morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2014-06-05
From: Big Meadows Campground

To: Byrd's nest #3
Miles today: 17.8

Waking up and hearing a rain pattering on your tent roof is only pleasant if you plan on laying there for a good bit. Doc, (in our group) was always a very early riser and always had the heavy urge to get hiking no matter what. I, on the other hand, had adopted the thru-hikers creedo..."If you wake up and it's raining -- you WAIT to hike out!" I climbed out into the drizzle and was slowly packing and not feeling very good about it. Doc had strapped on his pack and was heading out and it began to pour a little harder. I just wasn't feelin' it and got back into my shelter, laced up boots and all!I sat there for 30 minutes fidgeting with stuff sacks and readying my pack (I am lucky that I have enough room in my one-man tent to bring in all my belongings). When the rain eased up I got out again and there was Bormio. He had decided that to wait out the rain was a plan he liked too.We packed up in stages since everything was soaked. Moved all the wet gear to the rangers station. Then moved all the stuff again to the laundry room where we could clean away mud and debris and dry some of the wet clothes. The next stage was move all my stuff to a restroom area 1/4 mile from the trail where I took my tent inside and used the blow dryer to dry my rain fly........buy this was a lot of staging but it did ease us into our day and as we started out it had become very foggy and misty but at least the rain never came down again.As we hiked along it was quite cold but Bormio told great stories of his cycling events and traveling escapades. It kept me entertained. Since we were quite chilly we decided to stop at Skyland Restaurant when we got there for hot chocolate.WAIT!!.....there he was! A large bear crossed the AT right in front of us. It was a beautiful sight as the bear casually walked around in the mist not seeming a bit scared. So much fun to watch their quiet scavenging. I was able to get a good internet signal (finally) at the restaurant and called a few people and took care of some bills while waiting for the restaurant to open. Bormio and I had fish and chips and some hot chocolate and readied for the remaining hike.Bormio accidentally erased his video of the bear we saw earlier and he was quite upset. I said "Have no fear. I truly have a feeling we will see more this afternoon. Sure enough we stopped and talked to couple walking toward us and they stopped to warn us that a baby bear cub ran across the trail andto be on the lookout. WELL, we did not see a baby cub but I suddenly looked upward and saw a large adult male clinging in a treetop. That couple had walked right under him and never saw him! We took several pics but the bear got out of the tree before 10 seconds so the prized 'bear in tree' picture never happened. Bormio did finally get to shoot some more video.
Date: 2014-06-06
From: Byrd's nest #3

To: 17.6
Miles today: 17.5

Waking up this morning was quite chilly. Bormio hung his hammock up on a ridge while my tent was ever so slightly lower and behind a bank. I was toasty and snug. Bormio was shivering! We ate breakfast quickly to get off the ridge and hiked out by 6:50. There had been no water spring at the Byrd's Nest so our first mission was to find water.We hiked for a bit and saw Mary's Rock and then came the steep rocky descent which killed our toes.Then we came across a tiny stream coming out of the mountain and I knew it would be good water and I I always threat my water with Aqua MIra.It was a pretty warm day and we knew we had one more wayside to hike upon. It was Elkwallow Wayside. We knew it was the home of their wonderful Blackberry milkshakes. We both had one with our lunch and it was what we needed to power us up the next mountain.The sun was out most of the day and we saw a pretty deer right by the path. Then we walked past a fenced in area that was trying to prevent the endangerment of the peregrine falcons. we actually spotted two falcons playing (or fighting) as they soared in the air. Beautiful sight.As we made our final mile to camp we encountered a mid size male bear who once again ambled along beside the trail not at all afraid. We certainly tried to respect him and his space, this was his home after-all.There were many at this campsight since the weekend had begun and this shelter was easy access for campers entering the Shenandoah. But we met up with Doc again and the three of us chatted about the week and they were finished with their section hike tomorrow. I went to sleep quickly when I climbed into my sleeping bag.
Date: 2014-06-06
From: Byrd's nest #3

To: 17.6
Miles today: 17.5

Waking up this morning was quite chilly. Bormio hung his hammock up on a ridge while my tent was ever so slightly lower and behind a bank. I was toasty and snug. Bormio was shivering! We ate breakfast quickly to get off the ridge and hiked out by 6:50. There had been no water spring at the Byrd's Nest so our first mission was to find water.We hiked for a bit and saw Mary's Rock and then came the steep rocky descent which killed our toes.Then we came across a tiny stream coming out of the mountain and I knew it would be good water and I I always threat my water with Aqua MIra.It was a pretty warm day and we knew we had one more wayside to hike upon. It was Elkwallow Wayside. We knew it was the home of their wonderful Blackberry milkshakes. We both had one with our lunch and it was what we needed to power us up the next mountain.The sun was out most of the day and we saw a pretty deer right by the path. Then we walked past a fenced in area that was trying to prevent the endangerment of the peregrine falcons. we actually spotted two falcons playing (or fighting) as they soared in the air. Beautiful sight.As we made our final mile to camp we encountered a mid size male bear who once again ambled along beside the trail not at all afraid. We certainly tried to respect him and his space, this was his home after-all.There were many at this camp sight since the weekend had begun and this shelter was easy access for campers entering the Shenandoah. But we met up with Doc again and the three of us chatted about the week and they were finished with their section hike tomorrow. I went to sleep quickly when I climbed into my sleeping bag.
Date: 2014-06-07
From: Gravel Springs Hut

To: Front royal/ Zig Zags house
Miles today: 14.9
Weather: clear sky

I was not in a huge hurry to pack up to leave even though i was excited to exit the park for a zero day with Zig Zag and the Berbert family. They were having Maryland crabs and all the fixins'.Not too much in the way of wildlife but Doc, Bormio and i agreed to meet for one last lunch in an area where we thought would be a great overlook.... It was NOT an overlook so Doc. Wrote a message in the dirt that he was moving on. As i descended downward to leave the park i noticed a grandfather with his two grandsons (about 7. & 10). They were sitting at the park entrance and the cute little guys were all sweaty and red-faced. I knew the hike upward was probably tough on them so i thought i would brighten their days by showing them my pictures of bears and snakes.... "Awwwww, those are all little" i was informed by the little hikers (quite amusing)...moving on -As Bormio and i neared the end of the hiking day we see Zig Zag coming toward us. She has fresh fruit and water. So good to see her!!I said goodbye to the two guys who hiked with me all through the SNP then i was on my way to some welcomed pampering.
Date: 2014-06-08
From: Front royal/ Zig Zags house

To: Zig Zag's
Miles today: 0.0

Today was a day of great food and great friends.The Berbert family prepared a wonderful meal of Maryland crabs, Laura's delicious hushpuppies and corn on the cob. I added a beer to the mix and I usually don't drink beer but it just seemed to be the right beverage. James (Pushup) joined us. He is a member of the AT class of 2014 so it was fun exchanging a few 'inside stories' of the AT.Thanks to all the family (kate and Jake too, such sweet dogs) for a warm bath, clean clothes and great food (and all the 'ribbing' that Mike provided).
Date: 2014-06-12
From: Zig Zag's

To: Bear's Den
Miles today: 19.0

I was able to slack pack today and the going was tough. The paths were like rivers with lots of mud-slogging. The rains came down intermittently and as much as I tried to slow myself down I just couldn't release that feeling that I wanted to be 'done'!! So, now I have a very tender meniscus on my right knee. Sorry to keep whining about my knees but they are certainly winning when it comes to me finishing the trail. There many, many blowdowns and I could tell they had just happened by the fresh splintered wood by the large trees. Thankfully I was able to negotiate getting over the trees.I am bound and determined to make it to Harpers Ferry and maybe a bit beyond that so I will cut the miles in half (I promise)and go very slow. The rain is supposed to stop tomorrow and I am so tired of being wet and muddy.I will head out of Bear's Den very early to continue on the Roller Coaster, then into Harper's Ferry.
Date: 2014-06-14
From: Bear's Den

To: David Lesser Shelter
Miles today: 11.6
Weather: scattered clouds

Headed out of the Bear's Den on a beautiful day. Right off I noticed lots of scout troops on the trail. I have a scout leader friend (Charlie) who is supposed to be out with his troop as they are training for Philmont, but the irony is I will miss him by 6 miles!!! boo hoo. In the scheme of things it is a lot because I would have to wait 1/2 the day to see him and his troop then have to 'bust it' to the shelter on bad knees. I had to settle by leaving a note tacked to a tree for the group. I was upset that I somehow missed the 1000 mile sign as it was in a tree and I was watching the rocks continuously. When I realized I surely had gone passed itI had someone take my pic on some cliffs.The AT Blackburn Center was .2 STRAIGHT DOWN a mountain side so I opted not to go, BUT I hiked on a bit more and there was still another path to the Center. This time I was tempted so down, down, and down I went. Got frustrated because I kept realizing I had to scamper back up this vertical trail so I turned around. It was a hot day so I was pouring sweat by the time I reached the top.Arrived at the shelter and was just 'chillin' when I heard someone say "Is that Kokopelli?" It was Belch who I had hiked with back near Partnership shelter. I just love it when I see people I had hiked with way back. Several of us ate dinner at the picnic table and I was eyeing an avocado that Belch had set to the side. What a sweetheart....he must have caught my vibes and gave me the wonderful treat which I gobbled down with a spoon. (I did share it with those who wanted some)Got in my tent early and was awakened at 4:30 by an inconsiderate group of scouts, so I packed up and headed for Harper's Ferry...woo hoo!!*side note: Charlie and his scout troop did get my note in the tree and were thrilled*
Date: 2014-06-15
From: David Lesser Shelter

To: Harper's Ferry
Miles today: 9.4

As I last mentioned I was awakened very early by the loud talking and packing up of the scout troop that camped in the near vicinity of other campers. I felt particularly bad for the large family in a big tent....there were four kids and two adults & I have a feeling those little kids were not wanting to wake up at 4:30 a.m.I decided to not just lay in my tent awake when Harper's Ferry was waiting!! I was truly excited to make this hike today! I made coffee inside the vestibule of my Hubba and slowly packed up my bag. I truly love going into town as I carry very little water and have VERY little food left. YES, to a light pack!!Belch and I said good morning as we walked up to the bear cable at the same time. Seems our plan to eat energy bars as we were walking was a mutual one.The hike was not really so hard but it was extremely rocky for about the whole 9 miles so I was going slow and deliberate & monitoring the ache in my knees....don't even want to total up how many Motrin I have taken since March 20th. I passed by a lot of day hikers. I said Happy Father's Day to all the men I came across.Then came the sign saying 'Appalachian Trail Conservancy' ~ 1.9 miles!! I was so pumped. As I walked over the bridge into town I couldn't believe I was the ONLY hiker on that bridge. I looked forward, I looked back......no one!! In 2007 when I hiked over there were LOTS of backpackers all excited!As I am walking through town I have to climb some concrete steps at a local collage and I trip and fall and smash my finger.    I truly had to laugh as I can negotiate all the tricky twists and turns on the AT but my big ol' boots catch and trip me on the man made stairs....ha ha ha...ouch!!I was hiker number 568 (I think) but these are not all thru-hikers. The pictures include all categories of hikers that come into the conservancy. Everyone working inside is super friendly. I got out the 2007 book and found the pictures of me, Tony Tiger and Handyman and Band Aid Kid. So much fun.I decided I was extremely tired and opted to get a hotel room at Econo Lodge.I tok a hot shower then laid down on the bed and fell asleep so fast I couldn't believe it. I slept all afternoon then ordered out for a pizza made by local pizzeria. It was very good as they did not skimp on the toppings.Then I took ANOTHER shower!! I LOVED every minute of that hotel stay.
Date: 2014-07-14
From: Gathland State Park

To: Home
Miles today: 0.0

Hello all! Am excited to say I will be back on the trail in a few weeks! I waited two weeks and 'babied' my knees. Then slowly started doing some long walks....I even played a little of slow paced tennis. My knees are just a tiny bit sore and if I go hiking for one more month I am sure I can do it slowly enough to not re-injure myself.YAY!!! I am so excited. I just booked my ticket today to fly from Atlanta to Baltimore and meet up with Zig Zag and her husband Mike. Then we will drive to the Maine border and hike the whole state.WHAT?? you might say....starting with Mahoosic Notch?? ARE YOU CRAZY?? Well, I guess I am. Catchup (hiking partner from 2007) will also join our group and I think maybe Kebban (from 2011) will join us. It will be so much fun to have people with me. After I finish Maine, if I have time, I will flip and hike the section of New Hampshire I have not hiked.So, what adventures are in store? (There are always wonderful events on the AT)I am also wondering what fellow hikers from the early months will I run into.Thank you once again everyone for writing such wonderful notes of encouragement.I so much enjoy reading them.*Big shout out to Wrecking Ball who had to go to a hospital today to figure out why she was so extremely fatigued and dizzy* Get well soon, WB!!
Date: 2014-08-01
From: Home

To: Border of NH/Me
Miles today: 0.0

Greetings everyone! Here is a pic from mid-June when I came in to Harper's Ferry. It was fun meeting up with Belch as I had not seen him for over a month so I asked him to pose for a pic with me.The time is finally here and I must say I am very nervous!Why does it seem so long ago that I spent 3 mos. hiking the trail?I will be up at the crack of dawn and board my flight for Baltimore and make my way to find Zig Zag and Mike and all the Berberts.Then we will drive to Maine and meet up with Catchup (thru-hiker 2007 ~ great journal in TJ)and Kebban (Class of 2011).Maybe I am nervous because of the start of my hike being such a tough one.Everyone who has written me says to beware that Mahoosic Notch is very tough going. Well, I made it past Harpers Ferry with slow going and smart decisions so I will continue this pattern and be making some more entries about this fantastic adventure!Thank you for your encouragement. Have a wonderful rest of your summer!!
Date: 2014-08-04
From: Border of NH/Me

To: Andover, Me.
Miles today: 0.0

YAHOO!! I am in Maine and back near the trail. Jumping right into the Mahoosic Notch first thing tomorrow. It is a thrill to be back out here after 5 weeks off the trail. Zig Zag, Mike and i arrived in Wolfboro, NH to pick up Catchup. She & husband Cargo Master allowed us all to stay overnight in their beautiful house. They have an adorable grandson (trailname Rocky) who kept us all entertained.Up early to drive to Maine where we met up with Kebbon. We met at White Mt. House hostel and i got an awesome surprise when i ran into Oconee !! He had taken a tumble on some NH rocks but seemed in good spirits and ready to hike.Our group set ourselves up at a little cabin so we can hike out of this location for a few days.This part of the trail is extremely remote and the gnats and mosquitoes are thick!! It is very beautiful, though!We pray it doesn't rain but we will hike no matter what. Wish us luck!Oh yes, i took a walk and got nailed in the head with a HUGE glop of tree sap!! Lol!It is all matted and stuck in my hair and will have to stay that way until i get a hot shower.... Hey, AT!! Is that anyway to welcome a hiker back?
Date: 2014-08-05
From: Andover, Me.

To: Grafton Notch, Me.
Miles today: 10.2

HOLY MOLY is the Maine part of the trail strenuous and difficult ( with lots of sideline adventure!) our group was up early to hit the shuttle for the Mahoosic Notch. There was a little difficulty in finding the side trail so we didn't start out until after 8:00a.m. We had all already agreed we wanted as much time as possible for the 'brutal day' of the Notch and Arm.We hike along the gently rolling side trail with Catchup in the lead.... Ahhhhhh so good to be back in the woods!! All of a sudden we hit the AT and there it was!!! The beginning of the Mahoosic Notch....(cue the trumpets)...the hardest mile on the trail!!There was no mistake of its immense statement, a huge jumble of all sorts of boulders that fell hap-hazardly into the notch. We all put our poles into our backpacks. They were useless here. Slowly we began picking our way through the maze. Was so much fun as a group to lift, push and pull each other through that mile. We all survived the notch without injury (except our eardrums took a beating from a 10 year old lad (who said he had poptarts and Red Bull for breakfast) he was in overdrive with his screaming and loud talking making it a little hard to focus on some of the climbing. Oh also i raised up fast with an unexpected rock ledge overhead and i saw stars when i 'beaned' my skull... No blood and Kebban gave me Ibuprofen to keep swelling down.With the notch completed (and we were 'over' the notch after 3hrs. 20 minutes)...we IMMEDIATELY head up the Arm. Oh my heavens!! Harder and harder is this trail!!! Just impossible looking masses of rocks and roots and slick granite slabs going straight up!!.....It just looked impossible! Somehow i found myself separated from the other four and it felt more and more empowering to complete one section of scrambling after the other (yes, i was very scared and cautious) but I MADE IT TO THE TOP!! Met up again with Zig Zag and Hushpuppy while Kebban and Catchup made their way up shortly. NOW the fun begins! Because the Notch and the Arm were so time consuming we found ourselves running toward night time AND a thunderstorm!! Oh heavens, what's next? We had to climb on allFours up a granite face mountain with lightening popping behind us . I did have a frightening panic attack realizing the danger i was in but ZigZag told me to snap out of the fright and move FAST!!! We got to the top and a torrential rain came down. I was soaked to the bone immediately but was glad to be heading down the mt. It was dark by 8:30 so we ended up hiking in the dark with headlamps and it was not easy. Could not see the the blazes and even got off the trail a few times. Zig Zag and i encouraged each other all the way down the slippery rocks of Maine. We always were overjoyed to just spot a blaze knowing knowing we were back on track. What a welcomed relief when all the group was together again with only scratches and bruises!We were all proud of what we accomplish and learned more about team work and camaraderie than you could ever imagine.
Date: 2014-08-07
From: Grafton Notch, Me.

To: View Entry
Miles today: 11.0

This was a wet day for hiking. It seems this year has had more then its share of rain. Headed out after a day of rest because our day/experiences on Tuesday had us sore and tired. We fueled up some good food at the little Red Hen.This hiking day revealed some surprises as i ran into Stark, Wake Up Miss America, Kickapoo, Sherlock and Circuit Rider. The day already had many tricky ups and downs but we soon headed up Moody Mt. As i studied the 'nightmare staircase' i took a deep breath and just started climbing the tangle of wet rocks, roots, tree branches and mud. It started to rain ( of course) and Kebban brought these little umbrellas and i stuck the handle of my umbrella down between my back and pack. It worked pretty good so i could use my poles in both hands.   But pretty soon i was soaked and put the umbrella away. Sure could use with some clear skies and warm weather.
Date: 2014-08-08
From: Grafton Notch

To: Andover
Miles today: 10.2

Our trip up Bald Pate began with a steep upward workout but the was glorious! One of those days i knew Maine could deliver! Cool temps with blue skies and gentle breezes.The stonework steps in the beginning were masterpieces!We reached one summit and Christmas greenery smell was everywhere. We descended Bald Pate West and it was a bit scary and slippery but nothing like what was to come. We ascended East Pate and it was really fun to walk straight up rock slabs but when there is NOTHING to hold onto (and just trust the grip of your boots).... Well, i still get a bit of panic! But when i succeed and get to the top the thrill of the accomplishment is wonderful!At the summit were lots of wild blueberries and they tasted sweet.Going down East Pate was almost vertical drops from one rock slab to the next. I did take a small tumble (super terrifying) but Kebban was there to break the fall.Hushpuppy, ZigZag, Kebban and i worked like a team slowly easing our way down the mt.Today we saw Right Here, 50/50, Murphy, and Johawk. I really slept well!
Date: 2014-04-18
To: Sourland Mountain Preserve
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

Headed out today for our last preparation hike. Thought we should try out our trekking poles. Hiked 7 miles fully loaded. Completed in 3 hours. Things are coming together and we are headed for Harpers Ferry, WV on Sunday. Excited about beginning our hike on Monday!
Date: 2014-04-20
To: Harper's Ferry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

First night. Ben drove us out after Church and cinnamon rolls for breakfast. When arriving we went to the AT Conservancy then walked into town and had lunch. When all was said and done we put in about 12,300 steps and 6 miles (actually walked into town twice). Took a picture of Ben and "Racquet" . Hostel is not crowded, only 4 of us but it has been great to talk to more experienced hikers. Can't wait to get on the trail tomorrow, but not before our waffle breakfast.
Date: 2014-04-21
From: Harper's Ferry

To: Ed Garvey Shelter
Miles today: 7.3
Weather: clear sky

Day of firsts. First day on the trail, first assent, first night in a shelter. This shelter is really cool, 2 levels with upper level mostly enclosed. Met Corey from Mich. he is doing a small section hike but tomorrow gets back on the train to go home. Our steps for the day total about 25000 for and the fit bit said about 12 miles (I think it over estimates mileage but the total steps are right). Supposed to rain tomorrow and we have 10 miles planned but mostly downhill. Started the day with waffles, then off to get our thru hike registered at the conservancy and got out official picture. Said good bye to Dr John and Derrick. John was catching the trail for San Diego, he is going to hike the PCT starting Friday. You meet a lot of different and Interesting people. .