morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2003-07-17
From: Past The Midpoint Marker

To: Boiling Springs
Miles today: 16.0
Weather: clear sky

      I slept great last night. Awoke to a cool, clear, breezy, almost chilly morning. I was lazy getting up, but started out about 7am. The trail today was generally smooth and path-like initially. I was able to move quickly I encountered the rock jungle gym. Meandering through the maze took time. Chow Down and his brother, Rock Steady, caught me. We hiked toward town through corn and soybean fields, glad for today's breeze. Though it was hot, it could be stifling crossing those fields another day. Entering town, I went to the ATC office passing the large pond and park, which is the centerpiece of the town. The primitive camping area is half mile south of town and didn't sound inviting.       There isn't much in the way of accomodations in Boiling Springs. I set up in the backyard of a B&B that I was told allowed hikers to tent there. No one answered the door, but I was told it was okay to stay there. I went over and soaked my feet in the pond, and then hung out with the other hikers at the ATC office until dark. Chow Down and his brother came and stayed in the yard with me.
Date: 2013-04-22
From: Stealth camp @spring 308.1

To: Sam's Gap 
Miles today: 9.3
Weather: clear sky

What a cold night it was! I couldn't get warm and didn't sleep well. I'm going to be a whiner today - I had no energy, my blisters on my little toes have finally healed but now my left knee is protesting when I climb (not when going downhill or level). Okay - glad that's out of the way. I feel better already!My companions today were from the Carolina Mountain Club. They are part of a volunteer group out of Asheville, NC that maintains the Appalachian Trail from North end of the Smokies all the way to Spivey Gap, over 90 miles. I met the first group and had a bit of banter over them hiking with their saws - not quite sure if it would be safety approved and saying that they could fall on their 'saw' (as opposed to falling on your sword). They said there were a couple of guys working back at the shelter and they were serving lunch (sadly, they were kidding). Of course, when I saw them I asked where the hot dogs were. Nice guys all of them - and fun to meet. Their section of the trail is very well maintained. They have quite a few work crews and a regular schedule when they go out. I took their photo and said I would post it so all would know they were doing their duties and not hanging out at the donut shop drinking coffeeI am now at Socks and Hoop's apartment in Asheville - had a delicious chicken dinner and a long hot shower. I feel almost human again.
Date: 2003-07-18
From: Boiling Springs

To: Duncannon
Miles today: 25.0
Weather: light rain

      Slept little with all the noises in town: trains, cars, sirens, music, etc. Very early in the morning I went down to the convenience store for coffee. I returned to pack my gear, then grabbed a breakfast sandwich on the way out of town. I expected to exit through the same open fields as coming into town. The trail, however, passed through beautiful woods and field edges for miles. I saw rabbits, deer, ground chuck, and a zillion squirrels. With the berry bushes and the oak, pine, birch, and ash trees bordering oat and hay fields lined with old rock walls, it was a wildlife paradise. Hunting here must be phenomenal.       The miles sailed by quickly until Darlington Shelter. Then the rocks started, and going got slower and more painful. I beat myself to death to get to Duncannon, using every ounce of energy today.       Molasses called down from the balcony as I approached the Doyle Hotel. After a long day I was crushed when I found out they didn't have any rooms. I almost fell asleep at the bar. They called around and gave me a ride up to the Star Dust Motel. Enroute we drove into a severe storm with high winds and driving rain, slowing us to 20mph on the highway.       I checked in and dropped my gear in the doorway of my room. There was no place to eat, so I decided to order some food from a place that delivered. I opened a drawer looking for a phone book and found it swarming with cockroaches. I went down to the office and got a different room at the other end of the motel. After a brief inspection, I settled into the worst place I have stayed on this trip. $40 for a dumpy, spartan room. Today I retired my original liner socks. 1100 miles on that one pair, but now so thread-bare that they can no longer be repaired.
Date: 2013-04-23
From: Sam's Gap 

To: Asheville, NC
Miles today: 0.0

Had a great time in Asheville! This is such a young, active city! Everyone is friendly and all the men have beards (haha-makes you feel like you are still on the trail.Hoop recently purchased a canoe so after all our errands were run and Socks got off work, we headed to the French Broad to do an inaugural float down the river. Hoop kinda fell in putting it in the water but it didn't dampen the party. We had some little rapids for excitement and saw a river otter. So cool! I've only seen otters in the zoo - never in their natural habitat. At the end of our trip, we put in at the Bywater. This is a cool bar right on the river where you can bring your own food, hang out in their spacious outdoor area and enjoy family and friends. There were many families with children (and thanks again to the one nice lady that gave us the awesome cupcake and gluten free brownie-they were so good!).It's hard to believe that I've been out here for a month! The time has really gone by so quickly and I am settled in a routine of hike, hike, hike. The AT boot camp is working-when I put on the jeans I wore down here, they hung like a feed sack (although I still have LOTS of excess I can still lose). I enjoy my daily walks in the woods so that is the main thing.This next section includes Roan Mountain, which is the last time we'll be above 6000 ft until New Hampshire. And then Virginia is just up the road - my 4th state (and the longest). Just chipping away a little at a time...
Date: 2003-07-19
From: Duncannon

To: Duncannon
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: scattered clouds

      Zero day at the Doyle! Got a ride back into town from the manager of the motel. At the Doyle, I used the computer and had a burger and a beer. Later, I wandered up to the convenience store to get some ice cream, and watched the girl gang leave town. In the afternoon I caught the free shuttle provided by the grocery store to resupply. I walked down by the river on a beautiful evening, and grabbed some food down the street. Returning to the Doyle, I listened to Sue Grace singing in a coffeehouse atmosphere while drinking Pennsylvania beer.       That's what zero days are for---relaxing!!
Date: 2013-04-24
From: Sam's Gap 

To: Whistling Gap
Miles today: 11.2

Sams gap to whistling gap 11.2What is it about this trail that gets into people's systems? Today I ran into Tech, whom I haven't seen since before the Smokies. Actually, I didn't recognize him so much as his pack - he carries a big solar charger to power up his computer. Tech is a writer and is doing an interview a day. He told me about that day's talk with Circuit Rider, a pastor, doing his 9th thru-hike. Yep, you read that correctly 9th! He is a very nice man and quite sane.I had a short hike today as I didn't get back on the trail until after 1 pm. The big climb was over Big Bald but I was rested and well fed so it went well. Thunderstorms were 50/50 and I kept checking the sky but really thought I was going to miss them. No such luck - as soon as I was on that big old bald the skies opened up. Totally unprepared (duh, Little SAS) I scrambled to get my wet gear and pack cover on. That done, I lickety split hiked as fast as I could to get off that high open space. Fortunately, no lightening but you never know.I'm currently camped at Whistling Gap with three other tents. Nice spot with a piped spring(they are the best!). The wind is whistling and it is raining off and on. We had a fire going for a while but it was a losing proposition.Norovirus is still going around and it is not recommended that you even go near the shelters. They are like ghost towns How long will that continue?
Date: 2003-07-22
From: Past Rausch Creek

To: Hertlein Campsite
Miles today: 20.2
Weather: light rain

      The morning was very humid, hot and hazy. I was up, packed and moving before it was even light. Having enough water is a major concern of mine, especially on days like this. I'll bet one third of my pack weight is water when I have a full load. Today I drank at least two gallons, plus what I drank after stopping. My clothes and bandana were soaking wet all day.   Stopped by the 501 shelter to look around and to get water at the caretaker's house. Debated staying in such a nice place, but it was a bit too early to stop for the night. Went by Shower's Steps, which may have been built by a distant relative. Apparently he liked steps alot more than I do--they are my #1 least favorite thing, hence, I didn't go and play on them.      There were a few rain clouds that offered a few sprinkles in the afternoon. The atmosphere is ripe for more storms this evening as the heat builds. When I got to the campsite, I looked for, and found, a spot that would drain well. Thunder was rumbling in the distance, and it was very hazy, obscuring anything but the ridge I was on. It was like an instant replay of last night's storm, except the winds were stronger.       Having the doors of the tent properly placed, and the lines taut kept the flopping to a minimum, and the interior dry. It didn't eliminate the gym locker smell. I set the damp, sweaty stuff aside and put on dry clothes to sleep in. Then I will change back in the morning.
Date: 2013-04-27
From: Apple Orchard Camp

To: Roan High Knob Shelter
Miles today: 12.4
Weather: overcast clouds

There's a book I used to read to the kids called something like-Alexanders No Good Horrible Terrible Day. Well that was my day today - Little SAS's No Good Horrible Terrible Day. Of course it involved rain, packing up a wet tent and a humongous mountain to climb. Yeah! Fun!I just couldn't get motivated. Also, a bit low on food so had to detour over a mile to resupply at Greasy Creek Hostel. As it turned out, totally unnecessary because a man doing trail magic gave me an apple and snacks-it would have been enough to get me by. Oh well, you never know. The apple, by the way, was soooo delicious.The big climb was Roan and they did some trail rerouting to improve the steep climb ( 4 mile climb). It did help but added miles which the guidebook didn't reflect. That's all well and fine except for the psychological factor on one having a bad day. I thought that mountain would never end!I finally made it to Roan High Knob shelter around 5 - like a cold and wet puppy. The shelter is the highest on the AT - 6194 feet. It is an actual cabin with loft and door. Only thing missing is the fireplace. I snug here with Kokopelli and his dog Dee Dee, Whirled Peas, Orion, Davy Crocket, Newton and Gary. We were all in our bags at 6. The younger ones in the loft, older ones on first floor. The younger ones were chatting - Kokopelli said 'geesh! I wish they would be quiet' 'but Kokopelli' I said, ' it's only 7 o'clock'. Such a different world out here!It rained solid all night and the wind howled. I stayed warm in my bag and probably got an accumulated 8 hours of sleep. After all, we were in bed for 12 hours!
Date: 2003-07-26
From: Palmerton, PA

To: Wind Gap (plus some)
Miles today: 22.0
Weather: scattered clouds

      I enjoyed my brief visit to Palmerton. My dinner, comprised of Chinese takeout, was surprisingly good. Watching the activity on the main street was entertaining as I ate on the front steps of the hostel building. Down in the basement, I dropped a mattress over near a large floor fan. I figured that would drown out any snoring I may do. It was quite comfortable there sleeping on the floor.       In order to beat the heat, I was up and out before anyone else. Hitched a ride to Lehigh Gap, and started the rocky climb and barren ridge walk. I caught a quick glimpse of a fox on the trail ahead of me near the ski area. I also scooped up a very handsome box turtle. She was dark brown with golden highlights. After a brief inspection to ensure all hinges were operating properly, I sent her on her way. I encountered a couple day hiking who warned me about a large rattlesnake along the trail ahead. I never saw the rattler, though I did see a black snake farther on. I also saw rocks, rocks, and more rocks. Hour after hour, mile after mile, of nasty, painful rocks. Thanks to the early start though I made good mileage.       When I got to Wind Gap, I went to the Gateway Motel, hoping to reward myself with a night in a bed and a shower. The lady there, who wasn't all that friendly, said they were full. I bought two cans of Pepsi from her and sat outside drinking them, formulating a plan of action. I didn't have much choice but to continue until I found a place to camp. I asked the lady at the motel if she would fill my water container, but she returned saying she couldn't, but offered to sell me all the little bottles of water I wanted for 75 cents apiece!!! She said I would have to go into town a mile away to get water otherwise. I headed that way, when I saw an older gentleman sitting on a bench in his yard. I also noticed he had a hose hooked up in the yard. I went over and introduced myself. It seems he was just sitting there waiting for Brown Bess to come over to chat and get some water. We sat and talked for a little while after I filled my container. It was getting late and I had to be on my way. He gave me his name and address and made me promise to send him a post card from Maine if I ever got there.       I went back to the trailhead and started the steep climb up from the parking area. Fifty yards up I saw what first looked like garbage bags someone had dumped, but turned out to be trail magic. I went from disgust to elation. It really made my day. I took a bottle of coke and a candy bar from the cache and headed upward. Usually when you climb out of a gap, there is a camping spot when you reach the top. But I was not so lucky tonight. I went at least a mile before I found a mediocre spot to set up. It had been a long, rough day. My knees, ankles, and feet all hurt. It felt like I had ripped something along my right lateral heel that caused searing pain if I twisted my foot a certain way. I was glad to get the boots off and a mega-dose of ibuprofen taken, along with the magical coke and candy bar.
Date: 2013-05-01
From: Stealth Camp 407.8

To: Dennis Cove Rd.
Miles today: 8.7
Weather: scattered clouds

I was awake at 6 AM and laid around until 6:30 when I decided I may as well start my day. It didn't take long to pack up and I was on my way by 7. I love hiking in the morning. You have a better chance of spotting wildlife and the birds are chirping away.The walk was easy and I had fresh legs so I arrived at Kincora by 11:30. I had a moment of guilt for stopping so early on such a nice day but I wanted to experience this hostel - I don't know if I will pass this way again, although this part of the trail has been my favorite.Bass was there so I talked to him for a bit then took a shower and washed clothes. Later, Gary ( thru hiker from Kansas City) told me of the private room in the back that was up for grabs. Thanks! I moved all my things down there pronto. Unfortunately, Gary had to get off the trail due to knee issues. I hope he will be fine - he was one of the seven that spent the night at Roan High Knob shelter. I will never forget that day or that group.Bob Peoples, owner of Kincora, took us to the local town at 5 so we could buy dinner and supplies. There were some makings for chocolate chip cookies already at the hostel so Spider bought some white sugar, I bought brown sugar and made up a batch of cookies for everyone. They were gone as soon as they came out of the oven. Hit the spot!And seven cats live here - I am in cat heaven!
Date: 2003-07-27
From: Wind Gap (plus some)

To: Delaware Water Gap
Miles today: 14.6
Weather: broken clouds

      It was hot, very humid, but with a breeze st times today. I just plain didn't do well contending with the continuous rocks and treacherous rock formatiions. The fifteen miles today felt like fifty. Once I had passed the last shelter, I had committed to making it to town--and I almost didn't make it. I swear, if it had been two miles farther, I never would have made it in. Sometimes you just have a bad day on the trail, and this was one of them.      I arrived at the Church of the Mountain hostel very sore and tired. The very kind woman pastor kept asking me if I was okay. I wasn't too sure myself. All of the bunks were taken, so I settled onto the front porch of the annex. I limped down the hill to a pizza place and got a 2 liter bottle of Sprite which I drank across the street at a little park. As I returned to the hostel, it began raining and washed out the free jazz concert going on next door.      This is a very nice hostel provided by the church. They have an overflow shelter outback that is just like the trail shelters, metal roof and all. They even welcome heathens like me, for which I'm very grateful. I took a shower, rinsed out my clothes, and crawled up to the porch for the night. I was too tired to do much socializing with all the other hikers here.
Date: 2013-05-02
From: Dennis Cove Rd.

To: US 321
Miles today: 8.6
Weather: overcast clouds

Slack packed today over Pond Flat Mountain. A group of six (Windy and Breeze, Orion, Davy C, Spider and Little SAS) were dropped off at US 321 and then headed south to end up back at the hostel. This approach is more gradual and so easier than the steep other side. Total mileage only 8.6 - going to be a nice day!After going over the mountain about 6 miles into the hike, there is a trail going into the nearby town of Hampton, TN. I had the biggest craving for a Mocha Frappe and so sunk to the lowest of depths. I walked an extra two miles (one way!) to go to McDonalds! Plus, I packed out a big chicken salad for dinner - it hit the spot.I also had my first experience at hitchhiking. Well, really Orion got the ride but I'm sure I added the 'safe' factor to picking up two dirty hikers. The lady was from the area and said she often helped out the hikers. She was very nice and saved us two miles. I asked her if she ever hiked up in the mountains and she said 'oh no, honey. It isn't safe!' Uh - okay...Our hike took us by Laurel Falls. Sadly, this was the location of a double drowning last year - father/son hikers. There is a strong undertow under the falls and it was thought one went under and the other tried to save him. Their packs were on the bank - no one was there to witness it.I'm back at the hostel now and just took a shower. The place is packed and quite noisy. I'm ready to go back to the woods for the peace and quiet.Next town stop is Damascus, VA and should be in three days. Yep, you read that right. I will soon be in my fourth state! Virginia!
Date: 2003-07-28
From: Delaware Water Gap

To: Delaware Water Gap
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

      I didn't get much sleep last night. I went down to the diner for a big breakfast, as I didn't eat yesterday. I bought and mailed a couple of postcards, and wished I had my address book to send a few more.       My right foot is still painful and I decided to stick around here today. I hung my clothes out to dry, did a few errands, and stopped by the bakery for a treat. That bakery is a place you could hurt yourself! I had a cup of coffee(free) and a huge piece of warm apple pie.      Hanging out and talking with the other malingerers wasted away the rest of the day. Come evening, quite a few people I knew came into town, and I shared my pizza with some of them. We sat and talked until after dark. Then I slunk off to the porch, so as to get an early start in th morning.
Date: 2013-05-03
From: US 321

To: Double Springs Shelter
Miles today: 23.3
Weather: overcast clouds

I said my fond farewell to Kincora this morning. Bob Peoples dropped us off at the trailhead by Watauga Lake. I was quite ready to move on. I've been a bit sluggish lately in the hiking department so was eager to get some miles in. The first part of the hike goes along the lake to the dam - where you cross over. At the dam I met Safety Bob, a super nice guy out supervising a crew doing safety checks on the dam. He offered some trail magic, which I readily accepted (apple and honey bun).Bob said that he just recently became aware of the whole hiker thing when he helped out a young couple recently that had medical issues. Since then when he is out on the dam, he'll bring along trail magic to hand out. We talked about the trail for awhile and in the course of the conversation said that he was the father of five girls. What a coincidence! I also come from a family of five girls (no boys).After the dam, I didn't run into a single soul until 4 that afternoon when I met up with Beerdra at a water source. It's odd how you can have days like that - the trail seems deserted while other days it is teeming with hikers.So, you may have noticed that Little SAS put in some wicked mileage today. It was due to a couple of reasons:1) Today was to be the best day for hiking temperature wise.2) Rain is in the forecast in another day.3) There aren't any noteworthy parts in this section. It is basically covering ground to get to Mt. Rogers in VA.When I decided to keep pushing on to the shelter, I knew I would have to stop and eat something. There was a road crossing coming up so I decided to stop there. But, in a clearing just prior to the road, there was a large metal box with a cooler recently filled with sodas (the ice was very fresh) and different kind of snacks left by a very nice church group. I danced with joy! Seriously - I was so happy. It is the best when it comes totally out of the blue. What a mood lifter!So, with reinforced energy, I started on the last five miles of my longest day - which led through a cow pasture full of mama and babies. I had one little calf blocking the trail which I shooed away. Mama didn't like that and she started following me. Really? You want to hike to Maine? I got to the shelter at 8 PM. Foolhardy, Tumbleweed and Whirled Peas are camping. I slept in the shelter. A long day but very satisfying. I did take one aspirin before retiring (I rarely take anything). I knew something was going to hurt - and it did - my whole body!
Date: 2003-07-29
From: Delaware Water Gap

To: Bunk Road Shelter
Miles today: 24.0
Weather: broken clouds

      I was up and gone at first light. It was surprising how much traffic there was that early in the morning as I crossed the bridge into New Jersey. It was a bit unnerving on the bridge across the Delaware River. Cars and trucks were rushing by to one side and the other side was high above the river. I could see the blue herons fishing far below in the shallows. The visitor center was, of course, closed.      I found that I hadn't left the rocks behind, and heard they would continue for many miles yet. Sunfish Pond was still and quiet in the early morning, and a beautiful setting. My other highlight of the day was seeing the first bears of the trip. A female and two cubs were working over some berry bushes. I spotted them before they knew I was around.   The young ones were chasing each other around and wrestling, while mom poked around in the brush. Eventually they wandered away from the trail, but I was able to watch them undetected for a long time.       I passed the Mohican Outdoor Center since I was carrying enough water to get to a spring along the trail. I was consciously being careful walking today to try to avoid reinjuring my right foot. With darkness coming on, I found a tent site near the shelter. The rocks again took their toll, and I was very tired and sore, especially after stopping. That is when I stiffen up, and try to stretch things out before I turn in for the night.