morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2007-03-16
From: Chatanooga

To: Grandprix Motel, Gatlinburg, TN
Miles today: 2.0
Weather: light rain

On Wednessday Margaret and I drove to Sewanee, TN and spent the evening with Margaret's sister, Susie, and her friends. In the morning the three of us set out for Gatlinburg with ominous clouds on the horizon behind us. Since we left central time and entered eastern, and also because we spent 2 hours driving around looking for the trailhead, I didn't get to the trail until 4 PM. I had 9 uphill miles to go - an estimated 5 hours of hiking. No matter, hiking in the dark along a trail I'd already walked would be no big deal. I said a very painful goodbye to Margaret, and even as she drove away I thought of running after them. I had been having second thoughts all day. I resisted the urge, and saddled up. I spent the first ten minutes of walking fighting my emotional demons. I could run down to the ranger station 2 miles away and call them and they could come get me. Eventually, I conquered my demons, or at least put them away temporarily, and started to get into the swing of hiking again. And just then, when I finally actually wanted to continue, my leg started to hurt worse than ever. I stopped, but I didn't want to turn around. I kept walking, but it hurt, so I turned around. I walked back and forth over the same 100 yards about 5 times in my indecision. Finally, I turned around one last time and headed downhill, but even as I reached the parking lot I regretted my decision somewhat. My leg reminded me that I had no choice.I began to trot down to the ranger station. Margaret and Susie would be hours away by now. A couple stopped and picked me up. At the ranger station there was no phone, so we went into Gatlinburg. By the time I called Margaret, they were in Chatanooga, 3 hours away. I felt terrible even asking them to turn around. Naturally, they decided it was too far and just kept going. I checked in to the Grand Prix motel for the night to get out of the rain.
Date: 2007-03-17
From: Grandprix Motel, Gatlinburg, TN

To: Standing Bear Farm, Hartford, TN
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

Yesterday I slept in as my clock had not been adjusted for DST. I awoke, quickly packed up, and checked out. I had a large breakfast at the Pancake house, then call Curtis at Standing Bear Farm. I split the $40 shuttle with a section hiker and came up here. Last night myself and three thru hikers were here. I built a fire in the wood stove but we didn't have enough wood to keep it going for long. This morning the other three left, leaving me. It was really freaking cold. I had breakfast and got back in my sleeping bag and piled 3 blankets on top. Now that the sun is shining I've poked my head out again.I've been lost in thought for the past few days, and I've made a few important realizations. I may have said the first two before, but only now do I truely believe them: 1) I might not make it to Maine; 2) It doesn't matter; 3) It doesn't mean I have to go home...That last realization was a big one. Before the only options I considered were "Maine or Bust!", but I now realize that even though I probably won't make it to Maine with the time and money I have remaining, I can stay out here for a few months and keeping looking for whatever it was I am looking for. More on that subject later. Anyways, I'm at Standing Bear Farm letting my leg heal at least until Monday. Tomorrow I'll go for a little day hike to test out my leg. On Monday I'll get my mail drop and try to hike (slowly) to Hot Springs. It's 30 miles and I'll give myself 4-5 days to do it. If the hike goes well, I may continue hiking North to Erwin. If not, I'll yellow blaze my way up the trail until I can hike more, and by combination of yellow blazing and hiking just get myself whereever adventure takes me, indirectly headed North towards Home. When I run out of time or money or get sick of it, I'll just go home. Thats the tentative plain, but really I'm just going to make each decision as I come to it.
Date: 2007-04-02
From: Ms. Janet's House, Erwin, TN

To: Ms. Janet's House, Erwin, TN
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: scattered clouds

It feels strange, finally accepting the fact that I have thrown in the towel for this year. My week at Miss Janet's house last week was amazing, and on Thursday one of the hikers -- Otto -- was going to Boone. Since I have a friend at Lee's McRae, near there, I decided to hitch a ride and spend the weekend with Wentworth. I had a pretty good time and was distracted enough to keep my mind off of the fact that I wasn't going to Maine. I am so glad now that I pushed on through those hard times in January. Coming off trail due to an injury is bad enough. I now understand what people have been telling me, that coming off trail due to lack of determination is something I would never be able to forgive myself for.After three days of fun in Boone/Banner Elk, I got a ride with some of Wentworth's friends back here to Erwin. I'll be staying here and helping out Miss Janet for another week, and on Saturday I'll be flying home. I chose to go home for several reasons. First and foremost, I need medical attention. I picked this Saturday so that I could be home for Easter and see some of my relatives, as I've essentially been absent for the past two years. Finally, and this one is mostly just a bonus, I'll be going to an open house at UVM, something I couldn't do last year, and as icing on the cake, Margaret will be going to an open house at Middlebury, 30 minutes down the road, so we'll get to see each other.I'm going to treat this trip similar to when I went home in February -- I'm visiting, not returning. I'm going to regroup and then head out on another adventure. What that adventure is, I don't know.Currently I am reading the Tao of Pooh, and I think that for the next few months I shall embrace the Taoist principle of going with the flow.
Date: 2007-01-04
To: Preparation
Miles today: 0.0

After several months of planning and reading trail journals, it seems time to start my own journal. I've been planning this hike for a year now, however, I've had the desire to hike the Appalachian Trail for the past 12 years.    My first experience of the trail was back in 1990, when I took my kids (two), and my wife (one), to Luray Caverns, VA. We stopped later at a restaurant called Panorama, off Route 211, just beside the Appalachian Trail. After lunch we walked the trail to the top of the mountain, to what is called "Mary's Rock". What a view! At that point, I thought it would be nice to walk more of the trail someday.    A few years later, my wife stated that she would like to go backpacking on our next vacation, instead of the usual beach trip. I was caught off-guard; I didn't expect that (but that's been my married life for 35 years). I gave it a couple of weeks (serious thinking here), then told her I'd start making plans and purchasing equipment. In my travels, I was able to get all the equipment, maps, clothing, etc. at several different outfitters.    In July 1995 we did a section hike for 5 days, and from that point on, I've had the bug to pursue a thru hike. I've done several 2 and 3 day hikes around home (Nicholas County, WV) since then, but nothing that's going to compare to this.    From October 13-15 I went to the 25th Gathering for the Appalachian Long Distance Hiker's Association (ALDHA), which was held this year at Athens, WV. They had several workshops for Dreamers, and for others. It was a great experience. The interaction and comradery within this group of people was just a delight. All my questions were answered.    Then from December 15-18 I attended the Appalachian Trail Institute at Banner ELk, NC, conducted by Dr. Warren Doyle. Dr. Doyle's classes provided almost everything I need to know to finish the 2,175 miles. Although his minimalist approach to walking the trail is not something that's entirely in my comfort zone, the classes were well worth my time.    I'm looking forward to meeting and hking with the class of 2007. The journey is one we will cherish forever. I will join some of the greatest, free-thinking, contented, loving, and giving people I have ever met.
Date: 2007-01-06
To: Philosophy
Miles today: 0.0

They say that each spring approximately 2000 thru-hikers will start at Springer Mountain, creating crowded conditions. I guess, if I'm lucky, I'll be one of them, but only 200-300 will finish. I plan to start my thru hike on March 19. I'm leaving Beckley, WV by way of Greyhound bus on the 17th, and arriving at Gainesville, GA that evening. Hopefully, I will make connections with Josh or Leigh, who run the Hiker Hostel at Dahlonega. I have plans on meeting with Tom Tanner at the Hiker Hostel on the 18th; (Tom is from Kansas, but looks to relocate to Mississippi, or Texas)...the man is not steady (ha-ha)! We met at the Gathering and then again at the Appalachian Trail Institute. We plan on starting out together, at least for the first few weeks. I'm hoping he can keep me from starting out going too far, too fast, too high, and too soon. Tom and I both walk about the same pace even though he's 6 ft. 5 in. tall.    Everyone does their own thing. What works for some, doesn't work for others. It's a personal thing. As they say, "hike your own hike". I'm sure at my age (60), or any age, this will be by far the greatest physical and mental challenge I will ever endure. There will be good days and bad days, challenges, excitement, comedy, discomfort, and alot of pain. But I think I will love the adventure, the challenges, the outdoors, and best of all, the freedom. I ask myself, "Can I walk for week after week, and month after month?"I hope I can. My goal is to walk from town to town, each one a victory.
Date: 2007-01-10
To: Countdown
Miles today: 0.0

Well it's about 66 days till I leave WV for Springer Mountain and the A.T. There are so many emotions right now - excitement, anticipation, and nervousness. What will life hold for me out on the trail? By this point, my desire to do the A.T. has grown to almost an obsession; it's all I think about. I have no set philosophy on this hike; it's very simple. I want to start at Springer, and end on Katahdin. Reaching Katahdin is not a requirement for a successful hike or journey. I want to pass every white blaze, and carry my pack most of the way. I'm not sure about slack-packing. I haven't fully decided yet.    I believe, as in every day life, one of the most important things to remember on the trail is to have a sense of humor and a good attitude. You must be able to laugh at yourself, and the situations surrounding you. Make the best of it, and look only at the positive side. A positive attitude will get you to where you want to be.    This planning of a thru hike is a BIG undertaking and requires the support of lots of good people to cheer me on. First, I would like to thank Tiffany (daughter-in-law) for helping me with selecting a camera. She knows a bit more about them than I do. She will also help with posting my pictures and journals. After I get on the trail, my son Jason, for helping me get my trail journals online, my MP3 player working, and who will also join me at different points on the trail for a week and weekend hikes. My daughter Brandy, who is a naturopathic physician, for helping me with my diet, medication, and physical well-being. Also, she may join me at some point on the trail. My brother Terry, who by the way, asks WHY, when there's a plane that goes from Georgia to Maine. (He just doesn't get it). He will pick me up at different locations in Virginia if I need a break from the trail. Last but not least, my wife Vickie of 35 years, who supports me (and wonders why). She will be my main support person. I will mail handwritten journals to my wife who will transcribe (after much editing) them into this online journal. Also, I will mail digital camera memory cards. Jason and Tiffany will post the photos here.
Date: 2007-02-11
To: Plantar Fasciitis
Miles today: 0.0

It's Sunday, February 11, five weeks until my start date. In March of 2006, I developed plantar fasciitis probably caused by playing basketball on a concrete floor of a church "gym". I was diagnosed by a physician, was treated by a physical therapist, had orthotics made. The problem was supposed to be corrected by this. I have been doing stretching exercises, ice treatments at night. I have not been exercising, running, or hiking to get in shape for the trail due to continued heel pain. Eleven months into treatment and I am still having lots of pain in my heel. I am asking for anyone who has dealt with this problem to sign my guest book with advice. I am very concerned that I will not be better when it is time for my departure. I have ordered night splints, but they have not arrived yet. I am considering a cortisone injection ( I hate to do this), but I am truly seeking any suggestions to help me solve this problem.
Date: 2007-03-12
To: Final Thoughts
Miles today: 0.0

I can't believe that there's only 7 days left until I start my hike. It seems like the last few months have gone by in a hurry. I've been doing pre-hikes almost daily ( 4 to 6 hrs or 10 to 12 miles ) to try and get my foot into hiking shape, and so far it seems to be working. I still have alot of heel pain, but I think I can endure. I can't say that I'm completely prepared for what lays ahead but I feel good about my chances.My plan of Transportation to Georgia has changed. I had planned on taking the Greyhound Bus on the 17th to Georgia, but my brother (Terry) who lives in Roanoke Va, let me know in no uncertain terms that he wanted to take me to Georgia. So I guess he will join me on Friday for a small get together with family and friends, then off we go on Saturday morning to Georgia.For those of you who are unfamiliar with the Appalachian Trail ( AT ) it is a continuous footpath from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Katahdin, Maine. 2,175 miles through 14 states. It is America's oldest national scenic Trail and is maintained by thousands of volunteers who dedicate countless hours to this endless task. I have been wrestling with what to do about fooddrops and resupplying. I think I'm going to plan only 6 mail drops and purchase the rest of food near trail towns. As you see, Ive been doing lots of planning lately now it's time to forget the plans and just hike.Its going to be an emotional time, leaving my wife and family, but it's not forever only 5 or 6 months, or I could be back in a few weeks depending on how things go. I would like to thank everyone who signed my guest book and helped me with there advice and wisdom.
Date: 2007-03-17
From: Good Bye

To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

Well, the adventure begins. Today Ed and his brother left for Springer Mountain, Georgia. There were 4 inches of snow on the ground and a stiff breeze blowing. That's not the kind of weather I wish for Ed on his journey. By the way, I am Ed's wife and will be transcribing his adventures for him.I have been asked by many people how I feel about him going on this challenging adventure. I will miss him, but how do you ask someone to give up on a dream without even trying. How do you tell someone that has just retired to also retire on experiencing new adventures and expanding their experiences. You don't. You give them all of the support you can and wish them all of the luck in the world. I am proud that I live with a person so full of life. Ed is probably the most determined person that I have ever met. I have looked into the eyes of that determination for 35 years. I have benefited from that positive outlook on life, especially when experiencing some of the bad times that everyone has if you life long enough. Now, I look forward to listening to his trail adventures and trying to capture them in his journal.Ed's last night at home was a joyful one shared with friends and family. We cooked up a feast and laughed and recounted past times. He romped with grandchildren, great nieces, and nephews. He checked his pack at least a dozen more times and walked through the house several miles to see if he was forgetting anything. He has prepared for this event for many months. Remember the movie, " The Magnificient Obsession"? That describes his months since retirement. Planning for, reading about, talking about, and dreaming about the AT. I can say that he is ready. I wish him and all other kindred spirits walking the trail at the same time all the good luck, good weather, good friends, good food, and good hiking that is out there. My thought will be with you.
Date: 2007-03-18
To: A.T. Hiker Hostel
Miles today: 0.0

This is the first day of Ed's A.T. adventure. He and his brother left our home and traveled to Dahlonega where they stayed in a motel Saturday night. On the way there, they stopped off at Neels Gap at Walasi-Yi Center for a final equipment check. Ed changed out his tent in order to save himself 1.6 lbs. of weight. He made a few other purchases including a titanium pan. He also had a lighter wallet. On Sunday he traveled to Amicalola Falls State Park to register. He is number 249. From there he and his brother went to the A.T. Hiker Hostel. He would like to highly recommend Josh and Leah for the way they run their hostel. His brother left at 11:00 AM to return to Roanoke. Ed spent the day at the hiker's hostel where he took a physical given by Dr. John Davis. He met Dr. Davis at the Gathering in Athens. He is studying the physical effects on hiker's bodies. He gathered data on many hikers. He will collect more data on this group in Virginia and again in Katahdin, Maine. He enjoyed the company of 15 other hikers at the hostel: Bearbag, Porkchop, Trudger, Moses, Griz, and Paul and Jamie Renaud to name a few. Paul and Jamie plan on opening a hostel in Maine. The hikers had a Mexican dinner. Ed was in bed by 10:30 PM. I am sure he dreamed about walking the trail.
Date: 2007-03-19
From: A.T. Hiker Hostel

To: Sassafras Mountain
Miles today: 11.0

I could hear the excitement in Ed's voice as he recounted his first day of hiking on the A.T. He is traveling with Tom Tanner (Evil Eye) and 19 year old Luke Kim, now known as YouNdum. Ed and Tom,60 and 50 years old, educated Luke. I am sure he will never be the same. The hikers were up at 6:00 AM, ate a hearty breakfast of pancakes, eggs, and juice, and left the comfort of the hostel at 8:00 AM. They were at the starting point of Springer but backtracked 0.9 miles to sign a register. They actually started hiking at 9:30. Finally, the first foot steps on this wonderful, historic trail. The temperature was about 40 degrees and climbed to 60 during the day. The trail was easy with a few ups and downs. Ed reported that he felt great physically. Evil Eye did his job and slowed Ed down. Ed did his job and encouraged them to go farther. One last note, Ed's foot felt great. Thanks to all who gave him advise and treatment. He used it all and benefited from it.
Date: 2007-03-20
From: Sassafras Mountain

To: Burnett Field Mountain
Miles today: 14.0

Last night Ed and Evil Eye were in their tents by 9:30. They were up at 7:00 and hiking by 8:00. Ed reported that he slept well until 3:30AM. Then the ground felt pretty hard, so he slept little more until he got up. They stopped at Justus Creek for water and again at Gooch Mountain Shelter to sign a register. Their 19 year old companion needed to travel faster than the group, so he left them at this point. Ed told him that he would entertain all that he met especially if he keeps his good attitude. They had enjoyed his companionship for two days. But everyone on the trail knows that hikers walk their own walk. Luke will always be a part of their journey.Ed reports that he is waiting on Evil Eye sometimes. Evil Eye told him to go ahead if he wanted. Ed told Evil Eye that he needed him to keep him from burning himself out by traveling too fast. So far they make a good team.At Ramrock Mountain, elevation 3,260 feet, they saw a beautiful view. They could see mountain ridges covered with yellow buttercups. They looked out of place in all of the ruggedness. It just confirms, God has a good sense of humor. The trail has been surprising so far. It has not been as hard to climb as expected and they are not experiencing crowded conditions. They saw 25-30 people, many of them day hikers. The weather was wonderful(50-70 degrees). They hiked in shorts and T-shirts. Ed has 2 blisters on his left foot on his second and third toes. He has them wrapped well. Thankfully, he has no heel pain at this time. He is drinking lots of water. They aim to reach Neel's Gap tomorrow and perhaps take a shower and wash clothes. Tonight, they are tired. Bed at 8:00 sounds about right.
Date: 2007-03-21
From: Burnett Field Mountain

To: Baggs Creek Gap
Miles today: 9.7

Today, Ed and Evil Eye got up at 6:30 and started on the trail at 7:30AM. The trail condition was excellent due to the many volunteers that maintain it. Ed cannot praise them enough for their tireless work. Without them, there would be no trail.They caught up with some interesting folks. One of them was Simarron. He is 84 years old. Ed met him at the hostel. He had hiked 72 miles of the AT last year just 3 days after receiving chemo. The trail seems to bring out the best in people. We wish him the best hiking of all times. They hiked up to Blood Mountain together. The hike was easy going up but difficult goiong down. The trail was mainly rock steps and was hard on the knees. At Neel's Gap, Ed and Evil Eye washed their clothes and took a shower. They met up with YouNDum there. Ed and Evil Eye left Neel's Gap at 3:00Pm and hiked to Baggs Creek Gap. They set up camp at 5:00PM. YouNDum passed through their camp at 6:00. He plans on doing a little night hiking. They also talked to a hiker named Chill Out. The weather was 50-70 degrees. Ed feels strong. Still no heel pain. Great day of hiking.