morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2004-10-14
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

      This is a personal thought/experience I really had not intended to post on Trailjournals, but I talked to Dan last night and he inspired me to share these random out of chronology very personal experiences in my journals--these are the thoughts I usually keep on the inside--but I figure this six month walk will be an introspective one with lots of other entries like it...p>      After class yesterday I was walking the four miles across campus (good training with a 50 lb. backpack full of books) to the commuter parking lot when I had a very strange sensation. It was a beautiful October day; a rare seventy degrees with no humidity in southern Louisiana¢and I had the most enjoyable sensation of walking¢like I was intimately connected with the action and had an intense connection to my body, muscles, and mind carrying me across campus. I was in no hurry and enjoying the people I passed on my way. Naturally these thoughts wandered to my upcoming hike and made me realize there is something inside of me; animalistic maybe or spiritual and probably existing in every human being, however deeply buried; that connects to my desire to walk the Appalachian Trail¢more than getting into the woods, or challenging myself, or any of the other excuses I¢d give for doing this crazy hike. Walking in the mountains for six months is something very organic and natural to me¢something beyond the normal daily world activities I inflict on my person¢something that I was unconscious of up until yesterday¢¦     And then I reached my car and was immediately disconnected from this active experience. As I merged into LSU traffic my muscles tensed and my emotions shut down and I immediately began cursing the other angry drivers on the road. Everything passed by so quickly that I couldn't even see the beauty that surrounded me only minutes before. Some people can drive in peace¢¦It is just beyond me¢¦        I have a distinct feeling that after I hike the trail, however far I go, I will not become a habitual driver ever again¢forever addicted to my vehicle. As I told Dan, I want to buy a bike and live in a city or town where it can take me anywhere I need to go¢¦
Date: 2004-10-16
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

        I¢m at a very strange point in my life¢an adult by society¢s standards but still feeling very young and new to it all (and a little intimidated)¢almost a college graduate but not sure what to do next (besides go hiking for six months and hope that I know after that)¢thinking about stable jobs and houses and paving the way for a family in the future but still wanting the freedom to travel and party and do all those other irresponsible young person things¢¦        I guess I fit the perfect stereotype for a thru-hiker¢in a life transition and can¢t think of a better moment to walk some mountains for a few months. I am at a point in my life where there is no obvious next step besides hiking the Appalachian Trail. It¢s been my life dream and goal for years now, and I give my mom and dad all my love and appreciation for helping me to realize it. The love of a parent for their children is amazing¢my parents are sacrificing time, energy, money, and all their worries and concerns to throw 100 percent support behind my hike.         It¢s strange, but I feel like all I¢ve done is committed some savings, physical training, and myself to the trail. But my ability and desire to hike comes from so many other places¢my dad who introduced and helped me fall in love with hiking ten years ago, the support of my family, friends, and boyfriend, the hundreds of people I¢ve met along the way who have created a trail family that I want to be a part of, the dreamers and doers who have created such a beautiful trail to hike, the support and emails of encouragement from people through this website, and the promise of all the people who will shape the experience I have on my hike next year¢Thank you all.
Date: 2005-01-06
To: Pre-Hike Jitters
Miles today: 0.0

So many people have been wondering when my next entry would be...as many excuses as I could give--exams were killer, christmas was hectic, moving and trail preparation have been all consuming--the biggest reason for my journal hesitation has been self-doubt. Dreaming about the trail all your adult life and facing a real life hike in just over a month are two very different experiences. I've heard a lot about pre-hike jitters, but I did not anticipate the nerves I've had lately. I've been defending this hike for months and anticipating this six month period of my life for years. The questions I've laughed at for months are now giving me nightmares--snakes lurking in my sleeping bag and bears eating me for dessert. The more realistic fears too--the moments of loneliness and homesickness or inability to finish--have lately been paralyzing my ability to tie up last month loose ends.I know the second I set foot on the trail I'll laugh at my paranoia and breathe deep with relief (until it pours down rain and drops 20 degrees and five new blisters pop up As much food as I have to dehydrate and last minute supplies to put together and let's not even mention the physical training left to do, the most important preparation this next month will be mental.Last year my Dad and I planned to hike the first fifty miles south to Springer. The first day was a gruelling 16.5 miles through rain and cold. That night as we lay completely comatose in our tent we were robbed by a wanderer as best I can describe him--only of our clothes and food, but enough to deflate our sore and tired minds when we awoke the next morning. We hiked in to Neels Gap and went home early. As we drove home I was immediately regretful of giving in to a tired mind. I wanted to go back--I craved the peaceful mountains, the accomplishment and exhilaration of finishing--I knew I could have done it had I stayed. What consoles me most at this moment is that amidst all my fear and doubt, I still have the same resolution I did a year ago. A very important part of who I am is alive when I'm in the mountains and in just over a month I'll know that I'm right where I'm supposed to be...
Date: 2005-01-29
To: A Freezing Winter Lesson
Miles today: 0.0

OK, my last entry was a brief insight to the worst of my jitters-more like extreme paranoia and self-doubt. At this point, a mere three weeks before my hike, I'm working my way back up to all-out excitement with minor background trepidation. I've been dehydrating like crazy (Yes, I'm aware of the don't do maildrops-your vegetarian eating habits will change with hiker appetite argument and I'll continue to smile politely at any of your comments...) and talking trail talk non-stop-I'm beginning to feel like a real nerd...I took an interesting test overnight hike two weeks ago with my dad and his friend Bob in the North Georgia Cohutta National Forest. I decided to test my minimalist warm gear in the winter weather, which had the week previous only reached lows in the 40s. Our ill-fated hike saw nighttime lows in the mid to low teens, combined with a foot-deep Conasagua river ford, which combined proved a failing grade for my gear-I also went a little more minimalist than intended by forgetting my tent poles...wasn't a very comfortable night to say the least, but offered several important lessons-I promptly returned home and purchased rain pants (shorts weren't enough) a sleeping bag liner (but I do have to give props to my 20 degree Western Mountaineering which would have kept me warm at 15 degrees had my tent not been laying on top of me most of the night) and a heavy duty thermal top. I also didn't win any additional support from my mom when I mentioned my slight confusion when we stopped for the night-as my dad pointed out a few extra lbs of insulating weight make a difference to my hypothermia danger zone--we all survived, however, and I have to say I haven't felt that alive (and thankful for heat and a warm bed) all winter long...amazingly the trip really helped to pep me up for my departure.Thanks again to all who have signed my guestbook and offered up your support--my next entry will be my final goodbye--unbelievable!!!
Date: 2005-02-16
To: Final Farewell!!!
Miles today: 0.0

I cannot believe this is it--these last few months of preparation have put me through some pretty unexpected emotional shocks. Right now I'm feeling partially psychotic and obsessive compulsive and partially like a little wide-eyed kid about to start their first day of Kindergarten. These are the feelings I haven't heard about from other hikers because I'm sure the EXPERIENCE soon overshadows all the nervous preparation. I went for one of my ritual hikes at Kennesaw Mountain (at a really nice state park right in my hometown)after a harrowing day of last minute preparation. It's amazing, one minute I'm agonizing over the weight savings of adding an additional pair of socks to my gear and the next minute I'm smiling at other happy hikers that are walking out their cares and worries as well. I returned home in a much more relaxed state of mind...There are so many people to thank before I leave. I am SO grateful to everyone who has shown their support through this website-emails and guestbook entries lifted my apprehensive spirit more than their contributors can know. My parents are by far the biggest support network I've had and they've not only made this trip possible, but have offered all the love and help I could ever ask for to send me off toward Maine. I want to thank Mr. Allison for taking me on my first backpacking trip on the AT almost ten years ago and Mr. Wade who accompanied me (and offered a ton of last minute advice) on my final preparation trip last month. And of course Dan, my first and only love that has accepted and supported since we met almost three years ago my absolute NEED to attempt this hike. To all my friends and family-I love you and I will miss you so much. I can't wait to share this adventure with you! See you on the trail...
Date: 2005-02-19
From: Springer Mtn

To: Hawk Mtn Shelter
Miles today: 7.6
Weather: broken clouds

Today was absolutely surreal. The morning was full of nerves and disbelief. Sitting on top of Springer put a lot of things in focus and I finally started feeling relaxed, happy, and thankful. We met a pair of girls out for a couple of days that were headed the wrong way and were glad to point them north. Everyone we met along the way was unbelievably nice-lots of people I'm guessing because of the holiday weekend--only came across one thru-hiker. My dad is out hiking the first week with me, and we're tired and already feeling the soreness which will make us cringe in the morning-but oh how I love that wonderful feeling-where you know with every fiber of your being that you're VERY alive.The temps are creeping toward freezing, but the shelter is crowded and cozy. Hoping for a good night's sleep, but expecting fifulness as I get used to my new home.
Date: 2005-02-20
From: Hawk Mtn Shelter

To: Gooch Gap Shelter
Miles today: 7.1
Weather: moderate rain

Rain and cold make the psychological aspects of hiking tough-they also make the reward at the end of the day even better. Warm clothes, a beautiful shelter, and some hot coffee quickly helped me recuperate. I had planned on starting this hike with a solid three days of sunshine (in the end I left when I just couldn't wait any more) but as dad said, it's good that I've started with a couple of challenging days to toughen me up early. There was good company already at the shelter-Gung Ho with her two corgies and Alpine a 2000 thru-hiker. The four of us talked all afternoon (Dad and I were in by 1pm, left at 8:30) about everything from she-pees (use your imagination) to traveling. It's supposed to be raining again tomorrow-Dad's been cold ever since we got in and is contemplating buying down booties at Neels Gap. We've all been fantasizing about luxury items tonight...but in reality I couldn't be more comfortable with good company, a warm sleeping bag, a FULL belly, rain pattering on our tin roof, and a beautiful view all around.
Date: 2005-02-21
From: Gooch Gap Shelter

To: Hiker Hostel
Miles today: 5.3
Weather: light snow

It poured throughout the night, so we took our time getting out of the shelter. We made coffee and were out by 10AM-quickly met 3 tired hikers who were unaware of the new Gooch Gap shelter relocation--for any southbounders section hiking this area, please note that the new Gooch Mountain shelter has been moved a mile south. Dad and I left during a lull in the rain and spent the morning walking above thick clouds, under thicker rain clouds, and not far away from a mean sounding thunderstorm. Alpine told us last night about this hostel which provides shuttles all around the area (including from Atlanta airport)and will also pick up hikers from Woody Gap; so as we trudged through a creek of a trail and I thought about the slightly too aggressive itinerary I'd set and lightning and thunder boomed not far away, the thought of a warm bed and dry clothes was too much for dad and I to pass up. I know, you all think I'm too soft, but this is why I started a week earlier than I expected. We called Josh (and Leigh, the husband and wife owners)and then Alpine and Gung Ho showed up. Josh and Leigh are the nicest people, have a beautiful hostel, and all four of us couldn't be happier about our decision. Especially now that six pizzas are on thier way from Dominos. Gung Ho has been working on a trail name for me, but nothing has stuck yet.(Later that night) So far my trail name search is leaning toward Peaches...we'll see. Hasn't stuck yet. We ate Pizza for lunch and dinner-feels like a load of bricks on my stomach, but it was soooo good. I finally succeeded in getting in touch with Daniel, which made me even happier if that's possible-I must have been beaming after I got off the phone, because everyone could tell.The weather channel is reporting severe thunderstorms and golf sized hail throughout the north Georgia mountains, so we're feeling a little more justified in our decision...at least not AS wimpy as we did earlier.A few technical updates: Dad and I have hiked 19.9 miles, slowly building strength and endurance. My pack weighs 27 pounds and Dad's 36. My feet are doing beautifully, which is rare among beginning thru-hikers. We'll see how they do with more mileage, but I haven't even felt a hot spot. Psychologically I feel great-positive and strong. I've missed family, friends, siblings, and boyfriend very much-Dan I really could have used a good cuddle last night (now I've embarassed him)...thought about snuggling up with Dad, but he was snoring too loud
Date: 2005-02-22
From: Hiker Hostel

To: Mountain Crossings Hostel
Miles today: 10.7
Weather: overcast clouds

Josh and Old Man had an amazing B-fast of Belgian Waffles, eggs, grits, coffee, and OJ...combined with the most beautiful sunrise I think I've ever seen, we were off to a great day-what a blessing to see the sun! Today was one of those perfect hiking days-great weather, high energy, and great company. Alpine and I really hauled it over Blood Mountain and took a number of pictures. We rock climbed up a huge formation next to the shelter and my pack weight almost threw me over the edge. There was a spectacular view from the top and we all spent an hour soaking up the sun (I'm now quite sunburned) Dad and I headed down to Neels Gap where we loaded up for a meal straight out of every nutritionist's worst nightmare-ice cream sandwhiches, combos, an orange, two V-8s, and a grenn tea with ginseng. (Dad had about 20 vanilla coca-colas...he'll be caffeined buzzed any second now) And if you can believe what wimps we are, we decided to stay at the hostel here (where I've updated trailjournals from so far) Got to talk to my sweetheart again, which is always a morale booster, and spent a great night on the patio watching the moon rise and city lights sparkle in the distance. Gorgeous night and to top it all off we scored another snack attack resupply from the store. Dad and I are finishing a can of salt & vinegar pringles, another tea, and apple juice-man, it's great to have a good excuse to eat like a pig!!!
Date: 2005-02-23
From: Mountain Crossings Hostel

To: Low Gap Shelter
Miles today: 10.6
Weather: broken clouds

Ok, ok-back to "roughing it." We had the most difficult time getting out of Neels Gap-it was a beautiful morning, so I bought extra fuel and treated myself to (powdered)egg and cheese omelet on a bagel that I bought from the store and coffee on the patio of the hostel. The omelet made a mess of my skillet, so I was glad to have running water and a sink for clean up. We left around 9 and had a very energetic and beautiful first half of our hike. We took several pictures (soon to come on the website) and passed the fateful site of last year's robbery (Cow Rock Mountain) We really pooped out the last 2-3 miles of our hike-we failed to take an adequate lunch break, and arrived exhausted (food is quickly becoming an ESSENTIAL part of my hike's success) Unfortunately I discovered 2 small blisters on my right foot-I spoke too soon the other night about my happy feet. But we ate a huge meal and after a good night's sleep will feel like new. Alpine has cleared a nice campsite next to the shelter (and scoffs at us weaklings holing up in the shelter and has built a beautiful fire that we've been sitting around until 9:30-equivalent of a late night party in thru-hiker time!!
Date: 2005-02-24
From: Low Gap Shelter

To: Blue Mountain Shelter
Miles today: 7.2
Weather: light rain

Man, was today rough! You're laughing, right at our measely mileage?? It's amazing how closely tied the physical and mental aspects of hiking are. I'm pretty sure I haven't been eating enough, and my energy plummeted this morning. Combined with cold and rain I was cussing the trail, my pack, and my crazy decision to do this...but the trail is a "study in contrasts" as Dad says and after coffee and a big meal my demeanor has totally changed. Alpine, Gung Ho, and her two dogs just arrived, and Blue Mountain is feeling more like home every minute. The secret of the trail so far I've found is to grind through the tough spots, give yourself something to look forward to, and savour the beautiful moment that's just around the corner. I think my trailname hunt is officially over; Alpine, the all-time lightweight pack Nazi, has just dubbed me "Feather" for my 25 pound pack, which was unanimously confirmed by the shelter mates and holds additional significance to other parts of my life. (Gung Ho also says it fits my demeanor.) It seems only appropriate that our hiking buddies for the first 60 miles of my thru-hike name me. So as cute as Peaches is, just call me Feather!
Date: 2005-02-25
From: Blue Mountain Shelter

To: Deep Gap Shelter
Miles today: 14.8
Weather: few clouds

What a long hard day! Leave it up to me to plan our longest day for the 15 hardest miles in Georgia! The weather couldn't have been more perfect for it, though. Sunny and in the mid 40s. I woke up this morning to all of my shelter mates sitting in silence looking out at the beautiful sunrise...great way to wake up. Didn't see many hikers today-played flip-flop with 3 section hikers and the Virginia boys we sheltered with last night. I've been surprising many grouse (very large birds that sound like helicopters when they fly off) as we hike, and as I am always leading I get the pleasure of peeing my pants each time we cross paths. We finally got to Deep Gap at close to 6pm and now at 7:30 are ready for bed-very interesting shelter with a split upper level-very cool tree house looking design. I would have taken a picture, but I was too exhausted to think straight. Dad and I are tenting now-decided to use this 2 man tent for the first time since we've been lugging it from Springer-with temperatures already at freezing, we've found it much warmer.We had to leave behind our two very new but very dear friends at Blue Mountain Shelter this morning-Alpine and Gung Ho (and of course, her boys Dallys and Griffyn) Luckily we'll see Gung Ho in Hiawassee tomorrow night. Alpine, it truly meant the world to start out my hike with you-you taught me so much and were such a good hiking companion that I worry I'll not find company to match yours. Good luck and God bless.We're camping now under the most gorgeous night sky. I haven't seen stars like these since visiting Dan at Young Harris almost 2 years ago. I thought about you so much today Daniel-We could see the lakes at Hiawassee hiking today and it made me think about Belle Mountain and meeting each other in these same beautiful hills years ago...Already hiking has been the most challenging thing I've done in my life-the most rewarding, most frustrating, loneliest, friendliest, most beautiful, and scariest thing I've done. I worry how I'll cope when Dad returns home...but for now I'll focus on my stay in Hiawassee-a bed, shower, beer, and Chinese food...bet you didn't know Mountain folk can make killer Chinese
Date: 2005-02-28
From: Standing Indian Shelter (N.C.)

To: Big Spring Shelter
Miles today: 14.4
Weather: light snow

I couldn't bring myself to write in my journal last night; suffice it to say by the time I fell asleep my plan was to hike to Franklin and call home for good. It was a dreary, cold, windy (enough to push my pack around and almost bring me down) and lonely day. Leaving my parents and the warm comfy hotel room at Dick's Creek Gap was really tough. I kept thinking about my Dad and what a great week I'd had with him, and my day yesterday didn't match up. Boomerang and Heidi did a great job trying to cheer me up, but every time I tried to talk about things I just started crying. My emotional wreck of a day didn't help me physically to get through a really tough day (Dad, If you'd seen some of these mountains, you would have turned around and gone home, too). By the time we reached Standing Indian it had started snowing, and I thought I'd found my excuse to come home. And then I had nightmares about quitting. . . and I woke up and it was a whole new day. The body and mind have the most amazing resiliency and strength when pushed to their limits. I woke up, and although I still have doubts, walked almost 15 miles in anywhere from 3 to 10 inches of snow (imagine walking on sand uphill with 30 lbs. strapped to your back. . . and then imagine it's 30 degrees with a lot of wind). Heidi and I had really good talks about the trail and motivation and I've just decided to take it one day at a time and quit when there's no fun or satisfaction left for me on the trail.Dad, I really missed you out here-thank you for introducing me to this dream and taking the first steps of the journey with me. You're the best hiking companion I'll ever have. Mom, thanks for letting us both pursue this crazy love of ours for so many years and for supporting us so much as I hike. I'd like to tell the world, or the thousand some odd people (or whatever the web site count is) that read my journals that I have the best parents in the world. Dad, you thought Albert Mountain was tough before, try hiking it in the snow!!! The snow is pretty bad, and we're worried about moisture and plain freezing to death, so we're gonna try getting in to Franklin, N.C. tomorrow afternoon. That's trail life - and any life I guess - continual, non-stop, ongoing adaptation.