morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2007-04-05
From: Franklin, NC

To: Cold Spring Shelter
Miles today: 16.8
Weather: clear sky

 Anxious to get back on the trail. 30 passenger yellow bus took us back to our exit point. 9:15 am start. A good hour later than normal, plus we wanted to ger 16 miles. If we can do 28 in two days there is a hostel where we can stay and shower for $15.00. Freezing weather for the next 4-5 days. Inside a building would be nice. Tonight I'm in my thermal underwear, socks, and anyting else I can put on. The day time temps of 40-50 degrees makes walking very enjoyable. Made 15.9 miles.   Walked a mile through what had been a forest fire. 5300+ foot mountain climb again today. Glad we had frest legs. In bed early to stay warm.
Date: 2007-04-06
From: Cold Springs Shelter

To: Natahla River
Miles today: 11.5

Didn't really work hard. It got cold. The wind blows hard on the top of the mountains. We were so smart, just got up and walked. Then, we didn't stop and eat, so by the end of the day we were dragging. Met a gentleman from France. He was just out for three days. A big down today--3000 feet; tomorrow we go up for 7 miles. Still very cold. Staying by the Natahala river at a hostel. Hostel is not so bad, 6 bunk beds in a 12x 16. Showered. Beer and all you can eat salad bar.
Date: 2007-04-07
From: Natahla River

To: Stecoah Gap
Miles today: 13.6
Weather: overcast clouds

   We were up early, wanted to get some good miles--3322 foot climb to Cheoch Bald [unable to read name well]. It was snowing. Dave, being in the lead, had to be extra careful. We were the first through the trail and it was easy to slip. Beautiful scenery. Tough walk. Feeling sorry for myself--missing the Jacobs' [sic] [it was the Davis'] 1st Easter turkey.   Completed 13.6 tough miles. Trail angels met us as we exited the trail. I got a business card--Bare Bear's Trail Magic. Just wonderful what people do. Found a camping spot out of the wind. 12 degrees tonight. Record low for the area. Suppose to start warming tomorrow. Into the Great Smoky Mountains by Monday.
Date: 2007-04-08
From: Stecoah Gap

To: Fontana Dam Shelter
Miles today: 15.1
Weather: scattered clouds

   Angels twice today. What a wonderful thing. Served us water and cocoa. Off, up a chilly mountain. Saw our breath most of the day. We were just tired. Still did 15.1. Shooting for a shorter day tomorrow. Saw Fontana Dam from the mountain tops. It's blue water stretches for miles. Signed into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We don't pay. They have special rules for through hikers.As we were dragging into our shelter, more trail angels appeared. Two hot dogs, ham sandwich, cherry pie and potato chips. It really tastes great. They are from Indiana. They just come to serve the walkers. Had a shower at the dam. Sleeping in a shelter. What a great time.
Date: 2007-04-09
From: Fontana Dam Shelter

To: Russell Field Shelter
Miles today: 13.8
Weather: overcast clouds

   We were planning on a short day, but to get over a mountain tomorrow, we needed to get some good miles--13.8. We are in the Great Smoky mountains. They will be the tallest till we are way north. It is much warmer, but I'm still writing with gloves. Dave's new shoe inserts have stopped the blisters. We were so concerned about how high the mountains will be. Walking really went well. Breakfast was again served by the crew from Indiana. So many wonderful people.
Date: 2007-04-10
From: Russell Field Shelter

To: Silers Bald Shelter
Miles today: 14.7
Weather: light rain

This morning the shelter was full. Another 10 camping outside. Everybody was back on the trail after the cold snap. This was the more difficult day for the Smoky's. We did 14.7 The Smoky's have the highest elevation till Maine.   This evening we're at Siler's Bald Shelter. Wind is blowing, plastic covers the front. 15 people, double decked. Sleeping bags zipper to zipper. The floor is 16 feet wide, 16 feet deep.   The walk was difficult. Steep ups. Steep downs. Hardly anything level. Day was relatively warm. Ended up in shorts and walking jacket. Weather report for tonight and tomorrow--rain. Hard to believe that I am having such an enjoyable time.
Date: 2007-04-11
From: Silers Bald Shelter

To: Icewater Spring Shelter
Miles today: 15.5
Weather: overcast clouds

     What a day. The wind was at least 40 mph. Fog limited visibility to 40 yards. Temp was in the 30's. Had to worry about being blown off the mountain. Made it to Clingman's Dome--6,643 feet. So worried about the wind, the walk seemed easy. Walking down hill there were many huge trees blown down. Easily 2 1/2 feet in diameter. The walk path was icy in many, many places. We had to walk on the edges of the trail repeatedly. Saw our first fence. Was put in place to keep wild pigs out of part of the woods. Most people got off at US 441. We went on to IceWater Spring Shelter and it was; roaring rain and icy paths. Got soaked. Hope to dry out tonight.
Date: 2007-04-12
From: Icewater Spring Shelter

To: Tri-Corner Knob Shelter
Miles today: 12.6
Weather: clear sky

  Absolutely fabulous day. We could see for at least 40 miles in every direction. Hardly a cloud in the sky. 60 degrees for the flatlanders. We, being in the mountains, probably hit 45 or so. We climbed the highest mountain yet-6417 feet. I took several pictures. I'm sure they will not show the majesty. The town in the distance is Gatlinburg. Many of the hikers caught a ride yesterday. Even though we were tired from our 15.5 miles yesterday, the walk went well. The path was steep but not ridiculous. For one stretch we walked up hill for 55 minutes. That is a little short of 2 miles. We went 11.6 today. Today could not have been much better.
Date: 2007-04-13
From: Tri-Corner Knob Shelter

To: Near I-40
Miles today: 17.0

Started at +6000 feet and ended at 1600. Completed 17 miles. It was almost all down hill. We wanted to get close to our next re-supply, so we just walk a couple and get to get cleaned up, wash clothes, re-supply.   Uneventful day except for some beautiful vistas. It will be great to talk to Denise tomorrow. This should be the longest stretch between re-supply. The walk is great, just miss my Denise and my family. Got out of the Great Smoky mountains today. Majestic. Can hear traffic from I-40. Tomorrow, clean clothes, clean body, fresh food.
Date: 2007-04-14
From: Near I-40

To: Standing Bear Farm Hostel
Miles today: 1.0
Weather: light rain

Camped outside of The Standing Bear Farm Hostel. Walked in early. We were worried about it being full, because of the coming rain. No need to worry. Most were on their way out. Great to get cleaned up. Bought enough food to get to Hot Springs. Called home. Great to hear Denise's voice. Relaxed the day away. Grabbed a book by Erma Bombeck. A fun read. Will carry on the trail. Clean clothes--what a joy! Ate half a pizza with Dave. We are now paying our own way. We were not remembering well--as to who owed what. Slept beside a small waterfall last night. Hostel is very rustic. Bunkbeds from trees, sheds for toilet, shower, bunkhouses, kitchen and washer/dryer-camper-phone. Just an excellent relaxing day.
Date: 2007-04-15
From: Standing Bear Farm Hostel

To: Roaring Fork Shelter
Miles today: 15.5
Weather: moderate rain

This is being written on Monday evening. The weather was so bad I could not write. Lost my glasses and guide book. Got out of hostel at 8am. The weather went from warm to cold. Just a dreary day. First time I had thoughts like "why am I doing this". Then we came upon a trail angel. He blessed me like a priest blesses you and I thought this is stupid, get with the program. So with a snow storm coming we headed out with everything we had on. The winds were so great, it blew the guide posts down. The "bald" was a real challenge; wind gusts to 100 mph, made the snow even worse. One person is lost from that day. Talked to his dad on the 16th. So upset. We struggled and made it to shelter, late. 15+ miles in a heck of a storm.Then the shelter had been moved 3/4 of a mile and it was not in our guide books. We were looking for a place to pitch our tents when we saw shelter. So cold we pitched 5 tents in an eight person shelter. Hadn't slept with my brother in over 40 years. Very cold. So hard to sleep. Found a nylon sleeping bed insert at the hostel. Made a huge difference. When we were trying to locate the shelter, I got out my glasses and guide book. Put them inside my jacket instead of back in my back pack packet. Lost them both.
Date: 2007-04-16
From: Roaring Fork ShelterShelter

To: Hot Springs
Miles today: 18.0
Weather: scattered clouds

Got up frozen. Walked ourselves warm. Everyone was in a hurry to get to Hot Springs--18 miles. Dave and I thought we would give it a try. Of course, everyone passed the two old fogies. We plodded along. Was a real easy walk, luckily. One bad hill. Actually went quite well. Warmed as the day went on. Got into a B&B. Had a burger and a beer. Washed myself and my clothes. Looking for a great night's sleep.
Date: 2007-04-17
From: Hot Springs

To: Hot Springs
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

First full day off. Two nights at Duckett B&B. It's $45 per person. So, I can get a room by myself for $45, or sleep with my brother; and we still pay $45 each. Nice B&B. Strange rules.Purchased food for 5 days. Hot springs has a population of 600. Small grocery and a Dollar General got the job done.Dave and I ate well. I had black eyed beans and deep fat fried corn with my gravy covered beef. Delicious. Went out for a beer. Bunch of hikers were having a great time attempting to shoot pool. Will be good to get back on the trail. Late start tomorrow. Breakfast at 8:30. Rain in the forecast. Called Denise. So nice to speak with her.
Date: 2007-04-18
From: Hot Springs

To: Allen Gap
Miles today: 14.7
Weather: overcast clouds

Had a B&B breakfast. Pancakes, eggs, banana, coffee, orange juice--very good. Dave left his Hiker's Companion at the hiker store. Opened at nine. No luck. I replaced my lost guide , so we are fine.Had a tough time getting on the trail. Missed a white blaze and walked at least 1/2 mile up hill. Got a ride back to town and started our day again.Really uneventful day. Sunny. Warm. 60% chance of rain. We got the dry 40%. Walked 14.7 with a late start and a mis-directed beginning walk.Camping at the start of the Pisgah National Forest. Next few days we are in 4000 foot mountains.Saw two head stones along the trail. They get lots of visitors, but we don't know who they are. Lovely day to walk. Just uneventful. Trail Magic for breakfast if we want.
Date: 2007-04-19
From: Allen Gap

To: Jerry Cabin Shelter
Miles today: 11.7
Weather: light rain

3What a day. We were thinking another 14+. Didn't read our guide well. One of the most difficult climbs. 1.3 miles up 1130 feet. It just kept going up and up and up.Then we went over the top of three mountains. Boulder after rock after boulder. We were using our hands for the climb.Dave and I are both tuckered out. We Stopped at 3:15. Put on all my clothes; a bit chilly. Thermostat says it's 45 degrees. Was actually a nice day. Missed the rain. Partly sunny.Vistas were awesome. When we were going to the top, I got disoriented. I felt like I was in a maze; circle upon circle; back and forth. Don't know how we ended up going the correct direction, but we did.
Date: 2007-04-20
From: Jerry Cabin Shelter

To: Hogback Ridge Shelter
Miles today: 14.7
Weather: overcast clouds

Took no pictures today. No vistas. The flowers are starting to bloom. There is a walker named Butter [sorry, I can't read her name]. She is constantly taking pictures. Knows all the names. It certainly appears to be her passion.The walk went well today; sun broke through the fog after 3 hours of walking. There were no difficult climbs. We were still tired from yesterday, so we called it quits at 3:45 pm and 14.7 miles.Staying at Hogback Ridge Shelter. Water was at least 1/2 mile away. We filled everything we had. I'm setting up my tent. I've had complaints about my snoring.Looking to get to Erwin late Sunday.
Date: 2007-04-21
From: Hogback Ridge Shelter

To: Campsite
Miles today: 15.6
Weather: clear sky

Happy Birthday, Danica!The most beautiful walking day yet. Sunny. Small Breeze. 50-60 degrees. No fog.Dave and I made a concerted effort to keep a slow steady pace with longer breaks. I felt much fresher at the end of the day--15.6 miles.Our best view was Big Bald at 5,516 feet. The view was spectacular. Took our packs off to insure we soaked in the view. Felt like we could see 30 miles in every direction.Had more Trail Magic; coffee, water, cookies were setting on the trail near the top of one of our mountains.Flowers have burst open. Small five leafed flowers called spring beauties covered the mountainside. For several miles they covered the side of mountains. Glorious Day.
Date: 2007-04-22
From: Campsite

To: Chestoa Bridge
Miles today: 11.3

Walked 11.3 miles today to get to Erwin, TN. Almost all down hill. That means when we start back on the trail, it will be uphill; forever.No vistas for pictures. Finishing my roll of film for my mail home tomorrow.Denise has put my journal on the internet. Looking forward to see what it is like.Relaxing forthe remainder of the day. Washed clothes. bought food. ate a real meal--steak with baked potato. Be nice to sleep in a real bed tonight. Great to speak to Denise and the girls. It is great that Denise has been so supportive to allow me to do this. Love her so.
Date: 2007-04-23
From: Chestoa Bridge

To: Indian Grave Gap
Miles today: 8.3
Weather: scattered clouds

Near Irwin, TNNice to sleep in a real bed. Super 8 Motel is cheap and comfortable. We had little to do before getting back to the trail. Mailed my trail notes and another roll of film. I enjoyed the small, southern town friendliness. Had a huge breakfast: egg x 3, grits, biscuts & gravy, hash browns, and bacon. Excellent.   Wanted to get a few miles in before dark and the trail is up 3700 feet in the first 10 miles. It started with a 1300 foot climb in 1.3 miles. That got our attention. Didn't think we would have much to look at--just climbing. Then we happened upon a seven foot long black snake. I do have pictures. I grabbed for its tail. It snapped at me. I about fell off the mountain. Much more interesting the the skunk I ran from last week.   Beautiful sunny day. Certainly got in the high 70's. Too hot for climbing mountains. Much better than the thunderstorms that are suppose to be on the way for the next several days. We can only take what comes.
Date: 2007-04-24
From: Indian Grave Gap

To: Stream
Miles today: 12.3
Weather: few clouds

We thought we could get 16 miles today. Started at 7:50. Had noticed that half the hikers got a ride 19 miles ahead and "slack-packed"--only brought water and food--back to Erwin. Initially thought they just wanted an extra day in town. WRONG. This 19 miles kicked our butts. The 8 yesterday and first 11 today are the most difficult miles we have done, yet. It will add one extra day to get to Dennis Cove, our next resupply stop. Yet, we were lucky. 50 % chance of rain and it missed us.   Dave said, "No pictures today. Only ups and downs; and rocks and roots." He was mostly correct. There were very few downs, mostly all ups. Tomorrow up over 6,000 feet again.
Date: 2007-04-25
From: Stream

To: Roan High Know Shelter
Miles today: 11.0
Weather: overcast clouds

We have really slowed down. We've averaged 10 miles per day. The climbs again were huge. There were 3 today: 500 feet in .8 of a mile; 1500 feet in 1.5 miles; 850 feet in .7 of a mile. I am bushed. Took 6 pictures: 3 vistas, 2 steep trails, and 1 fire warden cabin.   The cabin was built by the CCC in the Depression. It is a one room cabin. Of course, the Fire Warden stayed there while he was on duty from the fire lookout. All that is left of that is the foundation.   Finally saw some animals. Last night I saw the track of a bear and a "live" canine. It was at some distance. It could have been a wolf, dog or coyote. Today I saw two deer. Actually their rears as they disappeared down the mountain. Toughest 3 days on the AT. We did well.
Date: 2007-04-26
From: Roan High Knob Shelter

To: Apple House Shelter
Miles today: 14.7

We were told that today could be one of the most beautiful walks. We had 2-3 hours with no trees. Vistas were great; but: a little foggy; a little cloudy; then as we got to the base of Hump Mountain, clouds rolled in. Winds hit at least 50 MPH, and rain came at us sideways. It was the last mountain of the day. We paid no attention to it--the height that is. Just tried to keep my face out of the wind and rain.   Stayed at the Apple House Shelter. Probably what it was used for, certainly not built as a shelter. Good to get back to a 15 mile day. This one will be a day remembered.
Date: 2007-04-27
From: Apple House Shelter

To: Campsite
Miles today: 15.7
Weather: light rain

We left North Carolina for good. We are into Tennessee. It only shows 71 miles and we are in Virginia. The last few days have been tiring. We had planned about 14 miles today, but the "Planner" was wrong. There was no camp/water where it said. We ended up two tired walkers at 15.7 or 16 miles--really do not know exactly where we are. So looking forward to a short day and a shower and resupply.   Three pictures today--a stream; a mountain of no relivance and a flower near our campsite. Beautiful sunny day. Heard a weather report. Sunny for the next 7-10 days. Hasn't been right yet. Hope this one is.   Nice to go over 400 miles. 20% will be done at 435. Will really feel like we are on our way. Walked with wet boots today. I may have gotten my first blister. Hope it is just a hot sopt. Both of our water filters are on the fritz. Have to pick up something tomorrow. Four days from the next oufitter. I believe I will sleep very well tonight.
Date: 2007-04-28
From: Campsite

To: Kincora Hostel
Miles today: 8.1

Was really glad we stopped last night. Felt so much better for the final 8.1 miles. I had two "hot spots" on my feet. Put duct tape on them and "NO BLISTERS". One good vista picture. The trail was in extremely good shape. The gentleman in charge of this section runs KINKORA HOSTEL. He only takes donations, so you could actually stay free.   Washed clothes, cleaned bodies. Taken to town for Chinese Buffet and resupply.<   Such a good day. It even rained after we got to the hostel. 12 bunk beds in an attic. What a way to come off the trail. Called Denise. Just great to hear her voice. Four days from Damascus [where]we are taking a day off.
Date: 2007-04-29
From: Kinkora

To: Vandeventer Shelter
Miles today: 17.5
Weather: broken clouds

   One of the most beautiful and well kept parts of the trail. Water falls, bridges over streams--just gorgeous. Then we had a real tough climb--1800 feet in a very short distance. Walked by Watauga Lake. Deep blue color some 15 miles long. We were planning a short day, but we didn't plan well. Our water purifiers became clogged. Our pills need 4 hous to purify. When we stopped at Watauga Lake a fellow hiker told us that, if we sprayed water on our filters, they would probably work. There happened to be a faucet near so we gave them a good spray. Our water was in short supply, so we ended up having to go 15.8 miles to get to water. Eureka! Our water purifier worked. We pumped our evening and morning water and walked the final 1.7 miles and finished at Vandeventer Shelter. Second longest walk ever--17.5 miles.   Now only two good days from Damascus. Tomorrow we go over 20% of trail completed.
Date: 2007-04-30
From: Vandeventer Shelter

To: Double Springs Shelter
Miles today: 14.4
Weather: clear sky

 It is now official 20% of the AT complete. We were at the Nick Grindstaff Monument. He lived on Iron Mountain as a hermit for over 40 years.   The trail was really quite easy--14.4 miles and done at 3:30. Just going down hill for the last 26 miles to Damascus. I am in need of a rest. We will get to town Wednesday about noon. Will take Thursday off. Will certainly be ready and refreshed for the walk of Virginia--546.7 miles. Over 25% of the AT in this state. Nothing of consequence on the trail today. Just dreaming of Damascus and a couple of cold beers.
Date: 2007-05-01
From: Double Springs Shelter

To: Damascus
Miles today: 18.3
Weather: scattered clouds

We were planning on a 13 mile day. Then we got caught up in the possibility of getting to Damascus, so we treked on. Relatively easy wlak. We are talking of getting to 18 miles per day. We shall see. Took no pictures. Just put my head down and walked. Only thing of note: saw a gray squirrel. Two days off. We need the rest.
Date: 2007-05-02
From: Damascus

To: Damascus
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

It is official. We are taking some time off before we attack Virginia. We are talking 70 miles in 5 days. Then 90 miles in 5 1/2 days--three times in a row. We'll see how the old men make out. Want to get the 542+ miles done in right at 6 weeks. That will leave us just short of 1/2 way, and just short of 3 months on the road.Today we washed clothes and bought some needed equipment. Tomorrow is food. Great to speak with Denise and Emily. Wrote and sent letters home. Had a beer by the river.
Date: 2007-05-03
From: Damascus

To: Damascus
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: light rain

Day two. No miles. Getting antsy for the "walk of Virginia." Looking at the thru-hikers companion; it shows the length between shelters--length to what seems to be an average of 10 miles apart. We'll see how we do. Shopped for groceries. Organized my pack. Took my last shower for a few days. I'm ready. Nice meal tonight and hopefully, an early start in the morning.
Date: 2007-05-04
From: Damascus

To: Lost Mtn Shelter
Miles today: 15.8
Weather: light rain

Got started at 7:30. Worried about how it would feel after the time off. Felt great! Just good to get away from the noise--just birds chirping: no cars, no people, no trucks.The trail followed rapids for several miles. Could not see it well. The sound of the crashing water is soothing. There is an abandoned rail line being used as a 17 mile no-need-to-pedal bike trail. It is call the Virginia Creeper Trail. The rail was used by a lumber train. It had cogged wheels to allow it to get up the steep grades.No hikers passed us, neither did we pass any. I met 2 hikers, 5 bikers, and 1 fly fisherman. The trail becomes less populated as we go north. Saw 4 different companies that take bikes to the top of the Virginia Creeper Trail. Bought chicken packets--taste great with the supper vegetable packets. Got rained on. Lasted about one hour. Just great to get back on the trail. Saw a deer--yearling--easily within 10 yards--just stood there looking at us.
Date: 2007-05-05
From: Lost Mtn Shelter

To: Thomas Knob Shelter
Miles today: 12.2
Weather: light rain

Short walk today to get to the tallest mountain in Virginia--Mt. Rogers--5490 feet. Just a steady climb for most of the day. Was waiting for the sun to break through all day. The vista is suppose to be great. It's raining, raining, raining just as we got to Thomas Shelter on top of Mt. Rogers.Took 3 pictures: mountain side of white flowers, Mt. Rogers from a distance and three leafed plant with purple flower.Dave is feeling better since the 2 day rest. So do I. Talking about a 20 mile day--day after tomorrow. Would really like to try. Picture of a squirrel. Ate 3 orange Jelly Beans.
Date: 2007-05-06
From: Thomas Knob Shelter

To: Hurricane Mtn Shelter
Miles today: 16.0
Weather: scattered clouds

The clouds blew to the west. Perfectly clear sky. 3 vista pictures. Saw many deer. 3 or 4 scout groups had camped to climb the highest mountain in Virginia and see the wild horses. We were out early. Got some good horse pictures. They will rip your pack off to get your goodies. Just an absolute beautiful day. Several hours of views. Cool, crisp and clear.Rest of the day was just a walk through the trees to get to our shelter. Someone said one the the top three views on the AT. Glad we could experience it.