morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2009-04-02
From: Rock Gap Shelter

To: Wayah Shelter
Miles today: 14.8
Weather: light rain

The shuttle departed the Budget Inn a little after 9 AM. As we moved out of town a light rain began. We were dropped off where we were picked up yesterday. I changed into my rain gear and started the days hike at 10 AM. The plan was to hike 15 miles to Wayah Shelter. The terrain would make this a difficult hike partial only if the rain began around noon. We hiked till 5:30 PM and as we reached the shelter a light rain set in. I made camp in the rain. Supper was a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with coffee, protein shake and pretzels for dessert. I took as many pictures as I could today. The observation tower at Wayah Bald was to foggy to allow any view. So I took pictures of the tower. It was a difficult hike today and I feel tired as I write today's journal entry. It was mostly grey today but I decided to focus on achieving the days objective rather than allowing the poor weather to affect my mood and mindset. I can't believe I carried a jar of peanut butter, jelly and a loaf of bread so I could satisfy a craving for a sandwich. What am I going to do with the rest of this stuff. Make sandwiches for the bears I suppose. to maintain a positive attitude in a dismal situation is a character trait I respect. Today I've tried to do just that. Rain tomorrow- Great.Hello everyone back home and goodnight.
Date: 2009-04-03
From: Wayah Shelter

To: A. Rufus Morgan Shelter
Miles today: 12.2
Weather: light rain

Todays hike plan is to reach Rufus Morgan Shelter approx. 16 miles away. Most of the hike will be downhill. I will spend Saturday at the NOC trying to get my packpack altered, and other needed repairs to my tent. There should be a care package from home. I'll also recharge my battery in preparation for Sunday assent of 4750' mountain. A six mile hike that's up. Today the weather is grey but no rain. The trail was very muddy from all the rain. The misty, foggy conditions precluded the possibility of any vista pictures. The trees are barren and there is no wildlife. I'm reduced to taking pictures of the trail and some rocks of interesting color on the trail. As I was photographing some of the rocks a senior hiker overcame me and asked if I was taking pictures of wildlife. I said no I was taking pictures of rocks. He didn't say anything. He just looked. Through his eyes I could read his mind. I'll wager money he thought there are many varieties of people and before me I have a perfect specimen of one such variety. We smiled and exchanged pleasant comments and off he went. I wish he had come upon me while I was urinating. It would have been equally embarrassing but he would have understood without the need for explanation. Later in the day the sun emerged and burned the fog. I was able to take some pictures more to my suiting. Shortly after I made camp at 5:30PM a heavy set young hiker approached and ask if I would convey to his friend behind him on the trail that "green algae"was going the extra .8 mile into town. The worst part is that the young man seemed genuinely pleased with his trail name. There are many varieties of people and here is a perfect specimen of one type. Goodnight to all.
Date: 2009-04-04
From: A. Rufus Morgan Shelter

To: Nantahala Outdoor Center
Miles today: 0.8
Weather: clear sky

Awoke at 6:30 and had coffee. Took my time braking camp and moving .8 mile into the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Met Matt and Luke at the outfitter and they invited me to stay with them in their cabin. I spent all day at the outfitter and laundry. I invited Luke and Matt for dinner. We had pizza. I went back to the cabin and packed my new backpack. It took several hours but I finally got everything in the pack. The NOC is a wonderful place especially for the kayakers. Laundry is done. I'm bathed, packed and fed. It's 9:30PM and the couch is waiting. At least its level.
Date: 2009-04-05
From: Nantahala Outdoor Center

To: Sassafras Gap Shelter
Miles today: 7.0
Weather: scattered clouds

Awoke 5:45 and had several cups of coffee. From the NOC to Sassafras Gap Shelter is only 7 miles but is is all up. NOC is 1740' and the Swim Bald is 4750'. The shelter is less than a mile past the top of the bald. I started my hike at 7:30 and arrived at the shelter at 11:30. I rested for an hour, contemplating whether to stick to the hike plan or advance to he next shelter. The problem is that my next resupply will be at Fontana Dam four days from today. From here to Fontana is two days hike. Linger here, linger there makes little difference. Today has been a beautiful day. I saw my first snake. Tried to take a picture but the disposable camera I purchased would not advance the film. No pictures will be taken between here and Fontana Dam. Tonight I will stay in a shelter for the first time. My first impressions are not positive. But rain is forecast for tonight and I will be dry in the morning.
Date: 2009-04-06
From: Sassafras Gap Shelter

To: Cable Gap Shelter
Miles today: 15.2
Weather: light rain

Today's hike started at 7AM. I had no set plan. I'm in no hurry to get to Fontana Dam. It rained last night but not as much as I expected. As I started my hike this morning I listened to the radio. The weather forecast is snow and temp low near 24 degrees tonight. I met a truck driver at a highway crossing around 11:30. He said the forecast is 4 to 6 inches of snow above 3000ft. and 1 to 2 inches below. I was thinking of making Brown Fork Gap Shelter. I was about 2 miles from that shelter when I realized the trail would be covered in snow. That shelter is 3720'. I decided to press on to Cable Gap Shelter about 8 miles from where I was. Less than an hour later the snow fall started. I hiked in the snow all the way to the shelter. I arrived there at 3:30. In certain areas the snow completely covered the grounds. The trail was barely visible. As I write this journal entry the ground is covered with snow and it hasn't stopped snowing. The shelter is 2880'. I feel for those hikers that were with me at Sassafras Gap Shelter. They didn't leave the shelter early enough to beat the snow. They will have a difficult hike tomorrow. I'm not sure shat my plans are for tomorrow. I'll see what the conditions are in the morning. I'm a half day's hike to Fontana Dam. The scene I'm looking at is beautiful. The mountains and trees covered in snow. A winter vision a Florida boy has not seen before. It is peaceful as light fades. All is well in my world and I hope all of you can say the same.
Date: 2009-04-07
From: Cable Gap Shelter

To: Fontana Dam Shelter
Miles today: 6.6
Weather: light rain

Woke up at 6:15 and had coffee in the sleeping bag. There's more snow on the ground than was expected. There are five of us in the shelter with three in tents. One of the other hikers took several pictures of the snow and said he would email them. All but two hikers geared up and departed the shelter for Fontana Dam about 7 miles away. I waited for an hour and followed. I figured they could find the trail and kick the snow. It worked very well. The snow was 8 to 10 inches deep with snow drifts up to 20 inches on the ridge. The winter scenes looked like post card images. I wish I had a camera. I reached Fontana Dam at 1:30pm. Just as I took by backpack off a truck with a couple of hikers offered to take me 2.7 miles to Fontana Village. After checking with the post office and purchasing some supplies, I checked in the local lodge. The view of the Smokies from the lodge is impressive. Hiking in the snow and seeing the winter scene all around was something that lifted my spirits and caused me to forget the cold and difficult footing on the trail. Today was a day like no other in my life and I did have a wonderful time. No more snow please, Good Night.
Date: 2009-04-08
From: Fontana Dam Shelter

To: Fontana Dam Shelter
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: few clouds

Started the day at 6:15. Took my portable stove, water and coffee and brewed coffee in front of the lodge. Drank the coffee in front of the lodge lobby and watched the Smokies as the sun rose. They were still snow covered. It was a sight. Went back to the lodge, packed my gear and set in front of the Post Office until the delivery truck arrived. I was afraid to ask of my package had arrive, but I did. The postal clerk smiled and said yes. Happy days! It took a while to load my pack. The out-fitter was next door so I purchased three cameras and a few items and a pair of hiking poles. At 2:30 the shuttle carried me back to the trail. I got my Smokey Mountain park permit and put my pack on. This pack must weigh 45 lbs. I lumbered 1.8 miles over to the shelter at the dam and set my tent. I have finally found a level tent site in the state of North Carolina. It's a concrete picnic table pad that has had the table relocated. I am overlooking the lake from a bluff 300 to 400' up. The smokies are in the background. When I got out of the shuttle I met a couple from Holland that are hiking the A.T. Ursula showed me how to set and hold the sticks and Mic-ha showed me how to use the sticks properly. She worked at a sporting goods store in Holland and he was an avid Nordic Skier. They were very interesting people and I delighted in our discussion. My good pack is so heavy it was difficult to string from a tree. Tomorrow, I cross the dam and enter the Smokies. You are required to stay at a shelter in the Smokies. My plan is to hike to Mollies Ridge Shelter 4570'. It's about 11 miles of hiking, mostly uphill and I'm loaded down more so than ever. today has been gorgeous and tomorrow is expected to be the same. My recent traveling companions left the lodge and went on to the Smokies today. A couple that are deaf, Kim from Atlanta and [Crank-Trail Name] is from California. They were a lot of fun and I hope I eventually catch up with them. Thus far, everyone I've met has been nice and fun to be around. I've had time to reflect on my trail experience and I can say that despite the weather and other problems I've encountered, I have had a memorable time. I do think the celibacy thing is a bit overrated. I'm going to stop writing now and watch the southern edge of the Smokies fade into night. All is well, wish the same for you.
Date: 2009-04-09
From: Fontana Dam Shelter

To: Mollies Ridge Shelter
Miles today: 11.3
Weather: broken clouds

Woke up at 6AM and had coffee in sleeping bag. Broke camp and hit trail at 8AM. The days hike was difficult, mostly uphill and the trail still had snow at the higher elevations. In the trail the snow had melted and was slush. When there was no snow there was plenty of mud. My feet were wet all day. However, it was not cold because the air temp was near 70 degrees. I made Mollies Ridge Shelter 4570' at 3:30PM and decided to stay. I was tired and I was worried about my feet. There was a park employee at the shelter briefing all the hikers about the park rules. He was very nice and we talked for a long time. I took several photos today. I met two Canadians at the shelter. I hope to make it to Derrick Knob Shelter tomorrow. I still don't have phone service but I'm told there is Sprint service in the Smokies. One of the hiker couples said they saw a bear earlier in the day. I looked for them but, didn't see any. I did see two hawks fighting in mid air. I also saw a large bird soaring. It was was black with white edged wings. Its supposed to rain tomorrow night and it could start earlier in the day. I hope not, but I don't get to vote on the matter. I'll sleep good tonight.
Date: 2009-04-10
From: Mollies Ridge Shelter

To: Derrick Knob Shelter
Miles today: 11.7
Weather: light rain

Awoke early as usual. When I went outside the tent I saw the town of Maryville aglow in the predawn darkness. It was a sight. Soon, I could hear thunder and I saw lightning in the distance. I couldn't tell if it was moving toward me. As first light appeared it was clear the storm was approaching. I quickly finished packing and as I mounted my pack lightning was very near. I had about a quarter of a mile hike up to a ridge then a two mile decent. As I started my hike the storm overcame me. Sight and sound were one and the rain was strong. If I could clear that ridge I felt I would be safe. I did and quickly moved downward. My goal was to reach Derrick Knob Shelter, some twelve miles away. The rain lasted about two hours, then stopped. The trail was awful. I hiked in mud or water up to my ankles. At eleven I stopped at Spence Field Shelter and checked my feet. They were wet but no blisters. I treated myself to a hot cup of coffee and an energy bar. Knoxville radio said a strong storm will hit them in two hours. I moved as fast as I could but it was difficult in the mud. I made it to Derrick Knob Shelter at 4:15. I quickly set my tent as the sky darkened and the wind picked up. Shortly the storm hit with lightning, heavy rain and strong winds. It lasted until 7PM. I finished supper and made final preparations for the evening. I hung the food bag- went for water- got tent set for darkness. It's dark now and I need to consider tomorrows hike plan. The forecast is for good weather Saturday and Sunday. I hope everyone back home is doing well. I'm dry and warm now and not far from sleep.
Date: 2009-04-11
From: Derrick Knob Shelter

To: Double Spring Gap Shelter
Miles today: 7.2
Weather: light rain

My hike plan was to leave Derrick Knob Shelter and travel to Double spring Gap Shelter. This only about 7.2 miles hike. The next shelter would be about 14 miles. Most of the hike will be uphill and the weather is fog and mist. I want the best weather for Clingman's Dome. So I'll plan to assent that Sunday morning. Clingman's Dome is the highest point on the A.T. I hope the skies will be clear Sunday. I've missed most of the designated vistas because of poor visibility. The forecast is good but then that was today's forecast. I must have injured myself yesterday in the mud. As I left camp this morning I noticed a pain in my left hip. I took a fall late in the day after dozens of near falls. I didn't feel any pain then or later that night. I sure felt it most of the day. There are more Canadians at this shelter than Americans. One southbound Canadian ask to take my picture. I guess he didn't have much of an opportunity to take pictures today either. I'm at 5500' and I think it will be near freezing tonight. I hope tomorrow is a pretty day. I would love to get some pictures. Tomorrow will be a better day.
Date: 2009-04-12
From: Double Spring Gap Shelter

To: Mt Collins Shelter
Miles today: 6.3
Weather: clear sky

This morning my boots were frozen solid. The condensation droplets inside my tent had turned to ice. When I bumped my tent ice dropped all about me. However, the sun was out and it was a beautiful Easter morning. I took several photos of the valley with the fog at the lower elevations. I made two cups of coffee and loaded my pack. I took a picture of a Canadian and he took mine. Off I went to Clingman's dome some 3.5 miles away. I took more pictures today than I have in the last week. At the tower on Climgman's Dome I was able to talk to Linda. That was a real treat. I hope I'll get cell service as I move north. My hip bothered me most of the day. I decided to end my hike at Mt. Collins Shelter. This is the 200 mile mark. The forecast for tomorrow is rain. I don't know how the trail will be with the rain but, it was starting to dry out today. Today was a great day to hike sunny, mild temperature, no wind and a lot of photo opportunities. I'm staying in the Shelter tonight. I would like to at least start the day dry. It won't last long but at least I won't have to load my pack in the rain.
Date: 2009-04-13
From: Mt Collins Shelter

To: Pecks Corner Shelter
Miles today: 14.9
Weather: overcast clouds

Slept in a shelter last night. it started to rain about 3AM. I don't know how cold it was but the wind blew in the shelter and I was cold all night. Left camp at 8:30. today was the pits, no sun, light rain, strong wind and a trail that was two to three inches deep in water. My feet were wet all day. If I stopped my whole body was cold within minutes. I reached Pecks Corner Shelter at 6:30. The hike today was 15 miles. There were no views due to the mist, rain, fog. I fought all day to keep a positive mindset but, it was difficult. The forecast for tomorrow is the same only a little warmer. I need to see the sun.
Date: 2009-04-14
From: Pecks Corner Shelter

To: Cosby Knob Shelter
Miles today: 12.9
Weather: moderate rain

Slept in tent last night. Awoke at 6:15 and had coffee and energy bar for breakfast. As I broke camp a light rain began. I hiked for several miles and then it stopped. I took pictures today. Mostly of the trail and mountain side shots. Had lunch at a shelter- Tri-Corner Knob- Just as I reached the shelter the bottom fell out of the sky. When I resumed my hike the rain stopped. Later, midafternoon the sun winked at me. I reached Cosby knob Shelter at 4:30. I was freezing. Set my tent and put on dry clothes got in my sleeping bag and made a cup of hot coffee. After several hours I tried my cell phone and to my surprise I was able to call home. I think I am just about in range. I am about eight miles from the northern boundary of the smoky mountain park. I'll try to stay in a hostel tomorrow night. A bath would be wonderful. I have not heard the weather forecast for tomorrow but I hope for sunshine on my last day in the Smokies.
Date: 2009-04-15
From: Cosby Knob Shelter

To: Standing Bear Farm
Miles today: 10.0
Weather: overcast clouds

I'm at Standing Bear Farm, a hostel two miles north of the Smoky Mountains. Today's hike was ten miles.   I met Dr. Perkins and his son Nate. They are from Tupelo, MS. I talked with them for nearly an hour this morning. He and his son are finishing a four day hiking trip in the smokies. He gave me some provisions, they had seriously overpacked for their excursion. Most of the hikers from the shelter are here. They needed a bath as much as I did. One of the unexpected pleasures of this trip has been the people I have met. I could spend hours talking with each of them. I have met people from Canada, Holland, England, New Zealand and from just about every state in the US. I have met people of all ages and both sexes. The local people have been very nice and have to a certain extent made up for the poor weather. This hostel is more country than I can describe but, the beverly hillbillies came to mid when I first saw this place. The folks that run this place are hikers and are very friendly. The weather forecast is good for the next couple of days. tonight I'll sleep in a bed in a barn that has a creek that runs under it.
Date: 2009-04-16
From: Standing Bear Farm

To: Roaring Fork Shelter
Miles today: 15.6
Weather: clear sky

Stayed at Standing Bear Farm last night. I didn't get much sleep but it was nice to get a bath, shave, and clean some of my clothes. I had to hand wash these and that's fine. Most of the younger hikers got drunk and as I write this journal entry they have not arrived at this shelter. (Roaring Fork Shelter). This shelter is 15.6 miles from the hostel (Standing bear farm). For these young hikers it would be a walk in the park. I had a great hike today. The weather was sunny all day and reached upper 60's after lunch. I saw my second snake today. It wasn't poisonous snake, but it did make me think. The highlight of today's hike was the view from Max Patch Mountain. I'm sleepy now and I hope I can get a good nights sleep. Tomorrow I plan to hike to the shelter just outside of Hot Springs, N.C. I'll walk in Saturday and get my resupply package at the post office. I'm sure I will stay Saturday night in town. Today was a perfect day in all respects. I hope all of you had as good a day. Good Night to all of you.
Date: 2009-04-17
From: Roaring Fork Shelter

To: Deer Park Mountain Shelter
Miles today: 15.6
Weather: clear sky

Today was a great hike. The weather was perfect sunny and yet not hot. I stopped several times just to relax and take in the sights. Today's hike was 15.6 miles from Roaring Fork Shelter to Deer Park Mtn Shelter. Most everyone has gone on to Hot Springs, NC because there is some sort of hikers feast. Someone is providing free food and yes free beer. I'll wait until tomorrow morning and enter town around 8:30. the post office is open from 8:30 till 10:30 on Saturday. I'm not sure if I will stay both Saturday and Sunday. The forecast is for rain Sunday. I'll make a decision late Saturday. Cell phone is still a problem. I talked to Alex while I was at the summit of Bluff Mtn but, here at the campsite there is no service. I hope all of you back home are doing well. I am ready for bed so I'll say good night.
Date: 2009-04-18
From: Deer Park Mountain Shelter

To: Hot Springs
Miles today: 3.2
Weather: overcast clouds

Awoke at 4AM. Internal Body clock was set for 5AM, I quess it needs adjusting. Had a leisurely time drinking coffee and looking at the guide book. At 6AM I started packing for my 3.2 miles hike down the mountain to Hot Springs, NC. It was so peaceful last night. The stars were especially bright, the air was cool but no cold. As I descended the mountain I could see a glow behind a mountain. I had two shots left on the disposable camera and I was afraid to use the last remaining film on a sunrise. When I got to town about 8:10AM I took two shots of the town. When the post office opened at 8:30AM I was first in line. They had my resupply package and I sent home my three cameras and my journal entries. The town is so crowded I had to rent a tent site. I took bath, shaved and washed some of my clothes at the laundry mat. I went to the dollar store and purchased peanut butter, jelly and bread. I guess I didn't learn mush from Franklin NC. I've been sitting at the campsite charging batteries, drying clothes and eating peanut butter sandwiches. I got my camera in the care package but noticed it needed charging. It has been a pleasant day, sunny mid 60's light breeze. I've spent my idle time reflecting on the hike and the people I've met. Today I especially miss good old Valparaiso and the people. I'll be so glad when I get regular cell service. In the mountain tops I get service but as I descend I lose service. The RV park I'm staying at is on the river and the sound mixed with the birds, trains and camper noise is distinct and relaxing. I'll leave in the morning to resume my hike. I'll climb to 3500 ft. and set camp tomorrow night. Forecast is for rain. I miss all of you and hope you are having a beautiful spring day.
Date: 2009-04-19
From: Hot Springs

To: Rich Mountain 
Miles today: 8.3

This morning it took some doing to get everything in my pack. When I lifted it I knew I had a workout waiting for me. This damn pack is heavier than I have ever had before. I guess it will be a real challenge today. As I left camp I took some photos of the tower and the river from the side of mountain. Then the rain started. I hiked through a light rain all day. I had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for lunch and supper. I reached the top of Rich mountain at 2:15 and set camp in a light rain. Around 5:30 the rain stopped and the fog lifted. I have cell service here at 3550'. I talked to Linda and then called Jeff. It was good to here their voices. I have good radio reception here so I should be able to get a weather report for the next several days. There wasn't much scenery after I got up the mountain. I did enjoy that hot cup of coffee I made after I set up camp. The next resupply point will be Erwin, TN. Light is starting to fade so I guess I should raise my food bag and make preparations for night. There is another tent on this campsite but I haven't seen any movement since I got here. I think he must be a night hiker. I'll know in the morning. Good night all and may the sun fill your day tomorrow.