morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2008-05-03
From: Hot Springs

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

Lacking a lot of sleep last night, I slept in later than normal. Packing up was slow. We headed down to say goodbye to Tracy, ChiChi and her kids.They have been legendary as Trail Angels. I will miss them very,very much.Afterward, we all headed to the Smoky Mtn.Diner to share one last breakfast together as a group. This was Maverick & Rawhide's treat. Thanks Guys.It was only 1 month ago that we came together and became this merry band of "misfits & marauders". Now our path's appear to be taking different directions other than all heading North. Saying goodbye has been happening to frequently. Not knowing if it is for the last time makes it even more difficult?The new plan is for everyone to meet up again in Damascus for "Trail Days", we'll see? How do you say goodbye to close friends that you have made and have been through so much together in a relatively short time? You don't, you say Until....? And so goes life on the AT.Heading back through town one last time, we pass the "iconic" picnic table. There are already new faces that have found it. Today is not as hot as yesterday. Good thing, though starting to dry up, the heat really makes poison ivy feel a lot worse. This is a little butt-kicker enough. After crossing the river and walking along it for a short way, the trail seemed to go straight up or so it seemed? I have noticed this about "Zero" days. They always feel good while you're enjoying one, but you pay for it afterward. Much like having sex then getting married.We have now been pared down to three. Springloaded is staying an extra day so it is just Sprite, Freckles and myself. I have mentioned them several times, we have been hiking together since leaving the Hawk Mtn. Shelter the second day on the trail.I never would have guessed in a million years that I would be hiking with two ladies? We have become very close friends.We have all come to rely on Sprite for her wisdom, humor and exceptional planning. We call her our leader. Sprite can be tough if she needs to be, however she is a thoughtful, compassionate woman who enjoys doing good things for others. No wonder she is so well known and recognized. Freckles, is equally as special. She can talk you into doing anything by just sweet talking you in her "southern girl" way. She is intelligent and a very caring person. I am honored to be traveling in their company.We arrived at the Spring Mountain Shelter at about 16:30. It was full so we tented up the hill. We have entered into a new "bubble" of hikers. You get to meet new people this way, however you lose contact with others and so it goes on the AT. Tenting near us are "Crockatoe-a" and "Rainbow" with a broken foot and her 2 dogs. The others I am not sure?Ever Northward we go, this journey never lacks excitement.
Date: 2008-05-04
To: Jerry Cabin Shelter
Miles today: 15.4
Weather: broken clouds

Heading out this morning, I was treated to a carpet of Trilliums blanketing the forest floor of hardwoods. What beauty. I was also treated with a relatively easy hike, the uphill climbs didn't occur until later in the day.Sprite has been coughing an awful lot. It has progressively gotten worse. Freckles and I are concerned? It appears to be Bronchitus. This isn't the place to have it. We are climbing back up into the 4000 footers. The views are excellant, so they stopped and shared the moment with friends on their cell phones.We reached Blackstack Cliffs late in the day. This terrain has slowed hiking way down, as it was a rocky obstacle course and tough to negotiate. The sun was already low in the sky, we hoped that others we knew who were behind us, wouldn't try this at night.This is where we met "Peach & Fuzz" for the first time. They were slack packing south. Upon reaching Jerry Spring Cabin we found a spot down hill to tent.I couldn't believe there were those who camped right next to the shelter?My point being, In the shelter, how far do most people walk in the night to go pee? Answer, right where they are tenting. I met 3 section hikers camped next to me, doing a 30 mile section. They were 26 yr Army veteran Col.Sam Whitson. He was sure he had met Sprite in the service. She was in fact a retired Sergeant Major. Next was his son Brad, and their friend Doug Hunter a.k.a "Daktari". We had excellant conversations and they shared some contents of their MRE's with me. I had a late dinner, it was already dark. After getting horizontal, the owls were hooting again. I don't think I have mentioned them before, but most every night you hear either Bar or Screech owls. It is a wonderful sound. Also the whipperwill is common. It is disappointing if you don't hear them.Ahhh how life has changed. This is what I call living!
Date: 2008-05-05
To: Hogback Ridge Shelter
Miles today: 15.0
Weather: clear sky

Upon awaking, I realize today is the 5th of May. Cinqo Demayo(sp)? This is the 2 yr. wedding anniversary for my son Tony and his wife Elizabeth. Unfortunately, Elizabeth is in the Army and is serving in Iraq. I can only send my best wishes at the moment. Today was uphill all day. In fact it was uphill both ways!At one point in the day, I found a flat spot and just took a nap, because I can. Haven't had one of those in awhile. I'll have to try that more often.Some how we miscalculated distance today? Must have our minds somewhere else?Anyway, today seemed to go on and on, it was longer than I was expecting. It was kind of late when I arrived at Hogback Ridge Shelter. As usual, chores first before eating. Pitch tent, locate water source and resupply with enough for dinner and the first part of the day tomorrow and hang a bear line.Springloaded caught up with us today. I haven't seen him since we left Hot Springs. He was a welcome sight, it still is tough knowing the Okies and Topshelf won't be joining us. The trail will never be the same.Powder River showed up again, he seems to be in our bubble right now.Cowboying near us tonight is a guy named "D" and a section hiker named 50/50. 50/50 is a doctor and fortunately had some medication he shared with Sprite to help her sleep. Her Bronchitus is getting more severe each day and her coughingis taking it's toll on her. I think most people would have given up by now and got off the trail? She is one determined lady, I hope she overcomes this soon.Despite having a nap today, I am ready for bed. Good night.
Date: 2008-05-07
From: Campsite

To: Erwin Tenn.
Miles today: 11.7

Woke up to new day. It was sunny and there were plenty of great views.The plan was to get to Erwin and take a "Nero" day. The decision to stay at either "Miss Janets" or "Uncle Johnny's" was already made. Miss Janet had previously moved and was not set up with a new hostel.After hiking nearly 12 miles we descended into Erwin. As luck would have it Uncle Johnnys was just down the street. I had seen the picture many times before, but it was still a little different than I imagined? We checked in and decided to tent in the yard.After showers, it was time for food & resupply. Uncle Johnny keeps some bicycles around that you can borrow. After riding these I am convinced they are more for sadistic pleasure. The three of us each picked one out. I had to straighten the handlebars, twist the seat and tighten the axle nuts.I will always regret not getting pictures of this, but riding the 3 miles into town was the most hilarious comedy I have experienced in a while. Every so often Sprite's handlebars would be pointed in a different direction than where she was going. We would stop and I would have to straighten them out which included using my foot. We had no tools. This went on several times there and back. Freckles bike had a low seat, When she would peddle it looked like her knees were reaching her chin. I'm laughing just thinking about it. It was a pleasant ride, we eventually caught a bike path that made for a leisure ride. We ate at Sonic. Powder River always raved about Sonic, however I just didn't get what the fuss was about? Afterward, we found the laundromat and did our laundry. I was able to make some calls.Erwin was actually bigger than I thought? We resupplied to get us to Damascus. However, After returning we learned of a slack-pack shuttle? This was a favorable option. No rush to pack up, put in some good miles and be back for some good downtime. Count me in.Uncle Johnnys was a pretty good set up. You run a tab on stay, services, food items and shuttles, settle up when you leave. There were plenty of showers and clean rest rooms. The property was fenced in from the road so as long as the noise was respectable, then it was a private affair.I learned there was some bad press floating around about Johnnys that someone had wrote about last year?I can only tell you, that my stay was an enjoyable one. Johnny is a good ol' boy and runs his place well. They will do whatever is necessary to accomodate you, as reasonably as possible. They get some unusual requests as you can imagine?Having a good time is what it is all about. There are undoubtedly some individulas that may take advantage of this and cause problems that affect others. Having said that, running a successful hostel takes an unusual amount of patience. Thanks for the great time Johnny!
Date: 2008-05-08
From: Uncle Johnnys

To: Slack Pack Nero at Uncle Johnnys
Miles today: 19.1

The covered deck in front of Johnnys was already getting crowded, Hikers all waiting to catch a shuttle, purchase some early morning items or to check out. I briefly ran into El Gixon again, He was checking in. Unfortunately, I wouln't be able to spend any time with him as I was about to catch a shuttle to slack pack for the day.Moments later several of us loaded up. CB was driving one vehicle and Johnny the other. First stop was Hardees, Starting the day with a couple of sausage bisquits is always a good start.Next stop was Iron Mountain. Starting more or less at the top, means you walk more or less to the bottom in theory of course. Heading south for the first time, we carried emptied packs with just water, rain gear and a days rations. The 19.1 miles was my personal best in distance so far. On the way back, it started to rain pretty heavy. It had been a long day, but a good hike.We made it back in time to catch the dinner shuttle into town. Before leaving, waiting there to our surprise was Rawhide & Maverick.Yeehaw! What a surprise? Several of us went into town and had Mexican at the Azteca restaurant. I sat next to Johnny, his wife Charolette and their daughter . I enjoyed their stories.It had really been pouring the rest of the evening. Sprite was able to arrange a deal where we could now stay in the trailer they had on the premises.This way we could socialize out of the dark and the rain.Maverick & Rawhide made it official, announcing they were off the trail for good, their hike was over. They did plan to do small selected sections and meet us when they could at various trail towns. It was admirable that despite their own setbacks, they still wanted to be connected. These guys are one of a kind,Their friendship is legendary.Atleast now, we had a good setting in which to spend these last few hours together. A few beers, snacks and friends together again, at least for awhile. So goes the bitter-sweet good life on the AT.
Date: 2008-05-12
To: Kincora Hostel.
Miles today: 11.8

After having one more morning of a delicious breakfast, we were shuttled back to the trailhead. Most everyone else decided to stay and take a "Zero" since the weather had been so bad. The 3 of us continued on and survived the day. We came down to a road in which we had to cross. To the left a half mile or so, was the Kincora Hostel run by the legendary Bob Peoples and his wife Mary.This is one of those places that are an AT Icon landmark. It would be a shame to be so close, and not stay because of lower miles or having just stayed in a hostel.So, down the road we go. It wasn't the paradise we enjoyed at the Mountain Harbour, however it had everything you needed. There were plenty of beds, the showers and bathrooms were outside. There was a kitchen and a BBQ on the porch. It was a welcome retreat none the less, and I enjoyed with some others, sharing in conversation with Bob. What a super guy! No wonder I have heard so much about him.His wife Mary, drove some of us into town for a quick resupply. The roads were winding, hair pin curves that even going slow presented a challenge, especially with on coming traffic. The wind had blown trees & limbs down most of the way. In fact, someone had used a chain saw to make this road passable.I asked Mary, why she and Bob do what they do? When do they ever get to rest?Donations to stay are only $4.00 (hopefully they receive more)so it's not for the money. In fact I'm sure it costs far more to keep this going than what they ever would receive?Basically, and I remember her genuine reply, was that she does it as a way of serving the Lord by serving others. They do what they can with what they have, helping those who are in need during their travels.Wow, how often do you run into that? Bob & Mary are one of many examples I have personally experienced while being out here, where strangers treat you like a close friend and provide like you were family. If there is a lesson to keep and take back, then this is surely one of them.This was a good choice to stay here for many reasons. I would have regretted not doing so. This afterall, is part of my AT adventure, I want it to be as full and memorable as possible. Today just added to it.To top it off, I am kicking back in a rocking chair eating several pieces of fried chicken I brought back from the store deli.And yeah, it is, finger lickin good!**(Sadly, I would learn that a few short weeks later, Bob's wife Mary had passed away. Her kindness I will always remember. My thoughts and prayers went out to Bob and their family.)
Date: 2008-05-13
To: Vandeventer Shelter.
Miles today: 17.5
Weather: clear sky

Packed up, ate and got moving first thing. The plan was to do 17.5 miles today.An early start gives you plenty of time to enjoy what ever you want while still knocking out some miles.It is really hot today. By the time I reached Watauga Lake, I stopped and had a break. I walked into the lake up to my thighs. The cold water felt good and numbed my knees a bit. After walking around the lake, the trail went back up. It was up the rest of the day. I was looking down on the water, it was a long way down now. For the first time, I have ran out of water. There were no springs or other sources at this elevation. I walked about 2.5 hours, dry & parched. I am usually good about avoiding this situation, however it was hot, I even drank less than normal but finally ran out before I could refill.Eventually, I found a very small spring that had a shallow bowl sized puddle.I drank a litre there and filled back up.Upon arriving to the shelter it was full. I set up in a little spot behind the shelter and beside a large rock windbreak. Peach & Fuzz showed up a little later. Staying here as well is a group of friends from North Carolina, doing a section hike together. They are Poca, E.D. (Easily Distracted 06 thru-hiker) and "Boy Wonder". I wouldn't call him boy, so I changed his name to "Flash". He liked it and he accepted his new Trail name.We all got along really well, they were a blast and we laughed most of the evening. We all sat up on these big rocks behind the shelter and watched the sunset. As it got darker, the lights of Hampton down below, lit up the valley like stars on the ground.Meeting this fun group could be considered no less than Trail Magic". I hope we can hike together for awhile? Another couple whom stayed here tonight was "Rocky & Blisters"
Date: 2008-05-14
To: Double Springs Shelter
Miles today: 14.4
Weather: clear sky

Today was rainy, cool & overcast. I was in & out of my rain gear through out the day. The trail is always a pleasure to be on, no matter the weather. It is good to be out here, mud, root, rock, rain and knee pain is all part of it.I arrived at the Shelter in early afternoon. Others were here taking a break but moved on. I claimed my spot in the shelter as more rain was coming for sure and the tenting area was a little bleak. I met a section hiker from Tampa named "STP". It stood for "Seeking The Prize".He was hiking part of his 10 year plan to section all of the AT. Good luck!Flash, Poca, E.D., Sprite & Freckles filled the shelter. Tetrus slept on the picnic table and "Spirit" pitched his tent. I was able to wash all the funk off again as there was a creek nearby. Ever since my first night on the trail back at the Hawk Mountain Shelter, when the mouse ran across my face, I was inspired that night and have been looking for a furry toy mouse ever since.Maybe I'm the only one that found this funny? But sometimes when I sat in a shelter, at dusk I would bring up the subject of shelter mice (planting the seed) when everyone was in their bags.Moments later, I would abruptly sit up twist, jerk and slap down on my bag repeatedly like I was trying to kill a mouse. Next, with my legs together in my bag, I would do a sudden leg raise, giving the impression I was slinging the mouse into the air. Since it was near dark and visibility was low, I would underhand a sock at the same time. Once it landed on someone, they would freak out! It was histarical.It worked every time.Tonight was no different. When I did this, I thought Poca and E.D were going to come unglued! Sorry ladies, I just couldn't help myself. I was able to go right to sleep, I think their adrenaline kept them up for awhile? I wonder if they'll kill me in my sleep? The mood was especially good tonight, because tomorrow we would finally reach Damascus and experience the legendary "Trail Days" It is hard to believe, not long a go it seemed so far away. And now, tomorrow we will be there. Nearly 500 miles! Hello Trail Days!
Date: 2008-05-18
From: Virginia Creeper Trail-Laurel Creek

To: Sunday Slak-Pak
Miles today: 13.5

Although, we have had too much fun and enjoyed the Trail Days experience, it is time to get hiking again. Not ready to leave just yet, but can't just sit around either, a slak-pak is the solution.My friend Chipmonk didn't like the term slak-pak. It cast a negative spin on hiking. When he slak-paks he walks the same trail, doing the same miles encountering the same dangers-he is no slacker. For that matter, some slak-paks weigh the same or more than what some ultra-lighters are carrying. Therefore, for him , I'll refer to it as "Backpacking Light".Alot was happening this morning, There were goodbyes to be said, hiking plans to be made and activities upon our return? First thing was to say goodbye to E.D., Giggles, Flash, Kelly & her husband Tony. Hugs & pictures next, We didn't want to say goodbye, however life happens and doesn't wait for any reason or anyone. The coolers had to be strapped to the trunk as their small car was packed to the brim with 5 adults and their gear. I watched them drive off.Only Sprite, Freckles and I are slak...backpacking light today. Topshelf drove us to a point under the Creeper trail trustle. So we began our 13.5 mile trek back to Damascus. Today was mild to cool, the last couple of hours changed for the worst. The wind was howling and the rain just poured. Rainsuits were required. I usually just go without, unless warmth becomes an issue. About the last mile, we ran into Poweder River and his G-friend Courtney. We tried to talk amid the rain but it was better to just keep moving.Upon reaching the road at around 6:00 p.m., We were wondering where we would be meeting Topshelf? Just like that he drove up. How it that for timing?The best was yet to come, Topshelf who doesn't do anything halfass, had rented a house for all of us to stay in, just outside of town. We made a quick trip to grab our gear from tent city. Next, we made a quick trip to the grocery store, then back to our new "digs" for the night.What luxury, couch, recliners, full kitchen, comfortable beds. Am I still on the AT? Topshelf made gourmet meatloaf, Freckles made Garlic potatoes, Salad and all served with wine. The Okies had Bud Light.The evening went late, especially for hiker standards. The only thing missing was Springloaded. He and his Mom had left earlier. Springloaded was returning to Sams Gap where he first left the trail. With any luck he will catch up to us within a month?This has been an evening of fine dining with fine friends. Tonight was special and we all knew it. Tomorrow we would split up again, but tonight was ours to enjoy together. ************************To be continued************************************
Date: 2008-05-19
From: Virginia Creeper Trail - Laurel Creek

To: Whitetop Mountain
Miles today: 8.0

Waking up today, officially puts all Trail Days activity in the past tense.I have come, I have experienced, I have moved on.What a memorable weekend it has been. Already, I feel I have forgotten more than I can remember?Nobody was in a hurry to get this day going, except for making breakfast.Freckles made homemade bisquits, pattie sausage, egss & potatoes. For desert was Apple Pie. Actually, the pie was for celebrating Mavericks birthday today. Happy Birthday my friend! With what remaining food there was, we happened to look out the window and saw a guy carrying a backpack. Although not on the AT, he was still backpacking, close enough! Today was his lucky day, he certainly enjoyed the feast.Loading up Topshelf's SUV, I couldn't help but think how it would be nice for all of us to come back in the next year or two for Trail Days and stay here?We'll just have to see.Once again, we said Adios, to our friends Rawhide & Maverick. Topshelf drove Sprite, Freckles & I back to the Virginia Creeper Trail at Laurel Creek.Once again, we said adios to our friend Topshelf. It is back down to the 3 of us. So back on the AT we go.We originally planned to do 14 miles today, but ended up doing only 8.Sprite was rather sick from the medication she was taking for her bronchitus.Combined with a late start it made no sense for her to push on.We stopped by the spring on WhiteTop Mountain. The hike today was enjoyable with scenic views almost the entire day. We pitched our tents facing a great view of the surrounding mountains. It felt good to be back on the trail.It has a feel of being home, Does that make sense? The beautiful day, later turned to a night of heavy rain & lightning.We were not directly on the ridge, however we were in an open area at the edge of a sloping cliff. I was glad to have a dry tent.