morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2009-05-04
From: Quarry Gap Shelter

To: Ironmaster's Mansion, Pine Grove Furnace SP
Miles today: 17.3
Weather: light rain

It rained all night and was still pouring when we left the shelter this morning. I am talking rain of biblical proportions. The woods around us were under water and most of that water was taking advantage of the appalachian trail in its effort to reach the ocean. We had decided to try to make it to Pine Grove - as lately we've been feeling good at the end of the day. Little did I know that I'd be walking 17+ miles with eight pound water logged boots. It was too cold to stop hiking since there is no way to keep dry in conditions like we faced. We did manage to arrive at the hostel at 4PM - only to find nobody there. The sign on the door stated that the office opens at 5 but it really looked closed. We were cold and wet and you can't imagine how happy I felt when the host pulled into the drive. Since then we have showered, eaten, and washed clothes. I still feel cold even after two large cups of hot tea.This was our sixth day of hiking on this trip and everyone has been in the rain. The weather report calls for partly sunny skies - next Sunday. Every day until then the forecast calls for rain. We considered taking a zero here tomorrow but with a 60 percent chance of rain that sounds better than what we've had. We will attempt 15 miles tomorrow.This hostel is something special. There is a hidden room that was used as part of undergroung railroad. The host has been a big help and we had free use of the kitchen facilities.My boots are drying next to the baseboard heater. I should be all set to head out into tomorrows rain.Did I mention that under all that water there was some real nice trail today? The trees are just leafing out on the higher elevations. Dogwood and azalea are in bloom when not in danger of drowning....We hope to make it to Duncannon on Thursday and may take a zero day there. Ya'll have a goodnight,Lwop
Date: 2009-05-05
From: Ironmaster's Mansion, Pine Grove Furnace SP

To: Alex Kennedy Shelter
Miles today: 15.5
Weather: overcast clouds

At about 8:30 we headed out in a light drizzle - making it 7 days in a row of hiking in the rain. Before leaving I made us some pancakes and BBH made a pot of coffee. It was nice being warm and dry again even though we knew that wouldn't last. The hike started out in Pine Grove SP which during the warmer months is a busy place. It was almost deserted on this cold and rainy Tuesday morning. Shortly after PG we passed the halfway mark erected by Woodchuck. We took photos but it wasn't as exciting as in '04 when we were really at the halfway point of our hike. This time we were only 80 miles in. A short time later Squire caught up with us. He had spent the night with trail angels and got to watch the hockey game he wanted to see. He remained with us for the remainder of the day. We stopped for a quick lunch at James Frye shelter and then moved on with plans to stop at a deli .2 from the trail. BBH and I picked up a hogie for dinner and lugged it the rest of the day. At that point the trail started an up and down roller coaster rock scramble. The last few miles seemed to drag - and the skies were getting darker and more threatening. There was still plenty of water on the trail in places - lots of mud. We arrived at the shelter and I headed to the spring to fetch some water. We couldn't find the spring as the area was crisscrossed by fast flowing streams. BBH said there are flood warnings for this area and I can understand why - since it started raining again. Tomorrow we may have a short day with resupply in Boiling Springs and a possible motel stay. There is an AYCE near the motel...A short day and some rest and getting out of the rain will be nice.Anyway, I'm pooped. Earlier today faintly heard out in the woods: "six million other plants around and that big doof with the backpack has to pee on me". If you listen carefully you can hear many things. Goodnight,Lwop
Date: 2009-05-06
From: Alex Kennedy Shelter

To: US11 Harrisburg Pike
Miles today: 11.9

It rained most of the night but had stopped before we got up. BBH was hanging in his hammock in the center of the shelter because it was raining so hard last night and had started before we got to set up camp. We were on the trail about 8AM and arrived in Boiling Springs before the pizza place opened so we had some gas station cajun hot dogs. They were good. After hanging out at the ATC office for a while we (BBH, Squire, Lwop) headed out of town. The trail through this area is extremely flat and passes through the center of many farms. The rain left the trail very muddy and slippery. It was still nice as we hiked all day without any rain - only the drops falling out of the trees. We passed over the Pennsylvania Turnpike and the sun actually peaked out from the clouds. About 3:30 we arrived at the America's Best Inn and got a room for the three of us. After showers and laundry we headed over to the Flying J to try to get some reading glasses for BBH. I picked up a few items enough to get me through to Duncannon. Depending on the weather we hope to hike to the shelter near Duncannon tomorrow. The reason it depends on the weather is because it started pouring again during dinner. Everybody is talking about flood warnings. We even got word today that the pedestrian bridge over the Potomac outside Harpers Ferry was closed. So, it is raining out but we are warm and dry in a nice motel room. I get to sleep with a real pillow and sheets! Life is good..Goodnight, Lwop
Date: 2009-05-07
From: US11 Harrisburg Pike

To: Cove Mountain Shelter
Miles today: 13.6
Weather: light rain

Even with real pillows and a bed I still didn't sleep well last night. I was up early with a sinus headache - probably because the stink of having gear for three hikers in a small room. We headed over for a very hearty breakfast before hitting the trail shortly after 8AM. It had rained last night but was only foggy and humid and only rained on us for a short time. The first four miles we were still crossing the Cumberland Valley so were on level ground. The trail was very slick and muddy from the rain. When we started up Blue Mountain the sun came out. Birds were singing, the leaves on the trees were growing so fast you could almost watch them grow. All the trees have new leaves - the light green color I grew up knowing as a sign of spring. This was always my favorite season - and as we head north we are extending that season. We arrived at the Darlinton Shelter after a humid sweltering climb. We passed the shelter as there was no sign on the trail and had to hike back. There was a new relocation in the area and I am sure a new sign will be erected soon. After lunch at the shelter we came off Blue Mountain and again hiked through farmland. It is a very picturesque area and throughout the day we were treated to some beautiful views. Heading up Cove Mountain we had our first true taste of what Pennsylvania is known for - rocks. These rocks are ankle breakers and come in all sizes and shapes. Some are loose, some pointy edge up, and all are waiting to trip you up. We spotted a blue blazed trail heading off to the left but opted not to follow it. We were not sure if that was leading to the shelter as the last blue blazed shelter trail had no signage. Fortunately we made the correct decision as we came upon the shelter sign about a mile later. We headed down to get some water from the spring - which was a good climb there and back. After dinner we were treated to the sight of what looked like a full moon rising in front of the shelter. There are stars out - and no clouds or rain. Life is good out on the trail. Goodnight,Lwop
Date: 2009-05-08
From: Cove Mountain Shelter

To: Doyle Hotel, Duncannon, Pa.
Miles today: 4.1
Weather: light rain

Today's entry like the hike will be a short one. We pulled a nero (not quite a zero day) and were finished hiking by 9:30. We had a big breakfast and then checked into the Doyle - a must stop for any long distance hiker. After chatting with a nice gentelman named Walt he offered to shuttle BBH and me to the grocery store. That worked out great as we were finished with chores much earlier than without his help. He was here to meet another hiker and had some great magic planned for C-Zur. We took showers, did laundry, picked up my mail drop and got things set for the next five days of hiking. After that we went down to the bar and had lunch and a cold one. We've been busy and now it is time for a nap so we can rest up for dinner. Goodnight,Lwop
Date: 2009-05-09
From: Doyle Hotel, Duncannon, Pa.

To: Peter's Mountain Shelter
Miles today: 11.3
Weather: overcast clouds

As in '04 I will not post much about my stay at the Doyle Hotel in Duncannon PA. It is something that long distance hikers should experience and not read about. I will say that hikers are treated like royalty here and nobody should pass by without a stop. Thank you to the owners Vicky and Pat. We left fed, rested, resupplied, and ready to face the 70 percent chance of rain. I also have to state that I really like this little town - friendly people. After eating a pizza BBH and I went over and watched a little league game at the nice facility the town provides for the kids. I guess you can call a visit here an American experience. Not to mention it is situated right on the Susquehanna River and I would guess it is virtually yuppy free. What this has to do with hiking - I don't know but from a hikers point of view I give this town two thumbs up. Anyway we were on the trail hiking through town about 7:30. The trail passes through the residential part of town before crossing the Juniata and then the Susquehanna Rivers. At that point we started about a thousand foot climb. It was cloudy and muggy with no breeze. The sweat was just pouring off my head - common when you hike after being in town tilting a few cold beers. We took a lunch break at Clarks Ferry Shelter and replenished our water supply. At this point we were on top of the ridge so at least there was some breeze and the hiking became more comfortable. I came across my first snake - a big black snake - sunning itself on the trail. I made it to Peters Mountain Shelter shortly after 2PM. The spring is 800 feet from the shelter. It is also 300 feet lower than the shelter so a round trip took about a half hour. Some hikers drank all the water on their return trip. 300 foot drop over 800 feet is steep - and excellent training for the Whites. In the shelter for the night is BBH, Squire, Jake, C-Zur, and yours truly. There are weekenders nearby. The next shelter is 17+ miles and that is where we plan to be tomorrow night. There is a front passing through and tomorrow should be cooler with a good breeze. Good hiking weather. Goodnight,Lwop
Date: 2009-05-10
From: Peter's Mountain Shelter

To: Rausch Gap Shelter
Miles today: 17.5
Weather: scattered clouds

We were on the trail at about 7:15 with absolutely perfect hiking conditions. Temps at start were in the forties with a good breeze. The earlier part of the day had a few small ups and downs and midday we had about a 1200 foot climb. After the climb the trail remained fairly level for the next 8 miles. I actually used a hat to keep the sun from burning my scalp. I arrived at the shelter quite spent as I am not yet in shape for these long days. Tomorrow we have an equally long day planned as we want to stay at the 501 shelter. You can have Pizza delivered there... and I am quickly getting tired of Pasta-roni. Tonight is going to be a chilly one and this shelter is rarely exposed to daylight - it is usually quite damp. In and around the shelter tonight Lwop, BBH, Squire, Jake, Putz, Moma Bear,and Frijole. I'm tired - goodnight,Lwop
Date: 2009-05-11
From: Rausch Gap Shelter

To: 501 Shelter
Miles today: 17.4
Weather: overcast clouds

I slept a little later than usual this morning. Jake was almost ready to hit the trail before I was even out of my bag. Squire was not far behind as he was looking to get into town to update his journal. After my usual, Starbucks and oatmeal, I was on my way. Last nobo out except Frijole who doesn't do mornings. The whole hike today was very interesting. We began hiking through what was once a town of over a thousand people - miners and I believe train builders. Nothing of it remains today except some of the roads. We climbed over Second Mountain and later passed under I81 at Swatara Gap. We also crossed over Swatara Creek on a beautiful old iron bridge. After I81 we had another long climb. The sky clouded over and it started to drizzle so I began to push hard for the William Penn Shelter. As soon as I arrived there the sun came back out. It is a nice two story shelter and the privy was convenient. I continued on and dragged my tired butt into the 501 shelter with visions ofItalian Food flashing through my mind. Earlier the thought crossed my mind that the Pizza place could be closed on Monday. Guess what - it is closed. We called every place and nobody delivers here. We pooled our funds and paid $15 for a shuttle to and from town and Squire and I picked up the food we ordered from the one Italian place open today. Thanks to Mrs. Squire who somehow found a phone number for Do's and Squire for arranging the shuttle. Anyway I ordered a whole large pizza and ate all but two slices. They will hit the trail with me in the morning. The PA rocks are tough - and my boots have about had it. I will have to find a new pair soon or have Mrs. Lwop ship me out a pair. My left knee complains now and then but otherwise I'm doing ok for an old, over weight, out of shape hiker. I'm just pleasantly exhausted. Goodnight,Lwop
Date: 2009-05-12
From: 501 Shelter

To: Eagles Nest Shelter
Miles today: 15.1
Weather: clear sky

After a good night of sleep - with a full belly - We were on our way north at 7:30. BBH looked like he was on a polar expedition, hat, gloves, hood, etc. I know I warm up after ten minutes on the trail so I set out with shorts and a tee shirt. .this day was one in a hundred - very cool this morning with a strong breeze. The sun playing peekaboo behind scattered puffy clouds. Perfect hiking weather. After about five miles I came to the Shikellimy Overlook and it was too inviting to pass by. BBH and Frijole joined me and we soaked up the sun and breeze while enjoying the view. Continuing on we passed the Hertlein Campsite which is a great place to spend the night. After that the trail got pretty nasty - probably some of the worst trail on the A/T. The main trail was mud and there were numerous trails zigzagging back and forth around the main trail. The nasty trail ended at the Fort Dietrick Snyder marker and became the usual PA rock trail. They say that Pennsylvania is where old boots come to die - and mine are almost there. They are developing cracks in the sole. I can't complain as they were old before I started this hike. Oh but they fit like a glove... I will be in Port Clinton tomorrow to find a replacement pair. My feet will have to break in all over again. Anyway about the hike... Today I passed more day and backpackers then I've ever seen in one day. Well over a dozen. Also seen on the trail - four Pink Lady Slippers - I think I got some good photos. I had two slices of left over pizza and a hot chocolate for dinner and am now tucked inside my sleeping bag. It may be in the thirties tonight. Tomorrow should be a short day with some time for cleaning up and resupply. We (BBH & Squire, and me) may get a room in town. But first a good nights sleep. Goodnight,Lwop
Date: 2009-05-13
From: Eagles Nest Shelter

To: PA61 Overpass
Miles today: 9.3

After a chilly night we were up and moving quickly to keep warm. A good breakfast of hot oatmeal and Starbucks hit the spot. Eagles Nest is a cool looking shelter - built to last at least another hundred years. I headed out shortly after 8AM. Temps were again about perfect for hiking and we had good (although very rocky) trail conditions. We made good time to the Auburn Lookout where we regrouped and took a short break. Shortly after that the trail dropped about a thousand feet over a half mile. That was tough on the knees and feet. I arrived at Port Clinton and immediately headed to the outfitter for a replacement water bladder and a few supplies. They didn't carry boots so after a big lunch at the Port Clinton Hotel we continued on the trail in the direction of the nearby Cabelas. We had problems as the bridge we needed to cross was under construction and there was no apparent way for us to cross. We were on our way back to Port Clinton to arrange a shuttle when the father of another hiker pulled up in a pickup and offered us a ride. We checked into the hotel across from Cabelas and hit the showers. BBH walked to Cabelas (about a quarter mile) and I managed to get a ride with Putz who we've bumped into at least three times along the trail. She finished her section hike today and has to go back to work. Bummer... Anyway, she also offered us a ride to the trail in the morning. Nice trail magic! Thanks again Putz. While at Cabelas I bought some new boots. They are a little heavier duty than what I'm used to so there may be some foot pain over the next few rocky days. I also got a new waterproof food bag as the old one wasn't very water proof after the five thousand or so miles I've hiked with it. We will be resupplying with food in a couple of days in Palmerton so we picked up just a few snacks. The weather calls for rain tomorrow which is just what Pez and I had five years ago in this same section. There are supposed to be some beautiful views but doesn'tlook like I'll ever see them. Well, it is way past hiker midnightand I'm going to bed. Three hikers in this room so there may be some snoring tonight. Goodnight, Lwop
Date: 2009-05-14
From: PA61 Overpass

To: Eckville Shelter
Miles today: 14.5
Weather: light rain

After a light continental breakfast at the hotel this morning we met up with Putz who offered to drop us at the trailhead. Sure enough it was raining out and the forecast was for plenty of the same. Putz must have brought the sunshine and unfortunately it was gone as soon as she left the trail. We began climbing immediately and the rain did its best to slow us down. My new boots got a taste of mud and rocks. One boot fit perfectly and the other irritated my heel all day. But, my feet stayed dry even through six inch puddles. I felt really strong today - probably because of the healthy town food. Bluecheese burger and buffalo wings provide some hiking power. We had agreed to meet for an early lunch at Windsor Furnace Shelter. When I arrived I was wet and cold. Just as I felt I had to get moving to warm up BBH showed up. He too didn't feel like sitting around so we started climbing again. When we reached the rocky summit at a place called Pulpit Rock we were rewarded with thebeautiful view of the inside of a cloud. It was mostly white with some additional shades of white. I scrambled over rocks for about an hour trying to follow the not so obvious trail. On a nice sunny day it might be fun hiking this area. In the pouring rain and fog it was real tough. White blazes - what there was of them - are hard to spot in the fog. Especially when they are painted on the light colored PA rocks. The trail skirted the Pinnacle - one of the best views of this section of trail. I didn't bother taking the short side trail there since I was still inside the clouds. For the next few miles the trail follows a dirt road that I believe is used primarily by hunters. Except for some huge puddles the road was a delight to walk on. The footing was good enough for you to look around without tripping. During this time the rain let up and the wind began to blow - I was actually starting to dry out a bit. The woods are so lush and such a beautiful green because all the recentrains. In fact right now it is pouring out again. It feels good being inside the shelter inside my dry sleeping bag. It is now past hiker midnight (8:30PM) and most hikers are asleep and snoring. This shelter sleeps 6 and that is what we have. But when it is raining the rule is that there is always room for one more. I understand they once had 16 in here. Must have stacked them like cord wood. I don't want to imagine the smell....Anyway, tomorrow starts off with a thousand foot climb. With any luck the rain will have ended by then. Till tomorrow, Ya'll have a goodnight,Lwop
Date: 2009-05-15
From: Eckville Shelter

To: Bake Oven Knob Shelter
Miles today: 17.4
Weather: clear sky

I was underway shortly after 7AM hiking through the morning fog with last nights rain dripping from the trees. It was already warm and muggy. The day started with a thousand foot climb. I was soaked with sweat by the time I reached Dan's Pulpit with its view of the fog. This section of trail is among my least favorite of all the hikes I've ever done - and that includes road walks. It is like they found a four mile long pile of rocks and painted some blazes and call it a trail. The rocks were as slick as ice. It was just plain ugly. By the time I reached the Allentown Hiking Club Shelter the sun had come out and things were starting to dry out. I took a long lunch break there and hiked out with BBH. When we got to PA309 I looked to the left and saw a big open sign. We went to check it out and found the Blue Mountain Summit Restaurant. We sat by ourselves out back and had another lunch - a good one this time. We also had them make us a chicken sandwich for us to carry for dinner.Leaving there we soon came upon a section called the Knife Edge. It is a rock scramble and one that I feel should not be a part of the A/T. As I stated in my '04 journal, I feel hiking should be an upright sport where one's life is not in imminent danger. We made it through ok and shortly later faced a similar section on Bake Oven Knob. At least the rocks were dry and not slippery. A fall from up there would more than end your hike. At about 6:30 I made it to the shelter and quickly headed to the spring for some water. With the heat and humidity I had been without water for a while. This was a tough day. My feet complained all day about the new boots but that is to be expected. No blisters... Anyway, I'm exhausted. Goodnight,Lwop