morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2014-09-09
From: Long Pond Stream Lean-to

To: West Branch Pleasant River
Miles today: 15.0

If yesterday's hike covered all the "course" content, today separated the As from the Bs. There were several tough climbs, lots of difficult rocks and we were pretty exhausted by the end of the day. We've been told it gets much easier after the first 30 miles, let's hope that's true.I've noticed a sense of excitement among everyone. It's like we live in the midwest and we are going to the annual county fair. Everyone is anticipating what it will be like, and what they plan to do. Anyone we meet going SOBO is excited for us and wishes us well. The excitement builds!
Date: 2014-09-10
From: West Branch Pleasant River

To: East Branch Lean-to
Miles today: 16.4

Today was the last big climb before Katahdin. There were 4 peaks and all we wanted was for them to be over. But the trail itself was much better, and there were several sections of really well made rock staircases to help. The real reward though was our first view of Katahdin; awesome! It has been great to be a member of this hiking community. Hikers are a different breed. I also run and cycle; those groups are more elitist and competitive. Hikers look out for each other and respect each other for what they are attempting. Each goal accomplished is a communal success. I cannot recall hearing heated words between any 2 hikers. Living with just basics means few clothes, no showers, etc. One hiker friend, Cooncat, referred to it as "feeling good about feeling bad". They embrace that, they even proudly refer to themselves as "hiker trash". Every hiker we have met southbound has congratulated us on our approaching finish.So, if you are in a trailtown or near a trailtown and see a gaunt, unshaven person with a pack, ask if they are a hiker and where they are headed. You may get some great stories, and some of them may even be true. Better yet, give them a ride, give them some trail magic or pick up their check; it would be a great service for a good person.
Date: 2014-09-11
From: East Branch Pleasant River

To: Potaywadjo Lean-to
Miles today: 19.5

Continuing on the final exam theme there were 2 more areas that the "test" focused on today. First - hiking in the rain. A few minutes after we left the lean-to this morning it started to rain, and it rained all day. It wasn't a hard driving rain but it was cold enough to need to keep moving. Second - because it was cold and raining we decided to go on further than planned, to end at a Lean-to rather than a tent site. So we spent the full day hiking fast and ended up doing 19.5 miles in 9 hours, a speed we haven't seen since before the Whites. Unfortunately, when we got to the lean-to it was full so we had to tent in the rain anyway. But I'm in my tent & dry so its all good.
Date: 2014-09-12
From: Potaywadjo Lean-to

To: Rainbow Stream Lean-to
Miles today: 19.0

Today was the easiest so far. A bit cool and windy but all in all very nice. We had a great view of Katahdin from Nesuntabunt Mtn., much closer than before.Before I get caught up in the final days I want to make a last Thank You to every one that assisted me. There are too many to list individually but thank to all the trail angels, hostel people, friends, relatives, co-workers and other hikers that gave rides, gave trail magic, snickers, soda, gave advice, provided a warm, dry bed, sent prayers, encouragement, and kind words. Most important I thank my wife and kids for their support and willingness to listen to endless stories for the past years and years to come.
Date: 2014-09-13
To: Abol Pines State Campground
Miles today: 14.1

We pushed on past our intended stop to try to get in before rain, to get a hot meal early, because we were low on snacks and to set us up for the walk into Baxter St. Park tomorrow, which may be in the rain. We will have Breakfast burritos and coffee at the general store and hike 9.9 miles into the park. My wonderful wife will pick us up and take us into town for the night. Monday, weather and the state park rangers permitting, we summit!
Date: 2014-09-14
From: Rainbow Stream Lean-to

To: Katahdin Inn, Millinocket, ME
Miles today: 9.9

7 years, 10 months and 29 days ago I got my trail name ( see Trail Name to the left). I did 7 sections of roughly 200 miles each and this year my 840+ mile LASH. It is the hardest physical thing I have ever done. I am proud to have hiked along with so many Thruhikers as they did it in one season.Finally, I am now WORTHY to climb Katahdin.Steve Sharpe
Date: 2014-09-15
From: Katahdin Inn, Millinocket, ME

To: Katahdin Inn, Millinocket, ME
Miles today: 10.4

Today was the ultimate trail day. The day started with breakfast in the Appalachian Trail Cafe and a drive back out to Baxter State Park. Yesterday on arrival we had checked in with the ranger there and I was number 504 for the year to arrive to finish the trail. We started up the trail at 7:45 with the temperature in the 40s. The climb (5.2 miles and 4200+ feet up) got progressively harder the further we got. The middle third was a tough rock and boulder climb that cleared out many of the day hikers that did not anticipate that level of difficulty. By the time we got to the top we were in our warmest clothing, gloves and fleece hat, and still cold with the wind, moisture and temps that must have been in the 30's. There was ice on the plants around us. The last 2 miles was in table lands in the clouds. At one point I could see through the mist to an unmistakable view of the end of the trail sign. I was overwhelmed with the impact of seeing the sign, that all of the work for the past 8 years and most recent 9 weeks was finally reaching the goal. I just stood and soaked it in for a minute before going to to meet the others that were already there. As we celebrated and took the official pictures the clouds slowly lifted, the winds were reduced and the temperature rose into the 50's. After about an hour we started back down, which was seemingly much easier; it was warmer, sunny, and the wind had died. We were also giddy with relief and anxious to get down. Gear Dog's wife Lisa and my wife Tina met the three of us near the bottom of the trail and we went down to the parking lot for snacks and some bubbly for toasts. I'm sure the impact will hit me in the coming days but for now the feeling was mainly of relief and satisfaction.Katahdin - DoneMaine - DoneAppalachian Trail - DONE!
Date: 2014-03-08
To: Peters Mountain Practice hike
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

Today my wife and I did a practice hike up Peters Mountain. It was a glorious day to be out on the trail! We were surprised the trail was easier than we expected based on the profile. There were many switch backs and it was actually a gentle climb. We are very excited to get on the trail in 9 days and as we wrap things up on the home front we have more and more time to anticipate about our departure .
Date: 2014-03-08
To: second entry...
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

So we checked out Rice Field Shelter and the view was AWESOME!!! We could hike every mile in weather like today and with views like this. We also look forward to the other weather to come our way but today was perfect.We have been planning our hike since October, practicing around our backyard hills. We are so bored with them. There is something special about not knowing what is around the next bend in the trail...J5
Date: 2014-03-08
To: Anticipation
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

We are hiking for many reasons which we will include over the next week before our departure. The purpose of our journal is to let our friends, supporters, and loved ones follow us.With this being said, we need to make certain we can use our iPhone to upload pictures and journal entries. We see others doing it but we have not tried it ourselves - yet.We will fill in blanks before we depart...
Date: 2014-03-09
To: a poem
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

Backpacking is to be ALIVE! ...to sleep like a baby, shiver in the night air, melt in the summer heat, dodge bugs, bathe in creeks, to see what is around the bend, over the next hill, to challenge one's body.... Backpacking is to know the... Cocoon of a heavy quilt of snow, ethereal wonderland, crispy winter air, exhilaration Stunning transformation from stark naked to a leafy new wardrobe, greening with each lengthening day Soft breezes, sunshine caresses, musky forests, cloak of scented steamy summer air Dew laden lacy cobwebs, wafting butterflies, soaring birds, ever shifting seasons Orchestra of bird, water, wind, rain, cicadas, tree frogs, critters Brilliant finale of smell and color as the winter disrobing approaches, restless wonder riding the cooling air and shortening days Backpacking is sustenance, it is... Smell and taste, breath deep, wet water, hot pines, spicy rhododendron, spring flowers, blanketing frogs, fall maturity Heartbeat - the ebb and flow of the day and night, movement of mountain mists, breath of sunshine on wet grasses, crispy night air Thrills - the low roar of wind traveling down the valleys, ominous rumble of an approaching rain, acrid smell of lightening, the heavy cloak of a storm Backpacking is more than living, it is to be Alive! by Beth Vuolo
Date: 2014-03-10
To: Wrapping up on the homefront 
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

We are wrapping up all the loose ends before departing early next week. Yesterday we moved our horses to our friends' house (thank you Cheryl and Mark!) where they will spend the summer. Last eye doctor appointment was today in Charlotte NC which is 3.5 hours away. Our teeth are cleaned, crowned, filled or extracted as needed. Annual physicals are complete. Pets are vetted, vaccinated, and teeth cleaned. Chickens have been relocated. Bills are paid, taxes are filed and returned already. Minimized junk emails. Mom & Dad, with brother's help, are babysitting the pets in our home for the next 6 months. There are not enough thanks for that! Without our family and friends, we could not manage this time away.We are fundraising for our local charities here in Summers County WV. We will tell you more soon......Beth
Date: 2014-03-10
To: Hinton Area Foundation Fund raiser efforts
Miles today: 0.0

As has been reported previously, John and Beth Vuolo will be leaving for the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail on 18 March 2014. It is anticipated to take them six months to complete the nearly 2200 miles north ending up at Katahdin Mountain, Maine. The Hinton Area Foundation is sponsoring a fund raiser for its many nonprofits by challenging all potential donors to pledge so much per mile that John and Beth actually travel on their trek.All funds that donors may want to pledge to can be found listed on the Hinton Area Foundation websitewww.hintonareafoundation.com front page at the top under the Annual Report. You can make your pledge by contacting Jerry Beasley by email at jbeasley@suddenlink.net. If you wish to mail in your pledge you can access an electronic version of the pledge form located atdocs.google.com/forms/d/1B3ct-z16SbK0AvBQNBhupOxoTXmhdpAWKdy39el9Lds/viewformor you can find a hard copy pledge form at the Summers County Public Library. All you have to do is tell Jerry Beasley your name and contact information, what fund you wish to pledge to and how much per mile. When John and Beth finish their hike in late September all pledge donors will then honor their pledges and can write their checks made out to the Hinton Area Foundation and mail them to HAF PO Box 217, Hinton, WV 25951. Make sure you note on the check the fund you want your money to go to.
Date: 2014-03-11
To: Counting Down before Departure
Miles today: 0.0

We find ourselves going through the day saying "this is the last time I"... grocery shop, Read Aloud, dust, vacuum,...The excitement and anticipation is building. Do we have what we need in our packs? Will we be warm enough and have enough food?Are there ATMs along the way? How much cash should we take? What are we forgetting????I forget what I walked into the room to do, why should I remember everything I need in my pack... soooo excited Can't wait to meet everyone. We have been reading the trail journals and feel like we "know" everyone .
Date: 2014-03-12
To: Leaving my K9 Companion home...
Miles today: 0.0

This is Beth here tonight. As our departure date looms the excitement is overwhelming. I struggle knowing I am about to leave my beloved dog Spike, home for 6 months. I trust my parents more than anyone in the world to care for our pets but I feel so bad knowing this will be a hike he can't make with us. He tires too easily and is too heavy to carry. I wish I could explain to him, this particular hike is too long for him.I feel no less determined to make this trek. And for his safety, it will be without him.
Date: 2014-03-13
To: Last minute purchase, 2 ounces
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: scattered clouds

In an effort to manage our journal pages, we purchased a virtual keyboard offered by Brookstone. It is 2.1 ounces and amazing! It uses a laser to project the keyboard on a flat surface (tent floor) and there you have it. Once paired with your smart phone all you have to do is turn it on and use the projected keyboard like any "real" one. I was dubious until I tried it and now I am so happy at the ease of typing anything longer than a short sentence.Tick-Tock...
Date: 2014-03-13
To: Frequently asked questions
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

Here are five frequently asked questions of us:1. How many miles do you plan on hiking?We hope to hike an average of 15 miles per day over the course of the entire trail which is ~2180 miles.2. How heavy are your packs?J5's is about 35lb. and Beth's is about 25lb. This includes food for five days and water.3. Where will you be staying on the trail?We will be tenting, staying at trail shelters, hostels and an occasional motel/hotel to take showers, restock our supplies and do laundry.4. How much food to plan on carrying?We will probably take about five days worth of food, but that will depend on the distances between resupply points availability.5. Will you be traveling with anyone else?There will be other hikers on the trail, so we will never be totally alone. There will be days that we will be alone, but most of the time we will see other hikers every day. Also checkout The Appalachian Trail Conservatory links:About the TrailInteractive Trail Map
Date: 2014-03-15
To: Thanks to all
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: few clouds

We would like to thank all the wonderful people who have been behind us all the way with support and prayers.We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to the following:Ascension Episcopal Church for the wonderful "Going Away" evening pot luck dinner on Friday night 7 March.Summers County Human Society ACWP for the fantastic luncheon you gave for Beth.Summers County Library Adult Basic Education staff for the luncheon you gave John. I especially want to thank my boss Shalom , for letting me take off from my job for six months to pursue our dream trek.Our family, neighbors, and friends for taking in our horses, watching and staying at our farm and looking out after things.Lastly, I want to give a shout out to my "Read Aloud" fourth and fifth graders from Talcott Elementary School for being great students! To the fifth graders good luck at the Middle School and to the fourth graders, see you again next year.
Date: 2014-03-20
From: horse gap camp

To: poplar camp
Miles today: 34.1
Weather: clear sky

it has been a few days since we were able connect. We went off trail for the first time yesterday by staying at Blood Mountains cabins with hot showers and good meal in Blairsville GA. Today we had our longest hike to date 12.9 miles. we are at tent site called Poplar Gap.   We are in good spirits. Until the next time.
Date: 2014-03-25
From: Top of Georgia Hostel

To: Dick Creek Top of Georgia Hostel
Miles today: 25.5
Weather: snow

We took a day off today, a zero day, no miles. The weather was quite cold and wet with rain, snow and wind. Hiawssee, GA is a very friendly town. Southern hospitality at it's finest. Tomorrow we will be back at it and be in NC. Our next resupply will be in Franklin, NC. I hope my 4th 5th graders are doing well. How are our HAF and USNA 77 pledges doing?If you are thinking of doing the AT, you should seriously consider Top of GA Hostel. Bob, aka Sir Packs a Lot, is terrific and a triple crowner. Take care J5 and Dragon Lady
Date: 2014-03-28
From: Dick Creek Gap, GA

To: Winding Stair Gap, near Franklin, NC
Miles today: 41.2
Weather: light rain

The last 3 days have touch and go weather wise. We promise to get some photos uploaded. We have crossed into NC   We have now over 109 miles so far. We are now 100 milers! NC mountains are no joke! We should be in the Smokies in less than 10 days.
Date: 2014-04-01
From: Wasser Shelter

To: NOC
Miles today: 5.9

Thank you to everyone following and encouraging us We are at about 131 miles on the trail. We have had spectacular weather for two days and know it won't last but love it anyway. We got into the Nantahala Outdoor center around noon. We had time to shower, do laundry and eat before going to bed. We also want to mention we love all our wonderful fellow hikers.I might mention the wild hair look is the norm on the trail. And the heat brings out the funky smells.
Date: 2014-04-08
From: NOC

To: Gatlinburg
Miles today: 89.5
Weather: overcast clouds

Sorry for taking so long to update. We have out of reliable internet. We took the time to go off trail today to go into town to resupply and shower up. It has been cold and damp and after four straight days shelter living we needs a brake. We are making good time and have done 206.8 miles so far. It has been rough at times, but we are still enjoying the adventure meeting new people and seeing some beautiful landscapes. We hope to be out of the Smokies by Saturday the latest and be Hot Springs, NC by Monday or Tuesday. The 20 something's race by us doing their 15 plus miles per day while we do our 10 to 12 miles. However, we are getting stronger every day and expect our milage to go up. J5 can't believe he is the same person he was three weeks ago as we race up these mountains now. Dragon Lady is a monster with her up hill pace. Stay tuned.
Date: 2014-04-11
From: Gatlinburg

To: Interstate 40 and AT (Newport, TN)
Miles today: 33.2
Weather: broken clouds

The weather has been the best since we started nearly 3 and a half weeks ago. We are finally through the Smokey Mts. Tell my fourth and fifth graders that we have not seen any bears, but we did see cubs paw print. Our biggest problem we had so far was VERY loud snorer in last shelter we were in two nights ago. Now that we are out of Smokies we do not have stay in shelters any longer. We have done 240 miles so far and hanging in there. We expect to be in Hot Springs, NC by Monday. Spring may finally have come as we slept comfortably last night. Rain is in the forecast for Mon and Tue, so we may have zero day on Tue in Hot Springs. We have met wonderful people from all over; from Germany French Canada as well as many states. We met one of my Plebes from USNA 12th company class of 80 Lee B. Former USMC. Small world. We keep this journal up as often as we can get reliable connectivity. Loving the AT. J5 and Dragon Lady.
Date: 2014-04-13
From: Interstate 40 and AT (Newport, TN)

To: Hot Springs, NC
Miles today: 34.0
Weather: overcast clouds

We got into Hot Springs early evening (Palm Sunday) and taking a zero day. Hiking the AT sure makes you appreciate what our early Americans did to settle this land. We have every modern piece of gear and regular stop offs to shower and laundry. They had no such things. Just being able to get the weather would have been unheard of then. Hiking up Max Patch mountain on Sat was VERY hard, but the views were the best so far. We are expecting to pick up the pace more as we are growing stronger all the time. Doing 34 miles two days would have been unthinkable 4 weeks ago is something, if pushed, we can do now. Hope to hook with my brother in about 8 to 10 days (111 miles) at US19E for some trail magic. Today we are hooking up with a friend from home to do a little hiking together Dragon Lady will upload some photos later. Walking through miles of wild flowers is really neatHot Springs, NC is a nice small town like Hinton. We are staying at the Laughing Hearts hostel until the latest winter snow storm passes. Really now, will this weather ever get Spring? Everywhere we go the people are terrific. Until the next time, J5 and Dragon Lady.
Date: 2014-04-19
From: Hot Springs, NC

To: Erwin, TN
Miles today: 69.7
Weather: light rain

We pulled into Erwin, TN on 4/19 after doing over 20 miles ("ouch" from Dragon Lady's feet). In less than four days we made it from Hot Springs to here. We expect to make Elk Park, NC by Thur and hook up with my brother, who lives only 20 miles from the AT. Overstock.com has a special on rocks, roots and mud. Check back next week for deals for 2 days of good weather in a row. Send coupons for 60 degree days and 45 degree nights. ( LOL). We are getting stronger every day and are now averaging over 13 miles per hiking day. Life is good on the trail and our confidence is rising. Meeting new people has been fun and our routine now refined so everything is on automaticThat's it for now as we make ourselves north. Thanks for following us. J5 and Dragon Lady
Date: 2014-04-23
From: Roan, TN US 19E

To: Mountain Harbor B&B and Hostel
Miles today: 50.3
Weather: clear sky

The terrain and trail condition have been the hardest so far. We have seen our first deer on the trail. The views have been Magnificent!! While hiking into Roan, TN five AH-57 Army Kiowa scout attack helicopters flew over and circled doing drills over the high bales. I made sure they saw my Go Navy flag I have been carrying on my pack since the beginning. One help flew back over me and gave me a wave. Cool. My brother and sister in law are only 30 min away and are picking us up for the night. We will be back on the trail on ThurIt is neat to have done nearly 400 miles already. Just 240 more and we will be back home for a couple of days Hope those USNA and HAF pledges are still coming in.The Mountain Harbor B&B is fantastic!   Until the next time J5
Date: 2014-04-28
From: Mountain Harbor B&B and Hostel

To: Wilbur Dam Road
Miles today: 38.0

Dragon Lady here today. I am off the trail as of yesterday the 28th and seeing a doctor tomorrow the 30th. J5 and Captain Jake continue without me.So the hike has been fantastic but my feet have been rebelling more every day. The feet are excruciating and swollen every day with the pain becoming nearly unbearable after 10 miles every day. Discomfort is doable but the pain after 10 miles of very slow hiking is miserable. It has taken all pleasure out of the hike and slowed J5 and Captain Jake down too much. I am hoping the doctor has a magic wand and some way to make things better.In the mean time, the sights and scenery were and continue to be beautiful. As spring is fully upon us, the animals, birds and foliage are amazing. The daily changes, the activities, the smells and views are changing rapidly. As we hiked, the heat of the day could be felt building while still walking through cool spots on the trail. Kudos to the trail designers and volunteers who maintain and improve the trail!!Communications will be sparse with J5 but I will try to keep everyone up to date as much as possible. J5 will log on and update when possible.Fingers crossed I will get back out on the trail soon.