morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2013-03-25
From: Gatlinburg, TN

To: Gatlinburg
Miles today: 0.0

Well the ridge runner Billy was right. Sunday saw a drop in temps and snow. Our plan to continue was stopped when we found out the roads were closed. Looks like we are staying in Gatlinburg a few more days. The town is full of thru hikers who layed over to let the storm pass and thrus like us who came off the trail. Wednesday the trail should be full of hikers and I am concerned about the availability of shelter space. Pilgrim and I could be called slow and slower so we will probably be the last ones in. Today was pretty casual; a quick trip to the NOC, a trip to resupply, and a change in motels. The only activity was a casual walk up and down the main street. Looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow morning. Cell service for Sprint is spotty and wifi iffy. Good night all, Pilgrim and I are safe, warm, and dry.
Date: 2013-03-26
From: Gatlinburg, TN

To: Johnson City, TN
Miles today: 0.0

Well the scuttlebut today was it might be Friday or Saturday before the road back to Newfound Gap opens up. If it does open can the trail be seen? If there is a mass exit back to the trail, what will the shelters be like? I am just trying to hike the AT not trying to kill myself. Decided to call family for support and a place to wait for better conditions. Pilgrim and I are staying in Johnson City with my in-laws about 1 1/2 hrs out of Gatlinburg. Will return as soon as conditions are safe. Might check on trails around Erwin as we can't wait to get back and make progress. Many thanks to my brother-in-law, Ron and his wife Sandy for picking us up and offering to take us in. Thanks to my wife's parents Foster and Clarice for taking us in. Wishing the best and praying for all those still on the trail. May God be with you. Good night all.
Date: 2013-03-27
From: Johnson City, TN

To: Johnson City, TN
Miles today: 0.0

Our hosts took us downtown to shop for some gear replacements today. Pilgrim purchased a new water filter, and I got some much needed waterproof gloves. We are still checking for updates on the weather and road closures and so far no changes. We are hoping for a return to the trail on Friday, however taking it day by day. Praying for good news tomorrow.
Date: 2013-03-29
From: Newfound Gap, TN

To: Pecks Corner Shelter
Miles today: 10.4
Weather: overcast clouds

Foster and Clarice brought us back to NFG today so we got on the trail at 10:00. The trail was in great shape thanks to the young guys (Maniac and Wild Blue) who broke the trail. The trail was like a luge, about 14 inches wide and several feet deep (see additional photos). The snow covered all the rocks and roots so it was slow but easy going. Tonight there are 16 thru hikers and 3 day hikers in the 12 man shelter. With me is Doser, Kfox, Pilgrim, Chinmusic, Moviestar, Rainbow Braid, Maniac, Wild Blue, Tomahawk, Fix, Foxy and many others. It is 6:00 p.m. and lights out for me. All the food is making me hungry. Tonight was a cold dinner of power bar, reeses, and gorp.
Date: 2013-03-30
From: Pecks Corner Shelter

To: Cosby Nob Shelter
Miles today: 12.9

It started snowing yesterday around noon and continued until about 1:00 am this morning. We started hiking in about 2 to 2 1/2 feet of snow. Thankfully we had hikers breaking the trail. Hiking today was actually pretty enjoyable except for the snow falling down the back of your neck. The trail ran across lots of backbones so you could see both sides of the mountain range. Right before we reached Cosby Nob Shelter we did a long descent which brought us below the snowline. The problem with that is the nicely groomed ice and snow trail was now a running spring of water and mud. Give me the ice and snow!! It didn't take long for the trail to head back up into the snow. We have a full house again at the shelter with the ridge runner Billy, Smiles, Tomyhawk, Fix, and Foxy, and a host of others. Two trail angels hiked into camp and gave everyone a packet of goodies including a fruit bar, hot chocolate, and some butterscotch candies. It was our Easter treat. Thanks Gamelle.
Date: 2013-03-31
From: Cosby Nob Shelter

To: Standing Bear Hostel
Miles today: 10.7
Weather: light rain

This morning we awoke to the sound of rain on our shelter so we all geared up for rain. Luck was with us and we had a beautiful day. We had a short climb in the morning then started our long descent out of the Smokies. As we slowly descended, the pine trees and snow loosened their grip and gave way to deep groves of rhodies. The ice and snow covered trails became swollen creeks as we slushed our way down the mountain. Eventually the creeks (trails) gave way to muddy slush and "AT Diarrhea", quite the mess. Before we left we got one more spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. Once out of the Smokies we ran into Fresh Grounds at the highway 40 underpass who was waiting for us with a ton of food and drink. Lucas broke the hot dog record by eating 12 hotdogs. I had a more modest lunch of 5 hot dogs, potato chips, 2 mountain dews, an orange and bananna. Hitting the trail after that was tough! After one more quick climb we reached Standing Bear Hostel so we could clean up and dry out. The hostel is run by Curtis who is really a great guy. Coming out of the shower he grabbed me and took me into his house to have Easter dinner with his family which are all extremely generous and friendly. In the bunkhouse with me is Lucas, Pilgram, Northern, Javaman, Mudmouth and Yardsale, Smiles, and Chinmusic. As we listen to the pouring rain, Yardsale is entertaining us with folksongs on the quitar and is accompanied by Mudmouth who has a great voice. It would be great to be home for Easter but I am surrounded by some great people. Goodnight all and God be with you. Nick and Madison, Grandpa loves and misses you.
Date: 2013-04-01
From: Standing Bear Hostel

To: Roaring Fork Shelter
Miles today: 15.1
Weather: scattered clouds

Today's trail was well manicured for the most part. Starting from the hostel the trail immediately went vertical. After about 3 hours of climbing we came to some fantatic views. It was a day of repeats: climb the hill, drop into a deep ravine, then climb back out. The highlight of the day was going over Max Patch Summit. From the top you had a 360 view of all the surrounding mountains. Approaching the bald, the wind roaring over the ridge sounded like a jet. Once on the bald you were pounded by a 30 to 40 mile wind with gusts much stronger. All day it was a race against rain. We won with a few minutes to spare. Tonight in the shelter is Foxy and Fix, Goat and Tommyhawk, Smiles and Northern.
Date: 2013-04-02
From: Roaring Fork Shelter

To: Hot Springs, N.C.
Miles today: 18.0
Weather: scattered clouds

Today was our longest push to date. After a bitter cold night in the shelter we headed out at 7:30. The first business of the day was to get water as we were too tired and cold coming into camp to camel up. Luck would have it my filter wouldn't work for some reason so we moved on until warmer weather to get to Pilgrim's filter which was packed away. After several hours of climbing we started our long descent out of the mountains. During the day the vegatation and trees kept changing as pine trees gave way to oak, birch, chestnut, and maple. Once again we were engulfed by thick tunnels of rhodies and mountain laurel. Song birds became much more prevalent. As we approached Hot Springs you could hear the sounds of kids yelling and dogs barking. It was quite a contrast to the silence we have been in for so long. Tonight I am staying at the Iron Horse with Pilgrim and Northern. Good night all and may God be with you.
Date: 2013-04-03
From: Hot Springs, N.C.

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

Got a late morning start as we had breakfast in town, resupplied and went to the outfitters. Today was mostly climbing as we went from 1326 elevation to 3556 with several descents then climbing back up again. The trail was dry and hard packed for a change. I don't even remember the last time it was like that. It was great!! On the south side of the mountain, the barren ravines with leafless trees and twigs sticking up from the forest floor became more like an impenetrable forest. It was like life was just breathed into it. Can't wait for spring to finally arrive. Not much battery left so good night all.
Date: 2013-04-04
From: Spring Mountain Shelter

To: Little Laurel Shelter
Miles today: 8.6
Weather: broken clouds

It is a freezing cold miserable day. We woke up early to a light drizzle which quickly turned into a constant rain. Got to the shelter after hiking 6 hrs in the rain. As we were walking, you could see ice forming in the trees. By 2:00 Pilgrim, myself, Northern, Maniac, and Wild Blue are all tucked away into our sleeping bags to avoid the ice storm. Icicles are all along the edges of the shelter and ice is constantly hitting the roof. It is going to be one cold night. Good night all.
Date: 2013-04-05
From: Little Laurel Shelter

To: Flint Mountain Shelter
Miles today: 12.7
Weather: overcast clouds

It was the worst of days and the best of days. The morning started off climbing through an obstacle course of downed trees, frozen branches and ice laden rhodies. The ice storm made beautiful scenery but lousy hiking. For several hours we were battered by falling ice that covered the ground like broken glass. Staying dry was impossible and the ice down your neck kept you cool. The mountain ridge was a difficult scramble over frozen granite. The visibility was a about 100 yards. So much for the 360 views. The afternoon provided blue skies and warmer weather. Now we were rained on by the frozen trees and rhodies. But at last, below the freeze line, what a beautiful day and a chance to dry out. Good night all.
Date: 2013-04-06
From: Flint Mountain Shelter

To: Hogback Ridge Shelter
Miles today: 8.8
Weather: clear sky

This day was the worst day on the trail. Last night I got the bug that everyone is getting. After losing my dinner I was up all night. In the morning I still couldn't eat or keep down water. Having to move on I slugged on and barely made it to camp. I really don't have a clue what the trail was like other than steep because I was in survival mode. It took about 7 hours to go approx. 9 mi. Once in camp I tried to eat but could barely look at the food so another cold hungry night. At the shelter was Wild Blue, Soho, Feedbag, Ladygray, Javaman, Truck Surfer, Stretch and Spider, Chinmusic, Pilgrim and a host of hikers new to me. Most were sick or had been sick.
Date: 2013-04-07
From: Hogback Ridge Shelter

To: Whistling Gap Campsite
Miles today: 13.6

This was the second worse day on the trail. I woke up feeling not too bad but found out Pilgrim was now sick. Having no where to go we pushed on for another hard day of climbing without much to eat. We both tried to eat snickers but couldn't even eat half, so we gave up eating the rest of the day. Another long day for me and a miserable day for Pilgrim but we made it. But not all went bad as karma was still on our side. Reaching Sams Gap we needed to hitch a ride to resupply. The very first car coming by stopped and took us directly where we wanted to go. The gentleman's name was Fred! Leaving the market, Frank Fox driving a pick up waved us down and said he would take us back to the trailhead. Thanks guys, you two really made our day a lot brighter. Pilgrim set up his tent and went straight to bed w/o eating again. Meanwhile I got water for the next day and bear bagged. The funny thing is I ended up losing my line in the trees while using a rock I had carried from day 2. It was the first time I even needed to use the darn thing. In camp a good sized tree limb snapped and fell on Truck Surfer barely missing his head. Minutes later Feedbag had a lighter explode in his face while stoking the fire. Only minor searing of hair and ash in the eyes. Everyone is pretty well beat down. In camp was Northern, Java Man, Feedbag, Truck Surfer, Bilbo, Chinmusic, Ned, and Pilgrim.
Date: 2013-04-08
From: Whistling Gap Campsite

To: Erwin, TN
Miles today: 12.9
Weather: clear sky

Last night Ned became the next victim of the bug. He left the trail with Wild Rain who also got sick last night. Fortunately Pilgrim and I both felt better today, but both of us were weak. After a hearty breakfast of a honey bun, we set off for a long awaited rest in Erwin. It didn't take long to discover neither one of us was doing great. We struggled through our 12.9 mi. hike w/o eating again, but at least we drank water. The trail was as beautiful as the day. I must say some of the prettiest terrain we have seen. The trails were gradual and well maintained. Birds could be heard all day and the sound of running water filled the silence in the ravines. The sun was warm but the abundant rhodies provided shade as cool breezes swept up the mountain side. Throughout the day clearings provided great views of the surrounding hills and Erwin far below. Though we were both dragging it only took about 8 hours to do 13 miles. Not a record but the trail didn't beat us. Lucky for us my brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Ron and Sandy, picked us up at Uncle Johnny's hostel and took us in for a much needed meal and rest. Pilgrim and I will be off the trail for a few days. My wife is also flying in from Calif. for a visit. Life just doesn't get any better. Good night all and thank you for joining in on the journey and your well wishes. May God bless you all. Grandma Sylvia, we missed the hot tubs in Hot Spings. The outside cafe is still there and quite lively at night. I was too sick to enjoy the Little Creek Cafe and didn't have the heart to ask our trail angel to stop. Hot Springs is a great little town. The outfitter was helpful and well supplied. I can see myself going back some day.
Date: 2013-04-09
From: Erwin, TN

To: Johnson City, TN
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: few clouds

While recharging in Johnson City we took a trip to Mahoney's outfitter. To my surprise I was greeted by another thru-hiker, Shutterbug. Unfortunately she was off the trail for a while due to an injury. She was traveling with Chickadee and accompanied by Nomad. Nomad is a former hiker and is providing trail support in conjunction with Fresh Ground. Nomad let us know that if we needed help he could be contacted. Nomad purchased a van to help with support which he allows thru-hikers to sign. It is great to have such wonderful and caring people along the trail. It really strengthens one's faith in mankind.On a recurring theme, Pigrim continues to get the last of everything we both want! In Gatlinburg at KFC he got the last 3 pieces of chicken. When I tried to order I was asked if there was anything else I wanted oher than chicken! When changing to a Sawyer water filter he picked up the last one. After going to 3 outfitters looking for new rainpants for myself while Joe waited impatiently, he walks into Mahoney's today and purchases the last pair of rain pants while I am looking for insoles. I now have a pair of rain pants on order! I think from now on he will have to wait outside until I'm done shopping (ha,ha). I am really enjoying my family visit and the opportunity to relax, recharge, and now am ready to hit the trail. It will be interesting meeting a whole new bubble of hikers.
Date: 2013-04-12
From: Erwin, TN

To: Low Gap Campsite
Miles today: 16.4
Weather: clear sky

It was difficult leaving my family behind but good to be back on the trail. We started in a light drizzle and hit the trail with high hopes of a beautiful day. Entering the forest we could hear the roar of the Nolichuky river swollen and muddy from the storm last night. For about 2 hours we had an easy walk through the floor of a budding yet lush forest. Suddenly we turned into the face of the mountain and started a gradual yet persistent climb. Just what we needed to get our legs back in shape. Thre roar of the river was now replaced by the babbling of rushing water as the trail meandered back and forth across the streams. In the background, birds were singing as if greeting a new day. This part of the trail was by far the most scenic and relaxing to date. Around 1:00 we came across Fresh Grounds providing his trail support. It is always fun to meet up with him and have a good conversation. Fresh Ground is one of the best people you will ever meet. Knowing that Pilgrim and I had heavy packs, he offered to bounce 3 days of supplies to a local hostel. What a difference that weight made! After leaving Fresh Ground the terrain once again headed upward and followed the ridges offering great views as the day cleared. After an early dinner we crossed 2 balds with great views then climed up into a dense spruce forest. Along the way we were greeted by Mr. and Mrs Lively who we met in Hot Springs. They were in their vehicle checking out future hikes when they spotted us. Funny who you run into on the trail. As the day grew long we sludged down Unaka mountain and made camp at Low Gap at around 7:30. It was a long yet fun first day back on the trail. Pilgrim and I both feel great. Good night all and may God be with you.
Date: 2013-04-13
From: Low Gap Campsite

To: Ash Gap Campsite
Miles today: 16.3
Weather: scattered clouds

The trail today was pretty easy on the feet. For most of the day the path was smooth and void of roots or rocks. Throughout the day we had great views as the trail followed the ridge line. Later in the day as we approached Roan Mt. the climbs became more pronounced and the trail more dificult. Several times we had to climb rock faces but the views following the climbs made it worth it. I must admit the more rugged terrain made the hike interesting in contrast to the hour after hour of gradual climbing and steep desents. After two long days of climbing and descending my knees are beginning to ache. Hopefully one final push tomorrow over Roan Mt. will put an end to the long descents. Good night all and may God be with you.
Date: 2013-04-14
From: Ash Gap Campsite

To: Mountain Harbor Hostel
Miles today: 17.4
Weather: light snow

The day started out with a strenuous climb up Roan Mt. Thank God we had already climbed about half of it. Once we hit the top we started our descent following a trail that was dubbling as a stream. I was suprised at the amount of snow and ice that still remained from the hard winter. Going down we walked through a dense forest of new growth. The young pines were only 2 to 4 feet tall. Passing Carver the terrain changed drastically consisting mostly of balds. Passing over little hump and big hump we encountered 40 to 50 mile an hour winds. The gusts were so strong that I was walking down the trail like a drunk trying to walk a strait line. A couple of times I would have been blown over if not for my trekking poles. Once off big hump we passed out of North Carolina for the last time. Crossing the border we started our long descent to US 19E. (Roan to the West and Elk to the East.) After a long day we treated ourselves to a stay at a B&B (the hostel was full). Good night all and may God be with you.
Date: 2013-04-15
From: Mountain Harbor Hostel

To: Johnson City, TN
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

This is my final entry. My last night at the b&b started out great. Got to sit around the b&b and chat with Chinmusic, Truck Surfer, Feedbag, and Bilbo. After turning in around 11:30 I started feeling queasy. Around 1 am in the morning the bug hit again with a vengece with vomiting and diarrhea. Since the b&b was so expensive and hostel being full I called for help from my in-laws who came and took me home. After another day of not eating I decided my trail days were over. Starting out at 150 lbs I am now at 132. I had a great adventure and met some awesome people I won't forget. In the short time I was on the trail I experienced single digit temps, gale force winds, snow storms and ice storms. Through it all I came out smiling. Sorry to say I will miss the heat, humidity and bugs. Sounds like fun. I know that I can do it, but don't want to ruin my health. I would like to thank all my friends and family that supported me and all my guests who have followed and encouraged me. To Pilgrim and all my new trail friends, good luck, be safe, and may God be with you.
Date: 2013-03-09
To: The trail awaits...
Miles today: 0.0

Houdini by Foster the PeopleFor at least a decade, I've dreamed of hiking the AT. I had hoped to do so straight out of college, but my personal finances were not in order (i.e. student loans). A decade later, those loans are gone. Two years ago I took a long weekend reconnaissance trip to northern Georgia. I needed to know whether my AT dream was still my dream. Without a doubt, it was. Since then I've saved and planned and in seven days I'll take my first steps towards what will minimally be an introspective journey, but undoubtedly much more.People have asked whether I was afraid. At the time I scoffed and asked of what could I possibly be afraid? Bears, was the common refrain. My response was, "It's an adventure and I've been more excited about this unfolding dream than anything else". Now, it's nearly here and my emotions are more real, and mixed. I've backpacked for years, and consider myself seasoned. I know my gear, techniques, and limitations. Although challenging, it's just about putting one foot in front of the other, repeat about five million times.Seven days ago I left behind a snowy Minnesota, a great job, great coworkers, great friends, and two great cats. All will be missed. Although I'm moving towards my dream, letting go was difficult and I like to say took equal parts stupidity and courage. Beyond letting go, I expect the largest challenge over the next six months to be mental, and with that comes my greatest fear. It's not bears, nor snakes, nor rodents, nor injury, nor illness, nor humans, nor ticks, nor sweltering heat, nor unbearable cold. My greatest fear is lonesomeness. Like all true introverts, I'm an expert at solitude and would often recharge during solo backpacking, camping, or cabin weekends. But, those refreshing, replenishing, and nourishing moments of solitude were interspersed with social occasions and work, which was structured and fulfilling. The routine of it all was comforting. Now, my daily routine, although repetitive and liberating, will be less predictable. Along the way I'll have many compatriots, but I hope to find true friendship. I hope to value each moment and to acknowledge its impermanence. I hope to hike my own hike. I hope to avoid serious injury. I hope to reach Maine and to summit Katahdin. I hope it will be the best six months of my life.Focus on your ability. Hike.
Date: 2013-03-14
To: The little things I carry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

Thank you to everyone who was able to attend my going away party in Minneapolis. It was a great send off! I truly appreciate your support and I'm grateful for your friendships. Thank you also for the little trail gifts which shall accompany me from GA to ME. Lots of good luck charms, some money for drinks after completing the trail, some motivational tunes, a flask for booze, comfy socks, and an amazing little book of inspirational kindling. I'll also carry, in my heart, good wishes and fond memories. Tomorrow my parents are driving me to Chicago, Saturday morning I'll catch a flight to Atlanta, then a shuttle to the Hiker Hostel, and Sunday morning I'll hit the trail. At the moment I'm planning to hike the 8.4 mile approach trail, which means I'm not likely to see Springer Mountain until Monday, but I am READY to hike!