morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2010-10-15
From: Cow Camp Gap Shelter, VA

To: Punchbowl Shelter, VA
Miles today: 15.1
Weather: light rain

First ones out of the shelter this morning. Sassafras and Daddy Long Legs froze last night, so they weren't exactly moving fast. We hiked downhill to the first stop at Brown Mountain Creek Shelter for lunch.After leaving, we ran into Ruth "Hot Flash" and Hal "Flash", who were coming to look for us. Trail Magic!! They took us back to their car for sandwiches, apple pie, cookies and juice. What a treat! She even made us sandwiches to go and gave us a loaf of bread and more pie. Truly an AT couple-what great folks!!Made it into Punchbowl Shelter for find some SOBOs and sectioners. Daddy Long Legs and Sassafras showed up after dark. Well, OZ (AT '87) brought some beer to the shelter and we were obliged to sit up, swap stories and have a shelter party. OZ was a trip, an old guy who's done it all. Good night on a cold one!
Date: 2010-10-16
From: Punchbowl Shelter

To: Buena Vista, VA
Miles today: 20.4

One Pace's parents drove up to the trailhead at the James River footbridge to meet the guys and take them into town for the night. We met Black Eagle for the first time along with Sassafras and Daddy Long Legs, section hikers, who had been at the shelter Friday night.After planning this trip, it worked out that we could deliver Guillermo's new boots and a birthday box. After everyone made it to the parking lot, Guillermo tried on his boots and an eyelet broke right before all of our eyes. Crazy! So the boots went back into the box and Guillermo got out his superglue and worked on his hiking shoes in order to continue hiking. One Pace's dad joined the group and hiked to Petite's Gap where they found SOBO trail magic. Thanks LOBO!Mom did the pick up run and was happy to see the headlamps coming down the trail in the dark. After finishing late, all went into Buena Vista and enjoyed Italian food, showers, computer time, college football, and a night indoors.
Date: 2010-10-17
From: Buena Vista, VA

To: Cornelius Creek Shelter, VA
Miles today: 10.0
Weather: clear sky

Tempting everyone with a Hardee's breakfast worked to get the three hikers up and out. Mom headed to the laundromat while the packs were reworked and food needs determined. A trip to Food Lion, more repacking in the parking lot and three guys and three packs were crammed into the Rav 4 for the drive back to Petite's Gap. An absolutely beautiful day for hiking but no one was in a big hurry to hit the trail. While in the parking lot stretching and adjusting packs and poles, Guillermo's hiking pole shaft split! Wow, couldn't believe his luck. Quick discussions ensued about trading out his poles for a set of our poles but the decision was made to hike into Daleville to an outfitter and hopefully a replacement. Guillermo's sister is now not only trying to replace his defective boots but to get warranty coverage on the poles and have them in Daleville in two days. Hope to report that she has great success!One Pace tented to avoid the already active mice in the shelter.
Date: 2010-10-18
From: Cornelius Creek Shelter, VA

To: Bobblet's Gap Shelter, VA
Miles today: 18.4
Weather: overcast clouds

Spectacular day! A little cloudy at times but warm and enjoyable. We took our first break at Boyant Ridge Shelter and wished we could have stayed there because it was a three story super shelter; but, oh well. After that break I busted out 4.5 miles an hour over Fork Mountain and up part of Cove Mountain. Somehow we passed Twisted Hair and Cheesmeyer, two SOBO section hikers. Our second stop was at Cove Mountain Shelter and then a nice 6.5 mile walk home to Bobblet's Gap Shleter. We made a fire and enjoyed the evening. Now on to the Howard Johnson's Motel in Daleville.
Date: 2010-10-19
From: Bobblet's Gap Shelter, VA

To: Daleville, VA
Miles today: 18.5
Weather: clear sky

In Daleville so Guillermo can get his replacement boots at Outdoor Trails and also have his hiking pole repaired. Staying at the Howard Johnson after buffet dinner at Pizza Hut. After breakfast, resupplying at Kroger and back to the trail.
Date: 2010-10-20
From: Daleville, VA

To: Lamberts Meadow Campsite, VA
Miles today: 9.1
Weather: light rain

Visited Outdoor Trails to get Guillermo's boots which worked out fine. Big ole size 15 boots! He also received a new set of Leki poles so kudos to this outfitter in Daleville and the help they gave to this thru hiker!
Date: 2010-10-21
From: Lamberts Meadow Campsite, VA

To: Catawba, VA
Miles today: 10.7

Second short mileage day! Beautiful weather made the hike to McAfee Knob really rewarding. Views were spectacular from Tinker Cliffs and the Knob! Hitched from VA 311 to Catawba and The Homeplace Restaurant. Black Eagle had been talking about it for days and luckily we arrived on a Thursday when the restaurant is open. It is Guillermo's birthday so dinner at Homeplace was a good celebration. Fried chicken, barbeque and AYCE=no more hiking today. Homeplace allows camping in their backyard so we will sleep here tonight before hitting the trail tomorrow. It was a great day for a birthday with great weather, views, and food! See Photos for more of the day!!
Date: 2010-10-26
From: Pearisburg, VA

To: Woods Hole Hostel, VA
Miles today: 10.8
Weather: mist

Picked up bounce boxes at the Post Office, breakfast at Hardees and on to Woods Hole Hostel for the night. Guillermo received his new ULA pack in the mail. One Pace really enjoyed the chocolate labs at the hostel, reminding him of his dog, Charlie, at home.
Date: 2010-10-31
From: Crawfish Valley Campsite, VA

To: Chatfield Shelter, VA
Miles today: 10.8
Weather: clear sky

One Pace's parents drove from Knoxville to Wytheville today to take One Pace and Guillermo out to eat and resupply after meeting them at the trail on Hwy. 11 near Atkins, VA. Both guys were hungry and ready to dine at Cracker Barrel and ordered the Sunday fried chicken special. After eating we went to Food Lion and Walmart where both managed to get what they needed for four days without too many extra items. We headed back to 1-81 and the Exxon parking lot to pack in the new supplies. One Pace also switched out his hammock tent for a Golite Shangri-La. They are very excited to be so close to the Tennessee state line. We are looking forward to more chances to feed them and help with resupply now that they are in our "neck of the woods".
Date: 2010-11-01
From: Chatfield Shelter, VA

To: Trimpi Shelter, VA
Miles today: 17.7
Weather: clear sky

Woke up at Chatfield Shelter and going to bed tonight at Trimpi after 17 decent miles. It was nice to see my parents yesterday on Halloween. No, I didn't have a costume to wear, but they did bring me winter gear and a new tent, a GoLite Shangri-La 3. I needed to swap out my hammock tent because of the cold weather. I don't like the extra weight but having warmth and shelter is very important now.Guillermo and I are enjoying an inferno (just took a video) in the shelter's indoor fireplace. It's very warm on a cold night in the upper 30's. We are back to just us. We lost Black Eagle at Wood's Hole after he decided to out back his miles. Probably not going to see anymore SOBOS.
Date: 2010-11-02
From: Trimpi Shelter, VA

To: Wise Shelter, VA
Miles today: 20.0
Weather: few clouds

We made twenty solid miles today from Trimpi to Wish Shleter. Good trails and good weather. Now we are in the Grayson Highlands and the temperature is letting me know it. It's cold tonight, but it makes the fire that much more worth having. Listening to bluegrass on Guillermo's radio makes AT life even better. Still loving the trail and I petted a pony today!
Date: 2010-11-03
From: Wise Shelter, VA

To: Lost Mountain Shelter, VA
Miles today: 17.3
Weather: scattered clouds

Good walking today. We woke up expecting rain but had none all day. Really enjoyed the Grayson Highlands State Park. So much so that I think Guillermo and I are already planning a return hike because the AT hardly goes through any of the park. It would be nice to line that trip up with Trail Days in Damascus next year. Speaking of it, we will be there tomorrow. A zero, our first since Duncannon, PA, may be happening. The weather will decide. However, tucking in a Lost Mountain Shelter in my new tent. I love it already. No floor, but so much room! A screen nest might be nice. Another great fire and radio in camp. Love listening to that bluegrass. Well, falling asleep to the sound of rain on the tent. Lovely!
Date: 2010-11-04
From: Lost Mountain Shelter, VA

To: Hikers Inn, Damascas, VA
Miles today: 15.8

We walked into Damascas, VA a little late after dawdling at an outfitter on the outskirts of town. So, we missed the cheap $10 hostel, Dave's Place, because we got to Mt. Roger's Outfitters after 6:00 pm. We went to Hiker's Inn and met the new owners. Paul "Skink" had just finished his NOBO hike and bought the place on his way through town. We had the bunkhouse all to ourselves. Nice beds and a HOT shower! After hiking in a cold rain all day this was just what we needed to go out to Quincy's on open mic night. Well, we jammed out with the locals. Good Times!
Date: 2010-11-05
From: Damascas, VA

To: Hikers Inn, Damascas, VA
Miles today: 0.0

The combined snow and wind this morning convinced us to zero, our first since Duncannon, PA over 650 miles ago. I think I deserve a little break, right? Only 3 miles away from Tennessee. I'll be home soon! ALSO!!! I've been on the trail for 4 months today.Slept until 10:30, then shopped at MRO and did all other essential town duties. At the library, my college friend, Matt Limone, IM'd me. Since he was close to Damascus, I invited him on down to hang out and talk about his NOBO '11 hike preparations. He helped us resupply, we helped him prep, and we all had another good night at Quincy's.
Date: 2010-11-06
From: Hikers Inn, Damascas, VA

To: Abingdon Gap Shelter, TN
Miles today: 10.2
Weather: overcast clouds

We got out of town late this morning. Depending on how you look at it, on time at 1:45 pm. Matt decided to tag-a-long and join us for a night which turned out to be the coldest one yet. We camped out at the shelter 10 miles out of town. My new tent also fits two comfortably as Matt and I shared because of the occupancy in the shelter. It was good to have Matt along, but he left us and we continued on.However, we saw two hunters on the trail today. One was very nice while the other seemed to be very nervous, probably because as I rounded a corner in the trail I saw him standing there pointing his muzzle loader at me like I was about to rush him caveman style. Close call. He shouldered his gun and asked some pointless questions. Hunting season is NOT my favorite season.Mom-One Pace has hiked home to Tennessee!! Once he reaches the Watauga Dam he will be retracing some miles but he loves the Roan Highlands almost as much as the Smokies so he is really looking forward to this stretch. The weather is forecast to be beautiful for the next few days and this will be a great section to hike in the sunshine. This was probably the coldest night so far but they were prepared.
Date: 2010-11-07
From: Abingdon Gap shelter, TN

To: Iron Mountain Shelter, TN
Miles today: 15.9
Weather: clear sky

Guillermo and I are jammin' out to some oldies tonight after falling short of our goal today. Oh well, you win some and lose some. The fire is nice at least, but it is cold. The radio says it is 24*. I believe it!
Date: 2010-11-08
From: Iron Mountain Shelter, TN

To: Laurel Fork Shelter, TN
Miles today: 22.7
Weather: clear sky

We hiked 22.7 miles to Laurel Fork Shelter from Iron Mountain. It was a busy day with only two breaks. Mostly walking and thinking. At Wilbur Dam Road I finally hit the secion of the AT that I have already done. It's nice to be on familiar territory! However, we tossed around the idea of going to Bob Peoples' hostel, Kincora, but it was dark when we got to the shelter. We had only had a 15 minute night hike and we didn't want to prolong it. Hate we missed staying there.
Date: 2010-11-09
From: Laurel Fork Shelter, TN

To: Abby's Hostel, TN
Miles today: 14.1

Today we started our slow down. It's great weather for hiking, but we decided to slow down, enjoy it, let a friend catch up, and be indoors on some cold nights. So, we went to Vango and Abby's Memorial Hostel at mile 1778.1. It was just right off the trail, but the caretaker wasn't there. No internet, but heat, four walls, a mattress and a locked door were nice. We thought we were going to be alone, but instead, a SOBO sectioner named Double Stuff came in. Nice older Texan, but he had severe night time breathing problems. Oh well, I enjoyed his 85 pound pack, his stories of 9' long Texan rattlesnakes and his stories of his attempted SOBO thru hike. The Laurel Fork Falls were beautiful today! Good night!
Date: 2010-11-10
From: Abby's Hostel, TN

To: Mountain Harbour Hostel, TN
Miles today: 12.6

Today we hiked an "impressive" 12 miles over really non-descript trail. It was fun pointing out all the places I had been and what I had done there to Guillermo. We got down to 19E and checked in at the Mountain Harbour Hostel. What a nice place! The owners, Terry and Mary helped us with resupply and clothes washing. The hostel was above the horse barn, but it was actually a really nice apartment. After that stay, I want to live in a barn! Guillermo, Double Stuff and I cooked pizzas and burritos, had some beers, and watched "Billy Madison", "Waterboy", and John Carpenter's "The Thing". Needless to say, we enjoyed their video library. We are under 400 miles to Springer!
Date: 2010-11-11
From: Mountain Harbour Hostel, TN

To: Overmountain Shelter, NC
Miles today: 9.2
Weather: clear sky

Today we weren't in a hurry. I had said that I wanted to stay at Overmountain Shelter no matter what, so we did. It was only 9 miles, so we didn't rush. Slept in, watched "Happy Gilmore" and eventually got on trail. Hump and Little Hump Mountains were spectacular and so is the shelter. Can't wait for sunrise tomorrow!Mom writes-One Pace and his dad hiked this section of the AT three years ago and regretted missing a stay in this beautiful shelter right over the state line. This was on the list of must-dos on the AT for Ben. The beautiful fall weather and low miles have made it a restful week on the trail. Tommorrow should be awesome on Roan Mountain!
Date: 2010-11-12
From: Overmountain Shelter, NC

To: Clyde Smith Shelter, TN
Miles today: 13.1
Weather: scattered clouds

So, couldn't really hike much today. Not for the bad weather, but for the perfect weather! Clear skies, barely a breeze, and lots of day hikers and sectioners to talk to. Only did 13 miles today, but I don't really care. Overmountain, Jane Bald, Round Bald, and Roan Mountain were just too beautiful to rush through. We did it just right. Tucking in at Clyde Smith Shelter.
Date: 2010-11-14
From: Curly Maple Gap Shelter, TN

To: No Business Knob Shelter, TN
Miles today: 10.5
Weather: broken clouds

One Pace's parents had an easy two hour drive from Knoxville to Uncle Johnny's Hostel to take the guys to lunch and grocery shopping in Erwin. The hostel had nice hot showers and laundry available. A little time on the computer, repacking and planning for the next section took much of the afternoon so the return to the trail at 4:30 guaranteed some night hiking into No Business Knob Shelter. One Pace is covering familiar trail and looking forward returning to Hot Springs and showing Guillermo around the town! Another meeting with family and hopefully some friends will come at Max Patch and I-40/Davenport Gap in about a week.
Date: 2010-11-15
From: No Business Knob Shelter, TN

To: Hogback Ridge Shelter, NC
Miles today: 20.7
Weather: light rain

Back and forth over the TN/NC state line on this section. Up and over Big Bald at 5516' elevation.In and out of rain today but managed to cover some miles. Will return to see Big Bald in better weather.
Date: 2010-11-16
From: Hogback Ridge Shelter, NC

To: Jerry Cabin Shelter, NC/TN
Miles today: 14.7
Weather: moderate rain

Mist, rain and high winds all day, but at least we got to sit on Big Butt Mountain. Fell short for the day, but there were 3 other hikers in the shelter enjoying a zero and a fire. We were obliged to enjoy the warmth with them. 298.2 miles to go!
Date: 2010-11-18
From: Spring Mountain Shelter, NC/TN

To: Deer Park Mountain Shelter, NC
Miles today: 14.2
Weather: scattered clouds

So. I really don't want this thru-hike to end. I'm enjoying myself, but at the same time, I think it's apprehension about returning to a "normal" life. What is the "real world"? What is a normal life? I don't know, but I know I am living in the real world. I'm normal here. Maybe I've been on this trail for too long. Oh well, I have some catching up to do as usual, but let's start with today.Woke up a little before 8 am (our time) in the tent by Spring Mountain Shelter. The mice were too much for me, but Guillermo didn's seem to mind. Before leaving, a new SOBO named "Low Step" showed up. It was nice to meet someone new. We swapped stories on our way into Hot Springs. Stopped by Rich Mountain Fire Tower for the views and that's when I noticed how much Low Step was enjoying himself. It was nice to share with him, but he is on a mission to finish before December. Guillermo and I have decided to enjoy ourselves, not push it. It's a shame we couldn't have hiked together more.Arrived in Hot Springs and enjoyed food in the restaurant and some computer time. Got our hiking permits for the Smokies in the outfitter and got out of town. Short night hike up to Deer Park Mountain Shelter, where Guillermo and I are winding down with the radio.
Date: 2010-11-20
From: Max Patch, NC

To: Standing Bear Farm, TN
Miles today: 13.6
Weather: overcast clouds

One Pace and Guillermo stopped at the hostel tonight so we can meet them at Davenport Gap for a resupply and meal tomorrow. This is a very familiar and favorite side of the Smokies for our family and we have had numerous picnics and swims at Big Creek. Friends and section hikers, Dick and Ann, will be coming to visit the SOBOs as well as Ben's sister who hasn't seen him since Maine. Should be fun!
Date: 2010-11-21
From: Standing Bear Farm, TN

To: Mt. Cammerer, GRSM
Miles today: 8.8

One Pace and Guillermo entered the Great Smoky Mountains National Park today. We met them at Davenport Gap and headed to Big Creek for lunch and resupply. The weather was beautiful and warm and they were eager to get back on the trail. Section hiker/friends who have supported and followed Ben on his hike came to the park to see Ben and meet Matt. We had a wonderful day!An old trail maintainer heard about these two awesome hikers and waxed poetic:There once was a SOBO named "One Pace,"Who started his hike with a clean face,But before he got homeSuch a beard had he grownThat all the NOBO's thought he was "No Face."andA tall SOBO who came from ohiOWas given the trail name "Guillermo."Whenever he ateHe loaded his plateWith mounds of catsup and potato.
Date: 2010-11-22
From: Mt. Cammerer, GRSM

To: Pecks Corner Shelter, GRSM
Miles today: 16.8
Weather: broken clouds

One Pace's Dad is an AT volunteer/architect for the AT shelter renovations in the Smokies. Cosby Knob shelter work was done in 2006, the 11th of 15 renovations to date. This is also the very first shelter One Pace stayed in as a little boy on a family backpacking trip in Sept. of 1996.One Pace and Guillermo are checking and filling AT shelter privy mulch buckets in the Smokies for the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club while in the park.
Date: 2010-11-23
From: Pecks Corner Shelter, NC 

To: Newfound Gap and Knoxville, TN
Miles today: 10.5
Weather: light rain

Planned to head on to Clingman's Dome but the nasty weather made a pick up at Newfound Gap look good so headed home to Knoxville for Thanksgiving with my family a day early. Guillermo and I are happy to have this break before the final push into Springer.
Date: 2010-11-26
From: Knoxville, TN to Newfound Gap, GRSM

To: Mt.Collins Shelter, GRSM
Miles today: 5.0
Weather: overcast clouds

Full bellies and packs headed back to the trail on a chilly windy day. Stops in downtown Knoxville and the Sunsphere as well as UT's Neyland Stadium gave Matt a brief look at Ben's hometown. At the Newfound Gap parking lot a former thru-hiker wanted to share food and the guys just weren't able to pack it in or on, yet thanked him for the kindness. They left headed to Mt. Collins for a very cold night. Hopefully, sunshine in the morning will make the climb to Clingmans Dome a little more pleasant. 200.2 miles to Springer!
Date: 2010-11-29
From: Fontana Dam Shelter, NC

To: Brown Fork Gap Shelter, NC
Miles today: 13.3
Weather: light rain

One Pace and Guillermo had a late night yesterday getting into the Fontana Hilton. They crossed the Dam and then walked out of their way looking for the blazes to go to the trail and shelter. They reported finding food left in a hanging bag at Mollies Ridge Shelter that will stretch their supplies to NOC. The hot shower was great at the visitor's center and they enjoyed lunch in Fontana before hitting the trail again. They are not looking forward to the wind and rain tomorrow and expect it might keep them from reaching NOC on Tuesday.
Date: 2010-11-30
From: Brown Fork Gap Shelter, NC

To: Nantahala Outdoor Center, NC
Miles today: 16.0
Weather: light rain

Sloggy, wet hiking for the guys today. No views, but lots of wind on Cheowah Bald. Unfortunately for the SOBOs things are shutting down and not lots to choose from for resupply. Still, they say that they have food and things are good, especially now that this day of rain and wind will end with a hot shower, dry indoor bunk and a good night's sleep.
Date: 2010-12-03
From: Rock Gap Shelter, NC

To: Standing IndianShelter, NC
Miles today: 19.7
Weather: overcast clouds

Saw One Pace and Guillermo at about 11AM today (12/3/10) between Rock Gap Shelter and Big Spring Shelter, then again while they ate lunch at Big Spring Shelter. They planned to get to Standing Indian today and will try to call us Saturday so we can give them a ride when they get to Dicks Creek Gap/Rt 76/Hiawassee. Took pictures and sent to the email address listed on the 'about' section of this journal. Nice guys to talk to and looked like they were having a great day ! The Herings
Date: 2010-12-04
From: Standing IndianShelter, NC

To: Hiawassee, GA
Miles today: 16.7
Weather: overcast clouds

One Pace and Guillermo received a real gift of kindness from Trail Angels. The Herings of Hiawassee, GA picked them up at the trailhead on US 76 at Dicks Creek Gap and have provided so much for them tonight. After a very rainy, cold day on the trail, they have warm beds, full stomachs, clean clothes and food for the trail. This was a real unexpected treat for the guys and a tremendous comfort for their parents. Thank you, thank you!!
Date: 2010-12-05
From: Hiawassee, GA

To: Helen, GA
Miles today: 16.6

After a great breakfast, the Herings drove the guys back to Dick's Creek Gap. Starting a little later than when on the trail suited them fine but required some night hiking to get to the road. There, a fellow 2010 Maryville College graduate of One Pace picked them up for a ride to, dinner and a motel in Helen, GA. One Pace and Guillermo appreciate all the help so much. Thanks Herings and LetaAnn Marie!
Date: 2010-12-06
From: Helen, GA

To: Neels Gap, GA
Miles today: 20.2
Weather: clear sky

Neels Gap/Mountain Crossings at Walasi-Yi Center. Check owner Winton Porter's book, Just Passin' Thru. A really good read about the hostel and the hikers they meet on the trail. I know they enjoy seeing the SOBOs coming through since the hostel is 30 miles away from the end of their journey. Also, this is a great place for NOBOs where they can get equipment advice and a shakedown for what they don't need on the trail. Read it, it's good entertainment! Now if it just wasn't so cold. Funny how One Pace and Guillermo started in Maine during a sweltering heat wave and are finishing in some unusually cold weather for the south. Talk about extremes!!Later: One Pace called and it was 12* with a 30mph wind this morning when they hit the trail. No snow but COLD and negative wind chill!