morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2010-04-17
From: Standing Bear Hostel 

To: Standing Bear Farm Hostel 
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

This morning was overcast with light rain. When we turned in last night we already acknowledged we would not be getting an early start in the morning, so we decided to just have relaxed breakfast. Yesterday evening the hostel owner took a number of hikers to a nearby convenience store for a "beer run". As night fell most were in good spirits, in more ways than one, and had gathered around the fire ring to enjoy one another's company and celebrate being out of the national park. There is an acoustic guitar here, for guests to use, and a couple of the hikers were able to make good use of this instrument, with many others joining in to sing a wide variety of songs. I turned in around 2030 or 2100, but rather enjoyed hearing the music and singing, off-key as it often was. I drifted off to sleep from time to time, and when I got up around 0200 to pee, I noted all was quiet, save the gentle snores emanating from a few of the bunks. This morning while sipping coffee in the 'kitchen', I started to pick up on the fact that some sort of unusual event involving the hostel owner, had transpired the night before. Eventually the story came out. Around 2330 the power was shut off, but the hikers had the campfire and their headlamps, and continued to sing. At midnight the owner approached the group and snatched the guitar, saying, "It's time you all went to sleep". They were a bit shocked, and when the guitar player asked, "What's going on?", the owner turned and came back over to the group. Smashing, and destroying, the guitar on the ground, he snarled, "That's what's going on!" Well, needless to say, the party pretty much was over at this point. I had slept through all this, but seeing the TOTALLY smashed guitar in the case this morning was a bit shocking. I guess it was more of a surprise because this hostel is known for its relaxed ways and lack of formal rules. Anyway, it makes for a pretty good story. As the morning grew old, and continued to be damp, Magnet suggested we stay an extra night. The weather is predicted to clear by tonight, so an extra night here would save us from hiking with a wet tent and clothes. It also gives us the chance to rest a bit, and eat more non-trail food. My appetite seems to be improving, I think I had more emotional baggage from my last Smokys hike than I realized. As we approached the park I began experiencing some anxiety, in the form of a knot in my stomach, and a feeling on not wanted to do this. This feeling increased as we progressed through the park, making it difficult to eat. Not eating well results in poor energy for hiking, which only ends up reinforcing the anxiety. About 3/4 the way through the park I began to feel a bit better. And, after I hiked the section which had been so traumatic 3 years ago, I felt significantly better. Since I've been here my appetite has been very good. As a matter of fact, I'm hungry again now, and I'm happy with that. Be Well,
Date: 2010-04-19
From: Max Patch 

To: Deer Park Mountain Shelter 
Miles today: 16.5
Weather: overcast clouds

Got up early this morning to watch the sun rise over the mountains to the east. So far, Max Patch is one of my favorite places on the trail. I took a lot of pictures, I can't wait until I can see them on a computer monitor. I'm also looking forward to being able to add some pictures to this journal. I should be in Hot Springs tomorrow, so maybe there will be internet access and I can try to add a few. I thought I was going to have a tough time hiking today, but it went pretty well. It helped that the terrain was pretty easy the first 3 or 4 miles. We have often had wraps for lunch, which include cheese, and a meat; summer sausage, hard salami, or tuna. Sometimes after lunch I have felt kind of sluggish, and it seems to be a couple of hours before I get any energy from lunch. Today we had peanut butter and jelly on tortillas, and we both felt it gave us better energy. We'll have to experiment. I would love to figure out how to eat so I have better energy to hike. The day was partly sunny, partly cloudy, with temperatures cool enough to keep long sleeves on most of the day, although we did hike in short pants. One of the things I have been enjoying, during all this sunny weather, are the wonderful scents released from the forest floor as the sun beats down on the trail. Sometimes it smells like a pine infused spice. It's wonderful There's a good group at the shelter tonight, most of whom are tenting. I think only 3 hikers are actually planning on sleeping in the shelter; Sabbath Keeper, Inferno, and Fast Lane. Tenting are Mr. Vix, Spring Kat, the Professor, Ellie, City Slicker, Landfill, Magnet and me. Superman is going to cowboy camp. We'll all go in to town tomorrow. Magnet and I would like to stay at Elmer's Sunnybank Inn, but I think a lot of hikers are headed there, so we'll see if we can get a bed. River, Fable, Sockeye, Grizzly, and Cope went into town today, and I don't know if any of them are planning to get back on the trail tomorrow, or take a zero day. Magnet and I will take a nero, which is hiker-speak for near-zero, meaning we will only hike a short distance tomorrow, as town is only 3.2 miles away. This will give us most of the day to take care of things like laundry, shower, resupply, and EAT! Tomorrow promises things like good food, and clean bodies and clothes, and I'm happy with that. Be Well, Rock Star
Date: 2010-04-20
From: Deer Park Mountain Shelter 

To: Hot Springs, NC 
Miles today: 3.2
Weather: light rain

It was a very low mileage day. The 3.2 miles from the shelter to town was hiked in an hour. I guess we were hungry. The first stop was at Sunnybank Inn, where we put our name on a waiting list for hostel beds. Then we moved on to a very satisfying breakfast at The Smoky Mountain Cafe. The hikers tend to congregate in the back room. We saw a lot of hikers we knew, and a few we had yet to meet. As we were leaving the cafe we ran into River and Fable. They had come into town last night, and were staying at The Iron Horse Inn. They were very happy with their accommodations, and pointed out that for 2 people it was only $10 more, and you have your own bathroom. They also said the beds and pillows were plush. So, we got a room there, too, and took our name off the other waiting list. We checked into our room and promptly took long hot showers. Next up was a trip to the Laundromat, followed by a visit to the outfitters. then it was time for lunch. We enjoyed a beer with our meal, and conversation with Long Shank. Next we took care of some business at the post office. Then back to our room to review our food supply for our needs for the next leg of the hike. A shopping list was made, and we set out to try to find all the items we needed. On the way to the market we saw Mad Mike and Charlie as they were just hiking into town. We gave them the accommodation insights we had gleaned, and they decided The Alpine Court Motel best suited their needs. We stopped at 3 different stores to get the food we needed. I think The Dollar General was better supplied than the small market. On the way back to our room Magnet stopped off to deliver a gift of pork rinds and potato chips to Mad Mike. While there he came up with a trail name for Charlie, who had been a radioman in the navy. He is now proud to be known as Sparky. We made a stop at the library for a bit of internet time. I found out they were selling some used books, and was able to pick up a paperback for a whopping 10 cents. On the way back to our room we were passing The Rock Bottom Cafe. They have an outdoor covered deck seating area. About a dozen hikers were congregated there, so we joined them. We had supper and a couple more beers before returning to our room to organize and pack, for tomorrow we hike. We should get some good rest tonight, and have another good breakfast in the morning. This should prep us well for the day's hike, and I'm happy with that. Be Well, Rock Star
Date: 2010-04-21
From: Hot Springs, NC 

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

We had hoped for a good night's sleep and an early start today, unfortunately neither happened. A lot more tossing and turning occurred than sleeping last, maybe beer was the culprit. In any event we will be avoiding alcohol. It is expensive and tends to make it tougher to hike. We had a big breakfast in town, stopped at Elmer's Sunnybank Inn so Magnet could look over the register from 1983 when he hiked and stayed there, and finally got hiking at 1050. We made it to our destination at 1700. We had a couple of short breaks, and a small side trail to the Rich Mountain Fire tower. Magnet really likes fire towers, and this one wasn't too far off the AT. There were 360 degree views. Today's weather was partly sunny, but more overcast. It looked like rain a few times, but we stayed dry. The forecast is for 30% chance of showers overnight, then clear tomorrow. Here's the reality check. Magnet is focused and able. When his pack is heavy, or he has aches he just takes it in stride (no pun intended), no complaining from him. He has the heart and soul of a thru hiker. Me, on the other hand, well, that's another story. It seems there has been one thing after another. First a sore quadriceps, then a bunch of blisters. There was the anxiety and poor appetite through the Smokys, and there's been way too much whining and tears all along the way. Oh and let's not forget that I started this hike deconditioned and 40 pounds overweight. I do have some good days, when I feel fairly strong. And there have been some amazing sites, and wonderful people. But too often I struggle with thoughts of home. This is not the heart of a thru hiker, but I haven't thrown in the towel, I'm still out here. Leaving town is difficult for some and a relief for others. It is difficult for me. I do feel better about hiking now that I'm a day's hike out of town. I do want to share this hike experience with Magnet. So I will keep trying to improve my attitude. I know my troubles, both physical and emotional, are hard on him. He continues to give me good reasons to keep at it. If only my feet wouldn't ache so much at the end of the day, or at least if they did, I wish I didn't care. If I can get positive about this hike, I will be happy with that.....and so will Magnet! Be Well, Rock Star
Date: 2010-04-22
From: Spring Mountain Shelter 

To: Jerry Cabin Shelter 
Miles today: 15.4
Weather: few clouds

Today was sunny, breezy at times, and probably in the high 60's. I was warm and sweating while hiking in shorts and tank top, but felt chilled whenever we stopped. Bugs weren't bad while we were moving, but seemed to find their way to me whenever we'd stop. I really, really, really do NOT like black flies. They bite. Today the trail went up, then down, then up. It repeated that trend. Sometimes I can handle the ups without too much difficulty. Other times it feels like I just can't go. Today I experienced both of these. I wish I knew what makes the difference. Magnet thinks it's all in my head. He may be right. Even so, I wish I knew how not to feel defeated by an ascent. Crying on the trail is just no good. Today's significant trail was over a rocky exposed ridgeline. I enjoyed the rock, even though it slows me down, and makes my feet tire more quickly. We arrived at the shelter around 1630, and cooked supper. Magnet left it up to me if we stayed put for the night, or hiked a few more miles after supper. I really considered it, but it clouded up a bit and I was concerned our planned destination may be an exposed peak. So, I chose to stay. I know he could have easily hiked on. I hope I can get to that mind set. If I do I'll be happy with that. Be Well, Rock Star
Date: 2010-04-23
From: Jerry Cabin Shelter 

To: Hogback Ridge Shelter 
Miles today: 14.7
Weather: few clouds

We had some rain at 0330 this morning. Once again, we thought we would try to get an early start, but didn't get hiking until 0900. Neither of us slept very well, and the idea of packing up in the rain was not very motivating. The good news is by the time we started packing up, the rain stopped. There were a few clouds today, but it was mostly sunny. This morning a good stretch of the trail was along an old forest road. And, while the morning hike was pretty easy, it was a big climb in the afternoon that made me apprehensive. As it turned out, though the climb was hard work, I really did fine. I had to stop to catch my breath a few times, but I didn't find it stressful or upsetting. No tears on the trail today. Yay! Magnet was in a very good humor all day, and his comments had me laughing. This helped deal with the climb. As a matter of fact, the only really annoying thing today was the biting black flies. It makes breaks not very relaxing, and cooking supper kinda unhappy. However, eating supper was a delight. Mac & cheese with tuna never tasted so good. Tomorrow includes a climb up Big Bald. The profile map makes it look daunting, but I don't remember it being miserable, so I guess I'll be fine. We heard it might rain, but if this forecast turns out to be incorrect, we'll be happy with that. Be Well, Rock Star
Date: 2010-04-24
From: Hogback Ridge Shelter 

To: Sam's Gap then Erwin, TN 
Miles today: 2.6
Weather: overcast clouds

A nonconventional day. We had a weather report that the day had a high possibility of severe thunder storms with heavy rain. Our planned hike would have taken us across Big Bald, which is over 5,000 feet, and is a wide expanse of exposed peak, that takes about a half hour to clear. I was feeling worried that we could get stuck in an electrical storm in the open elevation. We got hiking by 0630, and got to the road at Sam's Gap by 0730. Magnet knew I was worried, and wanted to do something to make me more comfortable. Our guide book indicated there was a small restaurant about 3 miles down the road from the gap. So he told me if a car came by to put up my thumb. Which is what I did, and that's how we came to have eggs, hash browns, and bacon for breakfast. Over breakfast we decided if we could get a ride to Erwin, TN, about 20 highway miles away, we would do so. I asked a number of restaurant patrons if they were going to Erwin, but kept striking out. Just as we went outside to put on our packs and try to get a ride the 3 miles back to the trail, a woman walked by and began talking to us. When she learned of our situation she offered to give us a ride after she and her husband ate breakfast. They declined our offer to buy their breakfast, but we managed to swipe the check from their table, anyway. So, these nice people, John and Margaret, gave us a ride to Uncle Johnny's Hostel in Erwin. The hostel was hopping busy, and it took a few hours before we knew we would have a cabin for the night. Overnight it poured, complete with hail stones, so overall we were happy to be there. Of course, in hind sight, we began to realize it may be a bit tricky getting BACK to Sam's Gap to continue our hike. For tonight, I am warm and dry, and I'm happy with that. Be Well, Rock Star
Date: 2010-04-25
From: iron mountain road

To: Destination: Erwin, TN 
Miles today: 20.0
Weather: scattered clouds

OK, things might get a little confusing, so bear with me. We thought we were going to get thunder storms again today, and originally planned to take a zero day to try and wait out the bad weather. Early this morning, Magnet learned of a shuttle to take hikers 20 trail miles away, north of Erwin. Thus enabling them to use a day pack with just the day's necessary provisions, and hike the 20 miles back to the hostel in one day. We reasoned that even if the weather was bad, we would end up at the hostel, where we could get warm and dry. So, we quickly gathered our stuff together, and made the shuttle. We began hiking shortly after 8. It was an interesting day, as we were able to see a number of hikers who had been a day or two ahead of us, as they continued to hike north, while we hiked south. Our hiking weather was fine. Mostly sunny, and comfortable warm. There were a lot of fluffy clouds, but we didn't get rained on. We crossed Unaka Mountain, with it's heavily conifered peak. And the bald of The Beauty Spot offered 360 degree views. As the day wore on, it became clear that, even with a very light pack, 20 miles was taxing. We made it back to the hostel at 1720, which gave us enough time to shower and make the shuttle to town for supper. We still have the dilemma of finding our way back to Sam's Gap tomorrow, but I'm clean and fed, and I'm happy with that. Be Well, Rock Star
Date: 2010-04-26
From: Destination: Erwin, TN 

To: Erwin, TN in a round about way
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: light rain

This is the entry I was hoping not to have to write. But here it is: Rock Star is gone, but Magnet hikes on. After a lot of soul searching that has gone on for weeks, I have come to the conclusion that I will be leaving my hike. I have been struggling to enjoy it, and it's just not coming together for me. I know Magnet can hike far and strong. We are both disappointed and very sad to not continue to share this adventure together. Magnet says he just doesn't understand why I am leaving, and honestly, I'm not sure I understand why either. As time goes by maybe I will be able to articulate better. Suffice to say it is upsetting and emotional. The good news (and there is a LOT of good news), we are both healthy and injury free, and our relationship is also strong. I will continue to document Magnet's hike here, and who knows, maybe at some point I will make my way back to the trail, too. Since I won't have first hand knowledge of the trail, the Magnet updates may often be brief, but I'll share what I can.Our day today found us traveling in vehicles....a lot.We were shuttled to Tri-Cities Airport to pick up a rental car at 4pm. It was kinda a cool little vehicle; a Kia Soul. From there we traveled north to Damascus to the outfitters to get Magnet solo gear. Kudos to Sundog Outfitters for giving us a discount on a new tent and cookpot. Then back to Erwin to stay at the Super 8. I will be taking him back to Sam's Gap tomorrow, so he can finish the section we skipped to get into town. LATER:We were having a lot of trouble sleeping, so we went to Wal-Mart at 0230, so Magnet could resupply for the section from Iron Mt Road, to Kincora Hostel. We will leave a drop box at Uncle Johnny's in Erwin.I am heartbroken to not be with my husband physically, but know we are close emotionally and spiritually, and I am happy with that.Be Well,Tina
Date: 2010-04-27
From: Erwin, TN 

To: Erwin, TN
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: moderate rain

OK, another change in plans. It is POURING! And we didn't get much sleep last night, and we need some together time to help begin to process the change in hike status. So, Magnet will wait to resume his hike until tomorrow (the weather is predicted to be sunny!), and today we will take a mini road trip to visit Asheville, NC.It was a good road trip, we visited some galleries, ate at a deli, and drove around admiring the architecture. There was so much more to see and do, but we were pretty tired, so got back to our motel around 4.Once back at the Super 8 we discovered a lot of hikers we know had checked in; The Professor, Uncas, Fairy Princess and Red Beard, Mad Mike, Sparky, Cabana Boy, and Dutch Tape. Since we have a vehicle, I offered to shuttle everyone to a Mexican restaurant. While still at the hotel, it was rough telling the others I was leaving the trail. I started crying. Mad Mike, and then Sparky gave me hugs. Thanks, guys. Nice comments from everyone. Oh, the food was very good at Azteca's.We have our things pretty well packed up. Tomorrow should be nice hiking weather for Magnet, and good driving weather for me, and I'm happy with that.Be Well,Tina
Date: 2010-04-28
From: Sam's Gap

To: Erwin, TN
Miles today: 24.6
Weather: clear sky

I dropped Magnet off at Sam's Gap around 1000. It was hard watching him hike up the trail. Then I set off on my 10+ hour drive home. I stopped along the way to buy some non-trail clothes (hey, I lost enough weight to drop 2 pant sizes!), and a couple of books on tape to help with the drive home.I have to change my eating habits now. I am looking at this as an opportunity to adopt healthier lifestyle habits, and I will begin by trying not to overeat or fill up on junk. On the drive home I ate apples, mixed nuts, yogurt and water.....in small portions.I got a text message from Magnet around 2100. He hiked the entire section back to Erwin! That's nearly 25 miles. Heck, if I knew he was gonna do that he could have slack packed it. He said he got to Uncle Johnny's around 2030. His comment was good miles, good smiles, and too much good food.I felt very proud of him.I had a pretty tearful drive home. Entering the house was hard, all the remnants of our departure were there to welcome me. However, my husband and dog were missing. As Magnet says, this will be OK.Tomorrow I will get utilities turned back on, and I can take a hot shower as often as I like, and I'll be happy with that.Be Well,Tina
Date: 2010-05-29
From: Home

To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

I have set up a new journal for Magnet, so other hikers he meets can find his journal by searching for Magnet. The direct link iswww.trailjournals.com/MagnetAT2010The entries from the early part of the hike (the part when we were both hiking) are abbreviated in his journal, but the long winded version will remain here in my journal.Be well, Tina (aka Rock Star)
Date: 2010-03-10
To: Home
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: scattered clouds

Another year, another $, or 2, or 3. Yeah right! How about mucho dinero down the hiking hole. But what fun we have. So, another fresh start on the trail. Much has changed since last year. More obligations with family health to reckon with. Seems like life keeps getting in the way of hiking, but that's why its called life I guess. Better than the other option by FAR!!!   I have managed to cut my pack weight by a fair amount this year, about 4 pounds less than last year. Switched to down quilts with my Warbonnet Blackbird hammock, so I don't use a bag, pad, nor tent anymore. Would like to go to a ULA Catalyst before starting this next section, which could cut out another half-pound. This would put my base weight right at 20 lbs. This is without food, water, and clothes. I should be around 28 lbs total fully loaded for 4 days travel. I still have some cutting to do in a few places to try and reduce to about 18 lbs for my base.   I plan to start with no practice this year, since I'm getting exercise working on the farm. I suspect I'll start a lot slower this year, but from GroseClose/I-81 crossing the terrain is not as rugged as further south. Hoping this gives me a few days to adjust my muscles and mileage.
Date: 2010-03-17
To: Home
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: few clouds

Today my new ULA Catalyst arrived. I have already started the packing to see how this thing is going to work. Tomorrow I'll try it out for a few steps around the neighborhood. First impression is that it is more cavernous than the Mountainsmith Boundary I have used the past 2 years, but not as many closed pockets for storage. Have to be careful not to "fill'er up". This should shave off another 1/2 pound from the load if all stays the same as was in the Boundary. More to come later