morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2018-08-23
From: Pinkham Notch, NH

To: Imp Tent Site and Shelter
Miles today: 13.1

Day 141.  Hiked 13.1 miles from Pinkham Notch, NH to Imp Tent site and Shelter. Hike began with very steep, very rocky, and very long 3000 foot climb up Wildcat Mountain.  The weather was clear and sunny, although extremely windy.  On the ascent to Peak E, I fell three times within the first hour and got some scraps, cuts, and bruises. We were rewarded with numerous scenic views of the surrounding mountains.  Just prior to lunch we reached Carter Notch Hut where I feasted on a hot bowl of soup, gingerbread cake, and coffee.  After lunch we began hiking again and I only fell a single time in the afternoon which I term a major accomplishment because of the numerous precarious and steep downhills!  We arrived at the shelter around 5:00 pm and were able to get floor space along with about a dozen other hikers.  After a quick dinner of peanut butter wraps and trail mix, I turned in for the night at 7:00 pm.  Hope the tired, old body will rejuvenate by morning. Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-08-24
From: Imp Tent Site and Shelter

To: Hogan Rd in Gorham, NH
Miles today: 8.7

Day 142.  Hiked 8.7 miles from Imp Campsite Shelter to Hogan Road in Gorham, NH. Out of the shelter at 0715 after quick breakfast of two PopTarts and a Payday candy bar.  Fairly steep ascent up Mt Moriah followed by equally demanding descent to Rattle River Shelter.  Although short, the Trail was very rough on my knees and hips from falls the day before.  We are now less than 300 miles to the end!  However, it was an easy stroll to US 2 parking lot and Trail Magic - pizza, salads, chocolate milk, and all kinds of other drinks.  The Six Amigos loaded up on Trail Magic and then called it an early day.  I immediately began to ice my aching joints and was thankful for a short day!  One item I neglected to mention on Day 141 was that my Trail Family surprised me with cupcakes for my birthday before we hiked. I really appreciated the thought and sentiment.  Oh, Blonde Lady was at Trails End for the Trail Magic also.  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-08-25
From: Gorham, NH

To: Gentian Pond Shelter
Miles today: 11.1
Weather: overcast clouds

Day 143.  Hiked 11.1 miles from Gorham,  NH to Gentian Pond Shelter. Passed 1900 official Trail miles and was treated to some outstanding views. The terrain was very mild for the White Mountains and we made excellent time to the shelter.  I did slip and fall for one last time in New Hampshire.  After a quick dinner, I climbed into my sleeping bag in the shelter and was treated to a great Mountain View under the full moon. Great day hiking.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-08-26
From: Gentian Pond Shelter, NH

To: Full Goose Shelter, ME
Miles today: 9.6

Day 144.  Hiked 9.6 really tough miles from Gentian Pond Shelter, NH to Full Goose Shelter, ME.  Entered Maine today, the final of 14 states on the AT!  New Hampshire was a very difficult state and I was anxious to leave.  However, Maine is proving to be the most difficult state. It has mud worse than Vermont, mountains more inhospitable than New Hampshire, and more flies and insects than Virginia and Tennessee combined!  Iron rebar rungs  are drilled into many rock faces to help you climb the Trail vice hike the Trail.  I was bushed when I arrived at the shelter around 5 pm. After a quick dinner of oatmeal and tuna, I climbed into my toasty sleeping bag for some much needed rest. Tough day is on horizon for tomorrow.  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-08-27
From: Full Goose Shelter, ME

To: Grafton Notch
Miles today: 9.7

Day 145. Hiked 9.7 miles from Full Goose Shelter to Grafton Notch.  This section of the trail contains Mahoosuc Notch which is easily defined as the most difficult OR the most fun mile on the Trail. I tried to think of this section as being an adult jungle gym or monkey bars. For 1.1 miles you are constantly crawling over, under, around, or through large boulders - many times dragging or pushing your backpack! In addition to being fun or difficult (your choice), it is dangerous. I was fortunate not to fall here, but I did suffer several cuts, scraps, and bruises to my legs and arms. My backpack also endured several years and I lost a water bottle to the Notch!  Immediately after finishing this trek, I was greeted with the second most grueling climb on the Trail, Mahoosuc Arm was an ascent of 1600 feet in less than .8 miles encompassing much hand over hand climbing.  Needless to say an exhausting, but good day!  The day was made great when I was met by Blonde Lady and good friend, Bob Gibson, at Trails End.  WOW!Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-08-28
From: Grafton Notch

To: East B Hill Rd
Miles today: 10.3
Weather: clear sky

Day 146.  Hiked 10.3 miles from Grafton Notch to East B Hill Rd.  Was fortunate to hike with USNA classmate and great friend, Bob (Hooter) Gibson today.  Also picked up new member of Tramily, Low Gear.  Lots of mud, rock slabs, and steep descents today.  No remarkable views today during this fairly quick hike.  Met by Blonde Lady at Trails End.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-08-29
From: East B Hill Rd

To: South Arm Road in Andover, Maine
Miles today: 10.1
Weather: clear sky

Day 147.  Hiked 10.1 miles from East B Hill Road to South Arm Road in Andover, Maine.  Hike immediately started out with steep 1500 foot ascent up Wyman Mountain which was followed immediately by steep descent into Sawyer Notch.  The steepest climb of the day commenced soon after to Moody Mountain. Challenging hike today but was made fun and enjoyable by hiking with good friend, Bob Gibson.  We hiked slow but steady, and only took minimal breaks and were able to complete the section in early afternoon.  Blonde Lady met the Amigos with cold soft drinks at Trails End.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-08-30
From: Andover, Maine

To: Oquossoc, Maine
Miles today: 13.3
Weather: clear sky

Day 148.  Start of Week #22 on the Trail.  Hiked 13.3 miles from Andover, ME to Oquossoc, ME.  Fortunate to hike all day with good friend Bob ¢Hooter¢ Gibson.  We Immediately began hike with a very steep 2200 foot climb up Old Blue Mountain in light rain and drizzle.  Of course all scenic views were covered by clouds.  But the reward for a steep ascent was a very steep descent, which I managed without a single fall!  I also was able to get ¢up close and personal¢with a grouse (I think).The next climb was up Bemis Mountain where I was treated to several views from a well constructed forest bench.  The descent down the mountain afforded me my first ¢fording¢ opportunity of a mountain stream which was about 75 feet across and a depth of about two feet.  Just for the record, the water was cold!  But I was met at Trails End by Blonde Lady who has a warm heart!  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-08-31
From: Oquossoc, Maine

To: Rangeley
Miles today: 13.1
Weather: few clouds

Day 149.  Hiked 13.1 fairly easy miles (for Maine, that is) from Oquossoc to Rangeley.  Passed four especially large ponds on today¢s hike and witnessed several vistas. Again, I hiked with good friend, Bob Gibson, who now has completed over 110 miles on the AT with me! Met by Blonde Lady at Trails End.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-01
From: Perham Stream southbound 

To: Rangeley 
Miles today: 16.5
Weather: light rain

Day 150.  Hiked 16.5 miles today but  about 1.0 mile was a blue blaze trail leading to the AT.  Hiked from Perham Stream southbound back to Rangeley.  Summited Saddleback Mountain, The Horn, and Saddleback Junior and witnessed many vistas. Met many NoBo friends as we transited south. Numerous section and day hikers were on the Trail since it was the weekend and good weather! Great day hiking especially since Blonde Lady was at Trails End!Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-02
From: Perham Stream

To: ME-27
Miles today: 16.8
Weather: scattered clouds

Day 151.  Hiked 16.8 fairly difficult miles from Perham Stream to ME-27 in Stratton.  Had an exhausting 2000 foot climb in about a mile in early afternoon that did a number on me!  However, I recovered (somewhat) to celebrate surpassing 2000 miles on the Trail late in the afternoon, which is a major milestone for me. Yeah!  Also saw some great vistas, which the camera does not do justice!  Blonde Lady met me at Trail¢s End.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-03
From: Stratton Pond

To: East Flagstaff Road
Miles today: 16.9
Weather: overcast clouds

Day 152.  Hiked 16.9 miles from Stratton Pond to East Flagstaff Road.  This hike was tough, annoying, meticulous, but also breath-taking.  Probably the most scenic views on the entire AT!  I finished the hike just before dark and was wiped-out physically and mentally.  My left knee gave me trouble all afternoon and caused me many missteps!  Had to climb over 3000 feet from the start to get to Bigelow Mountain and Little Bigelow, but vistas were superb! Trail Magic was at Trails End which was great because the Tramily missed dinner and we have an early start tomorrow for another 16 miler.  Blonde Lady was at Trails End and is always a welcome sight in my eyes!  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-04
From: East Flagstaff Road

To: Otter Pond Road
Miles today: 16.7
Weather: scattered clouds

Day 153.  Hiked 16.7 miles from East Flagstaff Road to Otter Pond Road.  I started off with Trail Magic at TrailHead - coffee, sausage & egg biscuits, donuts, fig newtons,  and Snickers.  I had to pinch myself to ascertain that I was on the Appalachian Trail today!  This was the easiest and best trail conditions that I have ever experienced on the AT, especially in NH or ME!  The weather was superb. The Trail surface had very, very few rocks, exposed tree roots, and black mud.  The elevations were minimal.  I had great views around Flagstaff Pond, Pierces Pond, East Carry Pond, and Otter Pond.  Finished hike in less than 7 hours with few aches and pains!  Blonde Lady even hiked-in about a mile to meet me!  WOW!Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-05
From: Otter Pond Road

To: Moxie Pond Road
Miles today: 15.3
Weather: clear sky

Day 154.  Hiked 15.3 miles from Otter Pond Road to Moxie Pond Road.  At mid-morning, had to catch a ferry (canoe) across the Kennebec River.  The river is too wide, too swift, and too deep for fording and the ferry is the only option. The Trail was annoying today because of the numerous exposed tree roots.  Had only several vistas today but did manage to finish the hike in mid-afternoon.  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-06
From: Moxie Pond Road

To: Shirley-Blanchard Road
Miles today: 18.5
Weather: overcast clouds

Day 155.  Hiked 18.5 miles from Moxie Pond to Shirley-Blanchard Road.  Started hike in thunderstorm and got soaked for about an hour and a half, but no one got hit by lightning!  Scenic views should have been observed at summit of Moxie Mountain but clouds covered the vistas.  Trail up Moxie Mtn was sheer rock but fairly easy to climb.  Trail paralleled numerous waterways today and crossed about twenty of different sizes.  Three water crossings required ¢rock-hopping¢ or fording. I was able to ¢rock-hop¢ two of them without getting too wet.  However, on the third crossing I just walked across the knee deep mountain cold water!  Trail terrain was very forgiving today and was able to complete hike in 8 hours. Met by Blonde Lady at Trails End.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-07
From: Shirley-Blanchard Road

To: ME Rte 15 in Monson
Miles today: 6.3
Weather: broken clouds

Day 156. "Nero"day today to get ready for the "100 Mile Wilderness."  Hiked 6.3 Miles in about two hours from Shirley-Blanchard Road to ME Rte 15 in Monson.  The terrain, elevations, and weather were all accommodating which allowed for a speedy hike. Passed by serene and tranquil pond but that was only major vista today.  Cell reception will be spotty (if it exists at all) in the 100 Mile Wilderness, so I may not be able to make daily posts to this journal. However, when I do have service and power, I will catch up with my journeys.  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-08
From: ME Rte 15 in Monson

To: Otter Pond
Miles today: 14.6
Weather: overcast clouds

Day 157.  Hiked 14.6 miles of official AT plus another mile of ¢ blue blazed¢ Trail to get to the AT from Monson to Otter Pond.  This is the first leg of the ¢100 Mile Wilderness¢ and I passed  by many rivers, lakes, ponds, streams, and other waterways.  Had to ford one river where ice cold mountain water was mid-thigh deep. Had rope to assist with water crossing.  Unfortunately, will have several more fording opportunities!  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-09
From: Otter Pond

To: Katahdin Iroworks
Miles today: 15.3
Weather: light rain

Day 158.  Hiked 15.3 miles (14.5 official AT mileage) from Otter Pond to Katahdin Ironworks.  Passed last 100 mile marker (2100 miles) today.  Hiked up five mountains: Barren, Fourth, Third, Columbus, and Chairback.  Most mountains peaks presented great scenic views.  The weather was superb!  The descent down Chairback was extremely steep and, in my opinion, extremely dangerous. It was physically and mentally exhausting for me!  Well, it was an adventure in the wilderness!  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-10
From: Katahdin Iroworks

To: Logan Brook
Miles today: 14.9
Weather: moderate rain

Day 159.  Hiked 14.9 miles from Katahdin Ironworks to Logan Brook.  Forded the West Branch of Pleasant River first thing in the morning when the water was the iciest and coldest!  River was 100 feet wide, ankle deep, and the river bottom covered with very slippery rocks.  Saw three moose as we approached the Trail Head today (bull, cow, & calf) along with 8 wild turkeys (and no, they were not the Tramily).  The Trail was a little more friendly towards me today.  Less rocks, less mud, less exposed tree roots, and a nice pine straw base.  These factors made for a quick and fairly easy hike.  We did climb four mountains today with limited views: Gulf Hagas, West, Hay, and White Cap.  White Cap was the last major mountain that we will climb before Katahdin and it did provide our very first view of our destination.  It was a moving moment to realize our goal is only 69 miles away and we can finally see it! We are about halfway thru the 100 Mile Wilderness.  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-12
From: Logan Brook

To: Potaywadjo Lean-to
Miles today: 21.3

Day 161.  In the 100 Mile Wilderness.  Hiked 21.3 miles from Logan Brook to Potaywadjo Lean-to.  Surprisingly we were treated to Trail Magic in the wilderness by two hikers who had just completed the thru hike and wished they had received Trail Magic while in the wilderness.  What a treat!  Highlight of today was listening to the eerie calls of the loon throughout wee hours of the night.  Absolutely stunning!Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-13
From: Potaywadjo Lean-to

To: Rainbow Springs Lean-to
Miles today: 18.2
Weather: overcast clouds

Day 162.  Still in the 100 Mile Wilderness as I start Week #24 and my final week on the Trail.  Hiked 18.2 miles from Potaywadjo Lean-to to Rainbow Springs Lean-to. Passed lots of NoBo hikers today, all heading to Mt Katahdin.  As a matter of fact, we got our very first view of a Katahdin today, which was the highlight of the day!  The campsite was crowded tonight with about 15-16 backpackers.  Another tough day on the Trail and I was hungry tonight.  Dinner consisted of three packs of tuna that I ate in wraps, six wraps of peanut butter, three packs of oatmeal, three PayDay candy bars, two Carnation instant breakfast, a protein bar, and a Clif Bar (This lightened my pack considerably!).  Then off to bed and asleep by 7:30.  Unfortunately, the loons did not awaken me.  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-14
From: Rainbow Springs Lean-to

To: Abol Bridge
Miles today: 15.0
Weather: scattered clouds

Day 163.  Out of the 100 Mile Wilderness!  Hiked 15.0 miles from Rainbow Springs Lean-to to Abol Bridge.  Temperatures climbed today which made hike a bit more challenging.  Saw some nice vistas as we completed the wilderness portion of the Trail.  Got several other views of Mt Katahdin which we will scale/hike on Sunday or Monday!  Met by Blonde Lady once again.  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-15
From: Abol Bridge

To: Katahdin Stream Campground
Miles today: 9.9
Weather: light rain

Day 164.  Hiked 9.9 miles from Abol Bridge to Katahdin Stream Campground.  Trail was flat, pretty much unobstructed, and fast. Viewed both Big and Little Niagara Falls and crossed several large brooks and streams.  Registered to climb Mount Katahdin on Sunday at Baxter State Park.  Camped at Baxter on Saturday night (last night in tent on AT) and the stars were absolutely magnificent due to no light pollution.  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-09-16
From: Katahdin Stream Campground

To: Mount Katahdin!
Miles today: 5.2
Weather: overcast clouds

Day 165.  Katahdin at last!  Official Thru-Hiker!  Journey¢s End! A Great Adventure!  Hiked the final, brutal 5.2 miles to Mount Katahdin.  It was a steep ascent, mostly in the fog and clouds but well worth it.  Thank you to all of you who followed my adventure and especially those of you who kept me in your prayers.  Happy Trails.Be sure to check out all the photos I¢ve posted on trail journals under ¢photos¢.
Date: 2018-08-29
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: scattered clouds

Every journey begins with a decision, a direction, and a step. 30 days from now I'll be beginning my journey north from Amicalola Falls to Springer Mountain, heading north. This is my first section hike and I'll have 17 days to get as far north as I can. Hopefully at least up to Fontana Dam.  When I describe what I'm doing to people, the reaction is mixed some. Most are encouraging, even if they can never see themselves carrying a pack, carrying food, water, tent, sleeping bag, and walking for miles and miles up and down each day. A few hardy souls seen envious and have a dreamy look in their eyes about the idea of it all. Others simply look at me like I'm talking about swallowing a spider. Most think it's a bad idea that I'm going alone.Of course I won't be completely alone. There will be periodic cell service to touch base with friends and family far away. Plus there are many people on the AT and I'm not expecting a day to go by when I won't run across others on the trail. But I'm ok being by myself too. I'm really looking forward to being present for this experience and enjoying the challenge and beauty of the trail.I love to hike and to backpack. Last summer my son and I did Philmont. And it was hard, and painful for my son when he twisted his ankle on the trail. But it was beautiful and peaceful too. He didn't want to go backpacking this summer, so I planned this just for me. I need time away from the city, away from the tasks that consume too much of my time and attention. I need time in the trees, in the mountains, under the stars, freeing my heart, feeding my soul.  I have most of my gear, but am still changing a few things out. Found out this past weekend that my hiking pants are drying slower than I like, so I'm going to replace them with something lighter that dries quicker. Otherwise, it's a matter of weighing things, culling non essentials, packing some boxes to stage along the way, and of course doing the physical prep to prepare for the large increase in steps and the ups and downs that dominate so much of the AT.
Date: 2018-09-09
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

I'll be on the trail in 19 days. I've packed, unpacked, repacked, unpacked my pack. I've shed some things to free up space and lighten the weight. I have a big pack, but I really don't want it stuffed full.  I've had to take a break from physical preparation due to some minor medical procedures, but I started back up again this weekend, with pack hiking and yoga. I'm sore, but better to be sore now than essentially disabled on the trail. I'll ramp up my stairs and my cardio this week. It's still real hot and humid in Houston so I'll probably just carry the pack in the heat a couple of times over the next week.  I'm starting to get excited and am working on boxes I'm going to ship myself. I'm sure the next 2+ weeks are going to pass quickly.
Date: 2018-09-19
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

My thoughts and prayers go out to those affected by Hurricane Florence. I can't imagine being on the trail during this event. I hope everyone is dry and safe. I see that the closed portions of the AT opened back up on yesterday, which is wonderful.I travel to Amicalola Falls via Atlanta on the 9/27. I'll probably walk up to the falls in the afternoon sans pack. Friday 9/28 is my first trail day with Springer Mountain as the destination.  I have everything well organized and am sending myself some packages at a couple of places along the way.I'm getting really excited and looking forward to this time in the woods, and the people I'll meet. At this point I'm wishing my 17 days on the trail would be longer. We'll see if I still feel the same as I head north....
Date: 2018-09-27
From: Houston

To: Amicalola Falls
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

I traveled today from Houston to Amicalola Falls via Atlanta.  It was freaky, but while waiting for my shuttle driver, Ron Brown, I saw two people I knew:  1) Peggy Garret a nearly blind woman who who I had volunteered with, and Elizabeth Chu, who married a college3 friend,  What a nice surprise and treat. Ron Brown has previously been a Ranger at Amicalola Falls and he was a wealth of information.  I learned for example that water will be an issue during some stretches which i hadn¢t expected.  I also learned that lots of soggy hikers were coming off there trails which was completely understandable as it was raining hard on us.  I also heard many bear sighting stories and got real world advice in what to do, and not do.  This led to my first trail magic experience.  Trail magic is when someone does something kind for an AT hiker.  In this same when Ron learned I¢d forgotten my bear whistle, he gave me one.  Thanks Ron.It was a great day to not be on the trail.  It¢s rained most of the time I¢ve been here.  I¢m in a cabin below the falls.  I walked up to the base of the falls and then up to the lodge.  I was shockingly winded.  I can see why, when I checked the Fitbit, I¢d climbed over 80 floors.  Tomorrow morning I get to do that with a loaded pack!  I¢ll do that, then have breakfast at the lodge before continuing on the trail.  I¢m hoping tomorrow is drier than today but regardless of the weather, I¢m on the trail.Take care my friends.Steps: 12,300.  Floors Climbed:  93