of thumb to expect is that every radical up or down will soon be followed by the reverse. We experienced that today as we climbed out of the 1600 ft elevation at the hostel back into the mountains.After summiting Sunbird Mtn., we dropped back a bit. Our little group of five Chewy, New Song, Tracer, Strider, me) made a team decision to stay at this shelter instead of pushing on 3 more miles and no shelter. We acknowledged that it was a bit "wussy" but we're happy to be here together.
Date: 2008-04-20
From: Grounghog Creek Shelter 

To: Walnut Mth Shelter 
Miles today: 13.1

In order to make our date with Hot Springs come true on Monday, it would require a strong hike day but more. For days, we have been hearing about a marauding bear at thIs shelter. When we arrived the evidence was there. A limb that had supported a food bag was broken and evidence that the bear had been responsible was clear. Notes left by previous shelter users indicated some scary nights.We gathered lots of firewood (as a deterrent) and prepared for a long night. Fortunately, a visit from Mr. Black did not occur and we enjoyed a night with fire blazing and a full moon overhead--a great trail night.As we broke camp, hikers from the previous shelter came through and told of a bizarre night with a 200 lb. Bear nosing within 10 ft of the inside of the shelter. Later, the bear visited a tent that had been vacated (wisely) and tore holes in the fabric.Needless to say, my little mouse fobia seems irrelevant now.
Date: 2008-04-21
From: Walnut Mth Shelter 

To: Hot Springs, NC
Miles today: 13.1
Weather: broken clouds

Our hike today into Hot Springs was very nice until the last 2.5 miles. As is frequently the case, the drops into these gap locations are brutally steep. By the time that we reached town, my knees were especially painful.After an evening of trying out the local food/beverage offering, we spent the night at an older mom/pop motel.The commitment to the trail and the day to day grind can be quite difficult. Home matters, physical pains, emotional concerns and the lot challenge the resolve each day. The desire to see the goal through must be a strong one.The personal bonds formed here are incredible, especially given the short time that we know each other. We care and look after each other in a significant way.Sadly, tonight we celebrated our friendship with New Song as she has decided to leave the trail. She wants to return to her Virginia farm, grow a nice summer garden, and spend time with her family. We will miss her positive approach to things and the time spent hiking with her each day. As we move through central VA, we look forward to visiting with her and tasting some of the fruits of her garden's labor.Much luck to you, New Song. We will miss you!The group consisting of Chewy, Strider, Tracer, and me remains totally committed to our hike and look forward to the challenges ahead.
Date: 2008-04-22
From: Hot Springs, NC

To: Hot Springs , NC
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: scattered clouds

Today was to have been a limited mileage day since resupply, a post office visit, and breakfast with New Song. However, after getting up, it was very clear that the radical descent into Hot Springs yesterday had put a fair amount of stress on my left knee. Unlike other similar heavy use days, the knee was not only stiff but sore to the touch. It has improved as the day has progressed so I am hopeful that there is no lasting damage. Anyway, the zero day was in order.I am not a superstitious person but I am beginning to wonder about the thing of bad events coming in pairs (or more). We learned today that our good friends , Strider & Tracer, will be leaving the trail at least for awhile because of a sudden death in the family. They now await transportation back to Minnesota. We are very sad about their loss and will miss them on the trail. I know that they are committed to the trail and will make every effort to get back when they are able. Good Luck, my friends.So Chewy and I take off tomorrow for the beginning of a week long hike to the next resupply town, Erwin, TN. Seven days of food on our backs isn't one of those things we're excited about. There is no alternative so we push on.We've met several new folks who are at our pace so you'll surely hear more of them in the next few days /weeks. Thanks for reading the journal and the messages that you leave. I truly appreciate it.
Date: 2008-04-23
From: Hot Springs , NC

To: Spring Mountain Shelter 
Miles today: 11.0
Weather: scattered clouds

Goodbyes were tough this morning witH our departing friends, New Song, Strider& Tracer. We have hiked with them for over 200 miles and enjoyed many common experiences.Today's hike out of Hot Springs was made tougher by warmer weather and by heavier packs. We are each carrying 7 days of food for the hike to Erwin, TN. The extra food adds maximum weight to everyone's pack.A reflection on Hot Springs :   Very hiker friendly Recognizes the value of the hikers to economicsWhere else would one go to dinner, notice the 83.5 health rating (out of 100) and not hesitate to order The main resupply is The Dollar General Sidewalks have embedded AT symbols Bluff Mtn Outfitters are first class
Date: 2008-04-24
From: Spring Mountain Shelter 

To: Valley of the Death Maze
Miles today: 14.1

I go by Crabby as a trail name not because of my demeanor here but for an old cartoon.However, tonight's entry is Crabby being crabby. Today, Chewy and I decided that the topo map of the trail offered us a chance to go 15 miles , a new high for us.Three miles into the hike, we found a sign that said "trail magic" up the road. So about 10 of us walked up the road to a beautiful log home where we were treated to waffles, stew, and sundaes. Incredible.Jodie & John Nelson, '99 thrus, perform this act of kindness to 400 nobos in the spring and then again for sobos. Thanks again for your thoughtfulness!Now let's get back to my rant. Though the trail magic took 2 hours, we all felt that we could make the 15 miles. Then we hit the "Maze of Death". Roughly 2-3 miles from the shelter, we encountered an endless maze of jagged peaks & boulders that were located on a precarious ridge. We struggled to make progress . Finally, with darkness upon us, we found a campsite and ate a cold dinner .As I write this, the delirium that came over me during the "maze" is going away. However, an hour ago, I was not a happy hiker. I am quite certain that there that there were several memorials to hikers placed there where those who fell (or leaped ) or were struck by lightning. I am completely safe in believing that the demented soul who created this route is resting comfortably in the asylum.More soon about my other nemisis--the midges.
Date: 2008-04-25
To: Flint Mountain Shelter 
Miles today: 6.7
Weather: broken clouds

The 14.1 mile adventure yesterday concluding with the Death Maze (my name) took a significant toll on us today.Chewy and I decided to have lunch aT this shelter to "charge the batteries" but that did not come close to happening. By 2:30, almost everyone in the shelter was dropping or close to it. We called off earlier plans to continue since it would require an additional 6 miles of hard uphill.The rest of the afternoon was spent watching the rather slow progress of a 6 ft. black snake as he slithered around the shelter. Not so surprisingly, hiker, Longshot, gave up his spot in the shelter for the night. Not a surprise about the snake. They love mice. Mice like shelters.Sometimes sleeping in a tent has its advantages.
Date: 2008-04-26
From: Flint Mountain Shelter 

To: Campsite just beyond Sam's Gap
Miles today: 12.2

It was another typical day on the trail as we moved along with a younger group. Erwin, TN looks good in 2 days.This last stretch of a six-day span of carrying this much food will soon be over for a long time.A couple of days ago, I mentioned the midges. I'm not even sure that's what they're called but that's what we're using. Midges are small black fly-like bugs that are just a bit smaller than the northeast's black fly.We first ran into these irritating little creatures in the Smokies. They are still with us. Now, they are not the biters that black flies and mosquitos are but, on occasion, will take a nip of flesh. Their most intolerable trait is forming a cloud around your head and then making a beeline for whatever orifice that looks most promising. Uphill climbs are their specialty when you are pumping away and don't want to dig his little carcus out of youe eye or ear.I've tried killing a few and placing them on my face as an example to their fellow irritants. That does not work. Chewy believes that they have no wordly function other than to irritate. They can't be frog food--not enough of em up here. So, I'll just try to survive their little time on earth until the next little creature comes along.
Date: 2008-04-27
From: Campsite just beyond Sam's Gap

To: Spivey's Gap
Miles today: 12.3
Weather: overcast clouds

We made excellent progress on our trek into Erwin. Nice hiking weather worked very well for us. Threatening rain in the forecast was not to deter us.We reached 19W highway at Spivey's Gap where there was a very nice campsite next to a fully running creek. Later, we were joined by two very nice ladies, Tailgate & Cayenne. We enjoyed a great fire and trading trail stories.We retired early and soon heard the beginning of a night's rain storm. I enjoy the sound of rain on the tent but, in this case, it did nothing to help me sleep. Sometimes it just escapes me why I can't sleep in this setting. I'm over the mice in my head. The bear scare never stuck with me. Sore hips are always an excuse. Who knows ?
Date: 2008-04-28
From: Spivey's Gap

To: Erwin, TN
Miles today: 11.2
Weather: light rain

Despite wet tents, packs, and bodies, Chewy, Cayenne, Tailgate, and I packed up just after dawn and headed out for the up and down roll into Erwin. Rain fell on us for most of the morning. As we approached one of our climbs, we were rerouted around a controlled burnArea (designed to eliminate accumulated ground debris ). We follOwed a forest service road on a gentle downhill grade. Just as we had convinced ourselves that the detour would keep us on the road right into Erwin, it took a strong uphill attitude connecting with the AT. I must admit that I had unkind comments about the Forest Service. However, we quietly found it going downhill and we entered Erwin just after noon.With resupply, showers, drop boxes, and laundry, w were happy to be here early. Our motel is somewhat remote so lots of additional walking was in order. Amazing what one will do for a juicy burger. I told Chewy that I wanted to add all of this extra walking to the daily mileage total. Guess not.
Date: 2008-04-29
From: Erwin, TN

To: Erwin
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

We have been lucky and deliberate. The plan today was to complete our town tasks and hike the 4+ miles up to the 1st shelter out of Erwin.We got a ride to the trail head and Johnny's hostel where most folks off of the trail get rooms. It's a great place. As we were preparing to leave, up walks Mustang Sally, our hiking team partner from the Smokies & before. She has been here for days doing some slack packing.I then made a phone call to Minnesota and talked with our friends Strider & Tracer. We were very happy to hear that they will be returning to the trail soon. Strider has been overboard in reminding us of his daily showers and soft bed. We can hardly wait to see them again and have them join the unwashed.The last surprise of the day came moments later as old friend, Colby, emerged from the trail. After 10 days of knee rehab, he has done big mile days. He is staying at the hostel tonight.Now, I suppose you know where this is headed. With all of these great reunions, how could we leave? We couldn't begin to justify going just 4+ miles and leave old friends behind. So, we are here for the night.I guess it is clear by now that trail towns do their magic and pull you back. In this case, we have managed to pull together some well constructed logic . Here goes:1. The 70 miles between here and my jump off to the family wedding is relatively easy.2. Brutally cold temperatures in the mtns last night were abig discussion point today. It will be cold there tonight. Not so much here.3. Old friends and reunions equal good times 4. More time to catch up on journals. Aren't you happy?5. What's left? There's a great Mexican restaurant we're trying. This is about food, isn't it?
Date: 2008-04-30
From: Erwin

To: Deep Gap
Miles today: 12.1
Weather: scattered clouds

We got an early start out of Erwin before the vortex struck (term used by many to refer to the lack of motivation that can consume hikers after a break or a trail town visit.)The early climb was followed by great hiking in the sun. A trail favorite, the Beauty Spot, was reached mid-afternoon. Six of us, Chewy, Tailgate, Cayenne, Y, Vigil Auntie, and I began the search for a camp site near Low Gap. We were later joined by Sojo, Colby, Boat and two section hikers. We had a great fire and shared stories.
Date: 2008-05-01
From: Deep Gap

To: Clyde Smith Shelter 
Miles today: 13.1
Weather: overcast clouds

After a great day of hiking yesterday, everyone was pumped for what looked like a relatively easy day. Wrong!The morning miles were great but some nasty little puds got in the way for the afternoon. By the time everyone reached the shelter, glazed looks could be found on most faces. No one saw such a tough day coming.It's 8:30pm and everyone is headed to bed in anticipation of tomorrow's climb. It is the toughest uphill on the trail so far as we will go over 6000 ft. To reach Roan Mth.There's something in the water or the trail is taking its toll. Three hikers that have been traveling along with us over the last week have left the trail within the last 2-3 days. Injuries were not a factor but rather a desire to continue. It's tough on the body but now that most are getting into hiking shape, the head is tougher to deal with. Never fear, my head is still in it.
Date: 2008-05-02
From: Clyde Smith Shelter 

To: Stan Murray Shelter 
Miles today: 11.2
Weather: broken clouds

After a day of hiking , you'd think sleep would be no problem. Wrong! I tossed & turned all night. Woke up to a deflated air mattress and suspect a leak. Chewy experienced a sleepless night too.The hike over Roan's 6000 ft. Was that we expected but we were proud of the accomplishment. We were hoping to stay at the Over Mountain Shelter tonight since it's a trail favorite. Loss of sleep grabbed us mid-afternoon and we stopped here 2 miles short. A quick dinner and I'mNow in bed.Earlier today at the Roan restroom, I scolded my fellow hikers for not telling me about what I saw in the mirror. Between the beard and hair, all that I can say is scary, very scary.
Date: 2008-05-03
From: Stan Murray Shelter 

To: Mountain Harbor Hostel
Miles today: 10.4

Sometimes it's amazing what a nice soft bed will do for one's motivational level. Chewy and I decided that a resupply must at Roan Mountain Village could be easily satisfied with a night's stay at a local hostel, Mountain Harbour.What a great decision. We stayed in a converted barn, that the owners, Mary and Terry, made look just like home. A wonderful breakfast in the morning will send us on our way.The day hiking today was marked with early morning trail magic from Kevin and Jenna. They turned the Overmountain shelter area into a treat for many hikers featuring beer, snacks, candy, and a delicious chili. Thank, Kevin and Jenna.Another icon on the trail, Hump Mountain, was crossed though the wind and light rain eliminated any summit lingering.Many thanks to Kathy (Lipstick), Racoon's wife, for hauling us and others around for whatever we needed.
Date: 2008-05-04
From: Mountain Harbor Hostel

To: Hardcore Rapids
Miles today: 15.0

We looked at our maps, liked what we saw, and decided to make a major move to get us as close as possible to Kincora Hostel today.We started with a minor climb, but the rest of the day was small PUDS that we breezed through. At day's end, we found a small campsite by a stream and we were proud to have completed a record 15 mile day. We also noted that we had passed the 400 mile point during the day. We decided to postpone the celebration until we reached Kincora.With my thermarest pad now deflating during the course of the night, Racoon graciously offered me the use of his Big Agnes pad. Despite a limited tent site, I slept like a big baby on this Cadillac of sleep pads. I can see a new purchase coming!Tomorrow's hike will be an easy one as we breeze into Kincora and the last of these Tennessee towns. It's nice to have these easy days as I look forward to being off the trail for a few days.
Date: 2008-05-05
From: Hardcore Rapids

To: Kincora Hostel (Dennis Cove)
Miles today: 9.3

With light packs (limited food)and high spirits, we raced through our mileage today and arrived at this very popular trail hostel. There was a full house at the hostel and included my good hiking friends Y and VigilAuntie, Cayenne, Tailgate, Racoon and of course, Chewy.We were driven into Elizbethton, TN, by Kathy and enjoyed lots of Mexican food and too many margaritas. The official crossing of the 400 mile point was toasted by all.After studying my trail guide and road maps, it has become apparent that this hostel is my final destination before making connections to my brother Tom's and fiance's (Betsy) wedding. Further hiking north will aggrevate my arrangements.I leave the trail sadly, knowing I will now be separated from new friends, Y, VigilAuntie, Cayenne, Tailgate, and Racoon. Nearly a week will elapse before I return and they will have moved north.Unfortunately, I must also say goodbye, or hopefully, say "See you later," to my hiking partner Chewy. We have traveled since the early days of the trail and he is a dear friend. I will miss our daily jokes and the many ways we work together.Chewy is hopeful for some time off of the trail soon to visit with home connections. With good timing and some hard hiking on my part, we are hopeful of getting back together very soon. The break to visit family and friends at the wedding is going to be nice. I don't look forward to other goodbyes or see you laters. However, it is the way of the trail and we are all used to departures and reunions. I look forward to the latter.