morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2017-04-21
From: Low Gap

To: No Business Knob Shelter
Miles today: 14.6
Weather: broken clouds

Had a bit of rain around 4 am, but when I woke up at 6 am, it had passed. Tent was wet of course, so tried to shake it out the best I could.   Another typical day of having one major climb, today being Big Bald. Weather was cloudy, windy and cool, but good for the uphill.View from Big Bald wad good and a 360 degree view showed sunshine every where except over me! On the climb down, had a trail magic cooler of Powerade from Hawk. Later at Spivey Gap had some excellent trail magic from 2016 thru hiker Badger.Had a thunder shower on the way to the shelter, so took cover under some Mtn Laurel. Arrived st the shelter first, but it has gradually filled. Frozen is here and so is Gray Eagle who I have not seen since the approach to Hot Springs. Many people kept going the 6 miles to Erwin, but I am planning to get in early to do a nearo. Based on the weather for the 23rd, I may check into some slackpacking for that day.
Date: 2017-04-22
From: No Business Knob Shelter

To: Erwin, TN
Miles today: 6.1
Weather: moderate rain

Had a couple of thunder showers last night, but by the time I got up, no rain. However, like the past few mornings I am packing a wet tent. This is my shortest hiking day so far. On the way to Erwin, the sun tried it's best to come out. Sadly, the clouds took over by the time I got to Uncle Johnny's.   Stopped into their outfitter store; they have a good selection and I purchased a new pillow since my other one had a slow leak.   My pillow is one luxury I take since it is not as lumpy as my clothes. Walked the mile to Cantarroso Farm and was greeted by Mike. He said he could have picked me up, but the road walk was not bad. Mike gave me the tour and I was really impressed. This is a great place to stay if you remember the first season of SNL. I met his wife Peggy (Queen Bee) and together they are wonderful hosts and it is a scenic location right on the river. Mike set me up with some loaner town clothes while mine were being washed.   After a shower. Mike drove me to town where I had lunch at the Hawg 'n Dawg. Several local day hikers I saw on the trail today recommended it. I met Lou the owner and he was quite hospitable.   After lunch, headed to CVS and Food Lion to resupply.   Mike picked me up there since he also shuttled Rocket Man there. Back at the hostel saw Jayhawk who I crossed paths with since Fontana along with Growler and Mile Back. Mike and Peggy invited us all in for an evening social gathering where many trail stories were told, some actually may be true.Because of the rain forecast for tomorrow, I arranged a slack pack from Iron Mtn Gap back to Erwin.   I was able to dry my tent in Mike's garage so wanted to keep it in that condition at least one day. Will stay here tomorrow night as well.
Date: 2017-04-23
From: Erwin, TN

To: Iron Mountain Gap
Miles today: 20.2

The weather forecasts were correct and it was a miserable day with rain and a cold wind. I had already planned to do a south bound slack pack from Iron Mtn Gap back to Erwin.Mike from Cantarroso Farm dropped me off at the Gap about 7:30. The clouds were thick and really did not have a view all day. The trail was in decent condition most of the day with the exception of running water on both sides of Unaka Mtn. Although there were not views, it was still neat to walk through the Spruce forest on top of Unaka. The thick forest actually cut down on the rain and wind.Saw very few hikers on the morning, but did see Squeaks, Gray Eagle and B.R. who were all heading to the next hostel for shelter from the rain. B.R. was surprised to see me going southbound and said "What the #&@% are doing southbound?" I explained I wimped out for the day when he admitted he was heading for the hostel which is unusual for him.After a quick lunch, started back and ran into many more hikers. The weather was much warmer with less wind as I approached Erwin. Since there were no views, I was doing some fast hiking when the trail permitted. The slickest areas were definitely the exposed roots.Got back to Cantarroso Farm much sooner than expected, so went with Jayhawk and Growler to the Mexican restaurant for dinner.After dinner, spent some time organizing my gear. Mike or Peggy will take ke back to Iron Mtn Gap in the morning where I will resume my northbound journey.
Date: 2017-04-24
From: Iron Mountain Gap

To: Stan Murray Shelter 
Miles today: 19.7
Weather: moderate rain

Peggy from Cantarroso Farm drove me back to Iron Mtn Gap to resume my northbound journey.   The weather actually started out nice, so I was hoping the rain was over. My hopes were dashed. The weather was nice up to Little Rock Knob, but soon after some photo ops, the clouds rolled in. There was a light mist and occasional rain since we were actually in the clouds.   I was still making good time since there were no views worth stopping. I got to Roan High Knob shelter which was my planned stopping point, however there was still daylight, so decided to push forward.I soon regretted that decision because a mile from the shelter, the trail became a quagmire of slick, thick mud. I had to slow my pace down to prevent slipping. I passed through part of the Roan Highlands, of course the visibility was nonexistent plus there was no protection from the cold rain.I got to the Stan Murray shelter which had space, so decided I would sleep there instead o setting up the tent.   The only person in there was Double Knot, a section hiker from Toronto. After a quick meal and some hot chocolate, hit the sleeping bag about 8:15 pm. Plan to be at Mountain Harbor Hostel tomorrow night, ready to wash and dry some gear.
Date: 2017-04-25
From: Stan Murray Shelter 

To: US 19E
Miles today: 11.1
Weather: overcast clouds

Double Knot was up and out early, he warned me the night before, but I did not have an issue since I am an early riser as well. Gathered my gear and started out. The first section was still very muddy, plus had to deal with the constant drizzle. Passed through more highlands, no view until a bit of clearing toeatd the end.Finally got out of the mud and lower in elevation so no more drizzle and the temperature warmed a bit. Got to US 19E and headed to Mountain Harbor. Got checked in, washed some clothes and had a hamburger from the food truck/trailer they now have on site. After a shower, did my resupply and the sun came out!! Was able to dry my pack and boots (a little). Had some chicken for dinner and as I write this, have a nice blue sky up above. Life is good!
Date: 2017-04-26
From: US 19E

To: Mile 410.4 Campsite
Miles today: 16.7

No signal on the 26th, so updating my journal using Bear Mtn Resorts hiker computer. Had the big breakfast at Mountain Harbor this morning. It was fantastic! An AYCE buffet with eggs, ham, several potato dishes, French toast with local honey, pastries, fruit, etc. Needless to say, had plenty of energy starting the trail. The day started out nice and sunny and continued with a clear, blue sky all day. There were several great views along the way including the open ridge at mile 396.1. The trail was still a bit muddy in certain spots, but the sections exposed to the sun were drying out quickly.I did take the side trail to Jones Falls and it was well worth it. Of course the water flow was good with all the rain the previous 3 days. After Jones Falls it was mostly up and down, with no major climbs.At Walnut Mountain Road, Leapfrog, thru hiker class of 2016, was providing trail magic with sodas, Gatorade, fruit and snacks. Nice kid from Ohio...yes he is a kid, currently only 19 and did his thru hike at 18 right after high school (sorry if you are offended Leapfrog). He supplied us with some useful information for the trail ahead.Arrived at the campsite and set up tent. Only had Ramen for dinner because of the big breakfast and trail magic. I did also consume a jumbo Honey Bun I purchased at Mountain Harbor and washed it down with some hot chocolate.
Date: 2017-04-27
From: Mile 410.4 Campsite

To: Black Bear Resort
Miles today: 8.0
Weather: moderate rain

Last night was really windy. I checked for dead trees and widowmakers before setting up my tent, but got a bit nervous a few times last night when I heard trees crashing to the ground in the distance. Glad to report nothing in my campsite. I had originally planned to stop at Black Bear resort so a short day today. I also have been having trouble with my knee, so hoping to give it a little rest. Also, day started cloudy and there is a thunderstorm in the forecast, so staying dry another night will be nice.Even though it was cloudy, there were still some nice views. Saw Fry and Brain who I had met the day before. No major climbs this morning and got to Black Bear Resort about noon. I had reserved a bunk, but decided to upgrade to a cabin so I could spread my gear out. Hunter had already arrived; I first met him at Mountain Harbor and we hiked together for a bit yesterday (he is a retired educator from New Hampshire). Last night, he pushed on the couple of miles to the shelter and got up early to head here. He also opted for the cabin.Stephanie got me checked in and Hunter and I shared a laundry load. They have a good resupply selection here along with the typical microwave food, pizza with pizza oven, drinks, etc. I had planned to take 4 days to get to Damascus from here. I thought about pushing the miles and trying to make it in 3 days, however will wait to see how my knee holds up. If I go for 4 days, I'll plan to do a nearo in Damascus (which wouldn't be the end of the world).
Date: 2017-04-28
From: Black Bear Resort

To: Vandeventer Shelter 
Miles today: 17.7
Weather: broken clouds

Got an early start this morning from Black Bear Hostel.   Nice section along the river to begin with, then a 3 mile climb. The grade on the climb was good both up and down. Stopped by Boots Off hostel to get my passport stamped and filled up with water.There was a bypass on the trail since part was flooded by the lake. Even with the bypass, there were 2 sections that required a walk around. Got to the dam...was impressive. The rest of the afternoon was very warm. Drank 4 liters during the day, but still low urine output. Filled up with water at spring 1.7 miles from shelter; glad I did because water source at shelter very difficult to get to (steep). Good group at shelter. Met Bisquick, then Gray Eagle, Hunter and Growler here along with others. Great view at shelter and have phone service, so able to call my wife.
Date: 2017-04-29
From: Vandeventer Shelter 

To: Abingdon Gap Shelter 
Miles today: 22.7
Weather: clear sky

Planned to do some big miles today to make the hike into Damascus a bit shorter.  The terrain started out with rolling terrain without major up and downs and was able to make good time early.  Weather started to get hot so really started to increase my water intake.   Like the day before, I was really concerned about getting enough water and decided to stop often for water breaks.  I have been using a bladder and sipping gradually,  but I have decided I need to add a 500 mL bottle to "guzzle " at lunch to increase my input on these warm days.The last 4.8 miles was tough mainly because of the heat and fatigue.  Arrived at the shelter about 6:30 pm; the shelter was empty, but with nice weather decided to go with a tent.  As soon as I got to the shelter, I immediately downed a litter of water.  Gray Eagle and Growler also showed up and we are primed to hit Damascus tomorrow.
Date: 2017-04-30
From: Abingdon Gap Shelter 

To: Damascus 
Miles today: 10.4
Weather: overcast clouds

A little sore this morning because of the long miles yesterday,  but after breaking camp and starting to hike, the soreness worked out.  More rolling terrain and some climbs, but overall not bad.  Hit the Virginia state line and had to take advantage of the photo op.  Got into Damascus about noon and checked into The Place and took advantage of their town clothes.  Gray Eagle and I dropped our dirty clothes off at Crazy Larry's to be washed and then ate lunch at Mojos.Did my resupply at Food City, then back to the Hostel to shower and to check equipment. B.R., Primo and Hunter were also at The Place and we decided to take Gray Eagle to Bobo McFarland's for his "hiker retirement party" from the Marines.  Growler also joined us; he was staying at a B&B.  Back to the hostel where it was nice and quiet, which is one reason I wanted to stay there.
Date: 2017-05-01
From: Damascus 

To: Lost Mountain Shelter 
Miles today: 15.8
Weather: moderate rain

Up about 6 am this morning at the Methodist hostel.  Had breakfast with Gray Eagle and Primo at Mojos since it was on the trail out.  We followed the Virginia creeper trail for the stretch out of Damascus,  then hit the AT with a somewhat difficult climb.  The trail leveled out, but then the clouds and a few rain drops rolled in - this was expected based on the weather forecast. Approached Saunders shelter and made the short walk there for lunch since the weather seemed to be getting worse.  Gray Eagle and Weatherman also showed up and there were some heavier showers so we were glad we were in the shelter. I waited until I thought the thunderstorm was over, but no such luck.  I got hit again with more rain off and on most of the afternoon,  but as I approached Lost Mountain Shelter,  the weather cleared and the sun came out.  Gray Mountaineer was at the shelter,  but tenting  (I haven't seen him since Hot Springs).  Shelter was empty and in nice condition,  so decided to stay "indoors" tonight.
Date: 2017-05-02
From: Lost Mountain Shelter 

To: Wise Shelter 
Miles today: 17.5
Weather: scattered clouds

A bit cool this morning,  but slept well last night.  Had a quick breakfast and was hiking by 7:30 am.  The weather was perfect for the climb  up to Mt. Rogers, good views and the cool weather prevented becoming overheated.  Only complaint is that some of the rocky areas of today's hike made for slow going.  Many areas to roll an ankle or fall if you were not careful.Saw many ponies going through Grayson Highlands,  many just ignored the hikers.  Speaking of hikers, many day hikers out today.Gray Eagle, Gray Mountaineer,  B.R.  Weatherman and I crossed paths much of the day.  We eventually arrived at the Wise Shelter,  but decided to hike the extra quarter mile so we could tent and be "legal" and off state park property.
Date: 2017-05-03
From: Wise Shelter 

To: Trimpi Shelter 
Miles today: 20.1
Weather: clear sky

Cool again this morning but slept well again last night partly due to the sound of the nearby stream serenading us all night.  Another beautiful day with blue skys which was nice since we went through part of the Highlands again today.  I saw a couple of ponies,  but that was all.OK climb to Chestnut Flats was the big elevation gain for the day.  Met a section hiker from South Carolina who actually lives quite close to me - T Man.  We had a nice conversation.  Arrived at the shelter and there were 2 section hikers in the shelter, a father/son duo.  B.R. continued hiking, but Gray Mountaineer,  Gray Eagle, Weatherman and myself set up tents.  After a late dinner, everyone was out....it had been a long day.
Date: 2017-05-04
From: Trimpi Shelter 

To: Chatfield Shelter 
Miles today: 16.8

Earlier in the week, rain was forecast for last night, but woke up to a dry tent which is nice.  Gray Mountaineer was able to get an updated forecast last night which called for rain late this afternoon or tonight.  My goal was to get a space in Chatfield Shelter tonight because of the rain. I was the last NOBO out of camp today and enjoyed the hike.  The sun actually peaked out a few times, but dark clouds were to the south and west.  Up high, the wind was cool and strong,  but no rain.  Got to Partnership Shelter and 8 Track was there doing some trail magic with breakfast burritos.  He is thru hiking, but taking a few days off due to an injury.  Also went by the Mt Rogers visitor center and had a Dr. Pepper. Continued hiking and had cell service on Glade Mtn where I received a text from Gray Eagle who said there were 2 spots left in the shelter.  Got to the shelter about 4:30 pm just when the rain started.  There are 2 section hikers at the shelter along with one other thru hiker in addition to Gray Eagle and myself.  In true hiker midnight fashion, we are all tucked away about 8 pm.  Short day tomorrow as I head to Atkins/I-81 where my wife will pick me up for a trip to my son's graduation.
Date: 2017-05-05
From: Chatfield Shelter 

To: Atkins I-81
Miles today: 4.6
Weather: heavy intensity rain

Rained hard last night, but by morning the rain was gone.  Short hike today as I am going to meet my wife and will be off the trail for a couple of weeks to attend my son's graduation.  Sun actually came on the way to the one room school house and while there, took advantage of the trail magic at the school house supplied by a local Methodist Church.  Since my wife would not be at I-81 until after 1:00 pm, I decided to wait until 10:00 am when the main museum opened and spend time there.  Gray Eagle headed to the interstate since he was headed to Marion to rent a car so he could also head home for a few days to attend his granddaughter's birthday party.  The museum tour was a good way to kill some time.  After the tour, I saw Growler at the one room school house.  He is meeting his daughter tomorrow and staying in Atkins for the night, so my wife will give him a ride to his hotel.  Started the last 2.7 mile hike to the interstate with plans to eat lunch at The Barn.  Growler was right behind me and we both had the Hiker Burger while waiting on my wife.My wife arrived about 1:30 pm and after taking Growler about 3 miles to the motel, my wife and I headed down the road and stayed in Hillsville, VA for the night.  My plan was to go to the REI store in Charlotte the next morning to replace/upgrade some equipment.  After a shower, headed to Shoney's where they had the AYCE seafood buffet for only $7.99 since it was before 6:00 pm. They may have lost money on me tonight!
Date: 2017-05-06
From: Atkins I-81

To: Oklahoma
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

I will be off the trail for a couple of weeks as I head west to Oklahoma to attend my son's graduation.  It will be a chance to see my whole family as we will  have a reunion of sorts for 5 days.  It will be nice to spend time with my "biological" family, but I will certainly miss the folks I have had the opportunity to hike with the last 4 weeks.  My plan is to attend trail days in Damascus on Saturday, May 20th, then resume my hike on May 21st from I-81 at Atkins.
Date: 2017-05-20
From: Damascus 

To: Damascus 
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

The trip to Oklahoma went great.  Graduation went well and it was nice to have my whole family together.  I spent 2 hectic days at home going over equipment and doing some minor car and house maintenance before heading back to Virginia. My support team/wife and I spent the day in Damascus for Saturday's festivities.  It was my first trip so enjoyed meeting some of the book authors and visiting the vendor displays.  I took part in the hiker parade,  it was pretty cool...and I mean that figuratively and literally.  It was neat to see people I have met on the trail, plus it started raining about half way down Main Street so the temperature seemed like it dropped 20 degrees!  The number of hikers from all classes was impressive. Rain is in the forecast for tomorrow,  but I am ready to start hiking.  I have shed my cold weather clothing and switched to my Phantom 45 degree sleeping bag.
Date: 2017-05-21
From: Atkins I-81

To: Knot Maul Branch Shelter
Miles today: 14.7
Weather: scattered clouds

Had breakfast at the hotel in Abingdon with my support team/wife.  The forecast called for rain, and it was correct with a steady drizzle.  We drove the 40 miles or so up to Atkins.  It really started to kick in that I might be away from home four months.  I tried not to think about that and focused on the adventure ahead.We stopped at the Exxon, and got my gear together.  It was sad to see my wife drive away, but after a couple of miles of hiking, I started to get back to "AT mode".  The constant rain also reminded me to stay focused on the trail.  The rain did stop for a while,  but started back before I got to the shelter.  I was fortunate to get a space since I really did not want to set up my tent in the rain.  There was a good group at the shelter, primarily those of the classic rock era, so the conversation was enjoyable.  This really helped me transition back to trail mode and helped the homesickness that was creeping in.After dinner, we were all tucked away by 7:30 pm.
Date: 2017-05-22
From: Knot Maul Branch Shelter

To: VA 623
Miles today: 15.6
Weather: overcast clouds

It rained hard last night off and on, but by 6 am the rain had stopped although it was still overcast .  Started hiking around 7:30 am with the now typical down, up, repeat.  Was fortunate at the first road crossing to have some trail magic breakfast provided by Bill Murray (trail name,  but there was a resemblance).  He was there to support his daughter who is doing a thru hike.The climb up Chestnut Knob was a steady up and challenging.  Initially it was very foggy at the higher elevations.  I arrived at the shelter and had a small lunch along with others.  While I was in the shelter, the weather cleared and I was greeted with a great view.  I called the Saint Luke's Hostel from the shelter to arrange a pickup and stay.The weather became very nice the last few miles with some good views from the ridge.  I also had AT&T cell service all day which was great.  Bill from the hostel picked me up and I was able to shower, wash clothes and dry out some gear.  As I write this, I'm looking out the picture window of the hostel with Chestnut Knob to the left and a glimpse of sunset to the right.  Life is good.
Date: 2017-05-23
From: VA 623

To: US 52, Bland
Miles today: 15.8

Cloudy with some rain in the morning, but then heavy rain as I approached Bland.  The trail today was nice and most of it appeared to be on an old road bed.  Even with the rain the last few days, there were only a few muddy areas.Called and made a hotel reservation for Bland so was able to sleep dry and dry out some gear.
Date: 2017-05-24
From: US 52, Bland

To: VA 606
Miles today: 18.4
Weather: light rain

No rain this morning, but overcast.  I had a chance to spread out my gear in the motel room to dry, but more rain is in the forecast later today. After crossing Interstate 77, hit the trail with a fairly tough climb but then a fairly nice grade.  There is also more mud on the trail vs yesterday.  I called to make  a reservation for Dismal Falls Retreat because of the heavy rain expected tonight. Met Diciple by the powerlines at mile 604.4 and we hiked in while having a nice conversation.  Patrick also showed up when we got to VA 606 and we headed to Trent's for pizza.  At Trent's,  there were several other hikers also having dinner.  While we were eating, the rain started coming down in buckets and did not let up.  I put on my rain gear and headed to my room, which was about 0.5 miles away.  Christian,  the owner of the retreat, was very hospitable and her place is very nice.  There was a TV at the retreat so was able to watch the weather news and was very glad to be inside since the rain was expected most of the night.