morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2015-04-10
From: Stealth Camp

To: Standing Indian Mountain Shelter
Miles today: 10.0
Weather: fog

The word of the day was rain. It poured on me all day long. I got moving around 7:15am and packed up quickly. The sky was already dark with rain clouds. Fortunately it didn't start raining until I was hiking. The first couple hours were highlighted by crossing the border to NC and some seriously steep uphill climbs. I stopped at a shelter after 5 miles to eat lunch consisting of tuna salad on a tortilla wrap, and a pack of crackers. While at the shelter, there was a guy asleep in his bag. He woke up later and I recognized him as Zephyr. He and I have been at many of the same stops since day 2 for me. His hiking partner decided to take a zero at the shelter, so he hiked with me to Standing Indian Mountain shelter.Fortunately, when I arrived, it wasn't raining. I was able to get my shelter set up and all my things inside before it started again. Tonight I am warm and dry in my sleeping bag, but tomorrow I will put on wet socks, shoes, shorts, and shirt to hike to the next shelter. The weather is supposed to be nice, and everything should dry out by the end of the day. I'm also excited about a great view from the top of Standing Indian Mountain. The smell of the rain, and the sound of rushing water near by is so peaceful. I'm sure I'll have no problem sleeping tonight. Take care all.                                    -Andy
Date: 2015-04-11
From: Standing Indian Mountain Shelter

To: Betty Creek Campsite
Miles today: 11.3

This morning was in the 30s when I woke up. The shelter elevation is 4700 feet, and there is a big difference between that and temp in town. I made the decision yesterday that I was going to sleep in, and finally rolled out of my bad around 8:00. I was in no hurry to put on my wet clothes from yesterday. I finally mustered the courage and got it done. Today's hike started with a 1.5 mile climb to the top of Standing Indian Mountain, where I got some great pictures from the incredible vista at the summit. It was also the first mountain over 5000 feet on the AT headed north.Other than a few early climbs, today was relatively flat and uneventful. There was a late afternoon view that was killer, and I snapped a few pictures of before the bugs got too bad.I hope I never get tired of the views because I work really hard for them. 11.3 miles today over relatively easy terrain. Tomorrow starts out with 3 miles of climbing that culminates with Albert Mountain. A vertical climb for .3 miles. There is a fire tower on top with an incredible view, and it is the 100 mile mark. I'm excited to get there. In 2 more days I'll be in Franklin where I am going to take my first zero mile day. It is going to be glorious. That's it for now. Take care all.-Andy
Date: 2015-04-12
From: Betty Creek Campsite

To: Stealth Camp
Miles today: 11.0
Weather: clear sky

Last night was the first flat tent spot I've had in the last 3. Unfortunately , I couldn't enjoy it as I was awoken by the sound of vomiting several times. Some poor fellow was violently ill all night. I hope he gets back on his feet soon.                                                   Packed up camp and hit the trail around 9:00am or so. The first three miles were mostly uphill with Albert Mountain as an exclamation point at the end. It was about 500 feet over .3 miles, by far the steepest terrain to date. After that, the trail was pleasant and the miles ticked off quickly. I hiked with Zephyr again today and we made it 8.7 miles to Long Branch Shelter, but opted not to stay the night. Tomorrow is town day in Franklin, NC and we wanted to get closer to the gap where the shuttle will pick us up.After another 2.3 miles or so, we camped on top of a mountain. It's cool tonight, but there isn't any wind and it is whisper quiet except for the faint sound of activity near Franklin, 12 miles away. While hiking we also ran in to squirrel. He zeroed a few days back when it was raining and caught up to us. The sunset was awesome tonight and when it was dark, we could see all the lights of Franklin. One of my best night's on the AT so far. Tomorrow is town day and I'm very excited. I will update all my backlogged journal posts then. Take care all.-Andy
Date: 2015-04-13
From: Stealth Camp

To: Winding Stair Gap
Miles today: 2.7
Weather: broken clouds

This morning started promptly at 7:00am. It rained off and on overnight starting at 3:00am, so I had to pack up a wet tent this morning. I'm starting to get used to being in the rain out here. It's a good thing too, because there is a high percentage chance for the next week or so.Tonight I am off trail in Franklin staying at the Budget Inn after a short 1.5 mile jaunt to the gap for pick up. Tomorrow is a planned zero day for me, and the fact that it is going to pour rain all day makes me feel less guilty about not hiking. My body needs the rest after two weeks and 110 miles. After getting cleaned up, myself and two other hikers, Zephyr and Squirrel, went to eat lunch at a Mexican restaurant. After a resupply at the Dollar General for the upcoming 3 day hike, it was back to the hotel to do laundry. Then I made a trip to the local outfitter. They are supposed to be experts at shoe sizing and fitting. I purchased a much better fitting pair of shoes and new insoles. I hope they help my feet feel better. They are much more comfortable so far.After resting for a few hours, it was back out for dinner at a local sports bar and grill. I feel hungry all the time. I find that every hour or two I want to eat, no matter how much I've already eaten that day. Most of my town chores are done, so I'm going to look forward to relaxing tomorrow. Take care all.-Andy
Date: 2015-04-14
From: Winding Stair Gap

To: Winding Stair Gap
Miles today: 0.0

Today was my first zero day. I had a good breakfast at a local restaurant and mailed my old shoes home. The rest of the day was spent relaxing in my room. Tomorrow I get back on the trail, and head to the Nantahala Outdoor Center that is 3 days away. It is expected to rain a lot, and I will be breaking in my new shoes. Hopefully I won't get any blisters, but I think that is a long shot. It's late, and I'm going to sleep. Take care all.-Andy
Date: 2015-04-15
From: Winding Stair Gap

To: Wayah Bald Shelter
Miles today: 11.0
Weather: moderate rain

Woke up this morning knowing it was going to be a wet day. I caught a ride on the 9:00am free shuttle offered by Ron Haven himself. It was drizzling when I got off the bus, but turned in to a steady downpour that lasted the entire day. It didn't stop raining the entire 7 hour hike. I hiked 11 miles in a river of sole sucking mud and muck. At several spots, the trail turned into a rushing stream.I stopped only a couple of times for a quick snack or water break, but quickly got back to hiking after just a few minutes because I was getting cold. I made it to the first shelter halfway through the day, but opted not to stop because it was .5 miles off the trail. May as well be 5000 miles away. I made it to the shelter where I'm sleeping tonight and was fortunate enough to grab a shelter space. Now I won't have to set up my tent in the rain.I also won't have to pack up a wet tent in the morning. I'll deal with a few shelter mice to afford that luxury. My shoes held up well today, and I didn't get any blisters. However they are quite heavy when waterlogged, and will take longer to dry than my old trail runners. I'm hoping the better fit and greater stability will be worth it. Tomorrow should be a better day weather wise, but rain is still likely. Hopefully I can get some sleep tonight. Take care all.-Andy
Date: 2015-04-16
From: Wayah Bald Shelter

To: Wesser Bald Shelter
Miles today: 10.6
Weather: overcast clouds

Last night's stay in the shelter was quite interesting. I didn't sleep well, mostly because of the snoring and being jammed in like sardines. I saw a few mice, but they didn't bother me. Everyone woke up this morning to wet gear. If it was left out, it got soaked. I packed away all my wet gear, and put my wet hiking clothes on last because they were very cold. I warmed up quickly during my hike. The morning hike was leisurely, and muddy from yesterday's rain. I stopped for lunch at a shelter around noon. I ate a Slim Jim and cheese stick combo first. Then it was a piece of spam right out of the packet, and finished with some trail mix. The afternoon hike started out very promising. The weather man predicted clearing, and maybe evensome sunshine. I stopped at the bottom of a hill before my final climb of the day. I was with Zephyr and Squirrel taking a water break when it began to rain. By the time we got our packs on and started walking, we were hit with driving rain. I happened to be in front and decided that I was going to push it the final 2.2 miles to camp. I couldn't believe how fast I few up the mountain. My legs felt strong the entire climb, and I kept a steady pace all the way to the top without stopping. At one point I turned around and looked for the other two, but didn't see them. First time I've really felt "in the zone," I can tell my trail legs are coming along nicely. My feet still hurt, even in the new shoes, but I try not to think about it. I made it to the shelter around 3:45pm and all the shelter spots were full. Though after last night and this morning, I'm happy to be in my tent.Tomorrow is a quick 5.8 miles to the Nantahala Outdoor Center. I'll hopefully get a spot at their hostel and a good meal at the river restaurant. Until then, take care all.-Andy
Date: 2015-04-17
From: Wesser Bald Shelter

To: Nantahala Outdoor Center
Miles today: 5.8
Weather: light rain

I woke up this morning around 7:15am and got moving. I knew today was town day and wanted to make sure I was able to get a bed to sleep in. I left camp and ridge walked for a mile or so. It was a nice warm up before the 6 mile, 2500 foot descent to the Nantahala Outdoor Center. It took me about 3.5 hours to do the miles, but I had to stop several times. First, to put on my dry socks so I wouldn't get a blister. Second, to put my knee bandage on for extra support. Third, to remove some duct tape from my sock that unadhered from my foot while walking, and fourth for a long snack break. The terrain wasn't too bad except for a lot of roots and a few very steep parts. I passed a few day hikers along the way. You can always tell when it is the weekend because it gets much busier out here. During the week it is mostly just us thru hikers.Once at the NOC, it was hard to decide what to do first. This place is an oasis with a lot going on. I went to the general store to reserve a room. The man working the counter informed me that everything was booked. That was a real downer after the last three days of rain. They had a good resupply, so I bought some things to get me to Fontana Dam. As I was about to leave, he mentioned a big group didn't need as many bunks as they had reserved and a room was open. Talk about right place, and right time. The trail provides when you need it the most. Before making the long trek up to the overflow bunk house, I went to the River's End restaurant and had chicken wings and a burger with tots. I also sampled the Nantahala Brewing Co. Pale Ale. It was delicious. After dropping off my pack and hanging my tent out to dry, I went to wash clothes; during which time I purchased and ate a large grape soda, a jolly rancher popsicle, and some Starburst. I also have a bag of Doritos I'll probably eat tomorrow morning. I'd eat them now, but it's late and I already brushed my teeth. In three days I'll be at Fontana Dam, then in to Great Smokey Mountains National Park. I can't wait. Take care all. -Andy
Date: 2015-04-18
From: Nantahala Outdoor Center

To: Sassafras Gap Shelter
Miles today: 6.7
Weather: clear sky

Today I slept in until 7:45am, knowing I had a difficult hike. After packing up my gear, I headed down to the River's End restaurant and had a large breakfast of eggs, ham, home fries, a biscuit with gravy, and 2 cokes. I was very full, but it provided me with energy all day.Today's hike was only 6.7 miles, but it was a 3000+ foot climb out of the Nantahala gorge. For those in Atlanta, imagine stacking 4 Stone Mountains on top of each other and then climbing to the top. I made pretty good time completing the hike in 4.5 hours. I could have definitely done a few more miles today, but it stated raining just a half mile or so before I reached the shelter. When I got there, I grabbed the last shelter spot on the top level (this is a fancy shelter) in the corner.It is a pretty packed house with many people tenting or hammocking in the area. There is a large group of section hikers here and they are occupying most of the upper level. I've met a lot of really interesting and unique people this evening. It is forecasted to start raining in the early morning hours, so I'm glad I won't have to pack up a wet tent while it's raining. The downside is dealing with the mice. I already hear them squeaking. Hopefully it is a restful night. Tomorrow is 9.1 or so to the next shelter. It's getting late, (almost 9:00pm) so that means bed time. Take care all.-Andy
Date: 2015-04-19
From: Sassafras Gap Shelter

To: Brown Fork Shelter
Miles today: 9.1
Weather: overcast clouds

Today had a little bit of everything. I didn't get to sleep last night until after 12:00am. I was in the corner of the top level of a 16 person shelter. The guy next to me was sawing some serious timber right in to my ear. I had to turn myself around on my sleeping pad to escape the noise. It started raining steadily at 4:30am and continued most of the day. I stepped off at 9:00am after having been awakened by one of the weekenders at 6:45am with a blinding head lamp light in the eyes. Well, I'm up now, guess I'll get moving. It was pouring most of the day while I was hiking. After a quick warm up this morning, I took off, determined to make good time. I've learned to smile at the face of misery, which is the best word to describe the conditions today. However, I was positive all day and just embraced the suck.The trail was a creek filled with ankle deep mud. There were two fairly difficult climbs today, and one of them was 600 feet over .6 miles called Jacob's Ladder. I was told it was fairly difficult, but I flew up it without stopping, even in these conditions. I give the credit to the all terrain type tread on my shoes, and the tail magic some nice ladies left in the gap just before the climb. I had a banana, a butterfinger, a fruit roll up, and Mountain Dew. It couldn't have come at a better time. while I was enjoying my treats, a nice lady pulled up and asked 4 wet, muddy, smelly hikers if we needed a lift in to town. Nobody did, but how nice of that person. Right after that the wind and rain really picked up, but I just smiled and kept hiking.I made really good time to the shelter. It was a 9.1 mile day, and normally I'd be really proud to accomplish that alone, but I did it in 5 hours and was at the shelter at 2:00pm. A big reason why I got here so quickly is because I never took my pack off all day. I've been having a problem with a strap that won't stay tight. I had Squirrel tie a knot near the buckle so I don't have to tighten it 100 times per day. Also, when it rains, the only way to stay warm is to hike. Anyway, after 9.1 miles, I still felt really good and a little guilty for not pushing to the next shelter which would have been 6.1 more. It would have been my longest day by far and in the worst conditions, but I'm confident I could have done it without too much trouble. If it wasn't raining, I might have tried.I was praying for a shelter spot to get out of the rain. Funny that before I started the trail, I swore I wouldn't sleep in a shelter unless I had to. Now, I kind of look forward to it. It's been a really cool and chill crew tonight. There are 6 of us in the shelter and Squirrel is hammocking. We all cooked and had great conversation. I have a new trail name meow that I think is more fitting, Gordon Gekko! It's 9:00pm now and everyone is in thir bag ready for bed. I'm going to read a bit and then hit it. Tomorrow should be another rainy day, but less than 10 miles to the campsite just outside Fontana Dam. Take care all.-Andy
Date: 2015-04-20
From: Brown Fork Shelter

To: Fontana Dam
Miles today: 11.6
Weather: scattered clouds

I was awoken this morning around 6:15am by a thunderstorm that lasted for a little over a half hour. A Southbound hiker who was 150 miles or so from the finish line said that it was the wildest storm of his entire trip. My decision to sleep in the shelter was again, a good one. The terrain this morning was easy, and I made 6+ miles by lunch. I stopped at a shelter and had a couple of snacks before setting off again. I wanted to get all the way to Fontana Dam today with some time to get things done. By 3:30pm I was at the marina and had a shuttle pick me up and take me to the lodge. I picked up my resupply(thanks dad) and checked in to a room. After getting cleaned up, I had a salad and burger from the lodge restaurant and printed out my permit for the Smokies. While there, I saw another hiker I'd stayed at the last two shelters with walk by. His name is Disconnect, and he is also from Atlanta. He asked if I wanted to split a room. I happily agreed because it cut the room price in half and he is a cool guy. Later in the evening, we heard music coming from an area with a group staying here for some kind of working retreat. We walked down to their lodge and a guy was set up playing guitar. He was excellent and knew just about anything you asked him to play. I asked him if he knew any Bob Seeger. He launched in to Old Time Rock and Roll, then Johnny Be Good, and Great Balls of Fire without stopping. It was one of those unique AT experiences that nobody but us will have. After sorting some gear, it is time for bed. Take care all.-Andy
Date: 2015-04-21
From: Fontana Dam

To: Birch Springs Campsite
Miles today: 7.2
Weather: broken clouds

I stayed up much later than I should have last night and woke up this morning at 9:00am. It wasn't a big deal as I'd planned on taking my time and hiking out in the afternoon. After packing up all my gear, I headed to the laundromat to wash clothes, but had to wait 30 minutes for a machine. I killed some time in the general store. They had a lot of food options, but the prices were very high. Glad I didn't resupply there. After getting my clothes clean, I walked down the road to The Pit Stop and had a hot dog and a beer for lunch. When I walked out, the shuttle driver was waiting. He took me and two others back to the trail.When I got to the Fontana Dam, I realized my video camera was dead, so I captured it using my phone. It was really cool walking across the largest dam in the East, as a thru hiker. After entering Great Smokey Mountains National Park, I started climbing. Today's elevation gain was around 2500 feet over 5 miles or so. I had lots of energy from eating real food in town, but felt slow because of my full food bag. The views I've already seen in the Smoky's have been epic. There was a .1 mile blue blaze that took me up to a fire tower. I climbed to the top and got some great photos and video. I stopped at the first campsite and set up my tent. There is a large crew of about 20 here tonight. We had a fire and talked until well after 9:00pm, late for us hikers. Tomorrow's goal is 10.7 miles to the third shelter. Not sure what will happen though. I do know that it is bedtime and I'm beat. Take care all.-Andy
Date: 2015-04-22
From: Birch Springs Campsite

To: Spence Field Shelter
Miles today: 10.7
Weather: scattered clouds

Woke up this morning at 7:00am to the sound of rain drops on my tent. It was just a sprinkle, but enough to make me roll over and go back to sleep. Next thing I knew, it was 8:45am and my tent was dry. I packed up and got out of camp around 10:00am. Today's hiking was characterized by 3 long climbs. None of them were really difficult, but it was still almost 3000 feet of climbing today. I made the first shelter around lunch and ate a couple snacks. It was nice out when I left, but an hour later it began sprinkling. I knew I was close to the next shelter so I hustled up the trail and missed the worst of it. A few other hikers came in after me a bit wet, but I was very dry. My final destination was the Spence Shelter, 10.7 miles total.I had my first experience pooping in the woods today. There aren't many privys in the Smokys, so I found a nice spot behind a large rock and dug a hole. Things went better than expected. Tonight I'm sleeping in the Spence Field Shelter. There are probably 18 people here tonight. The ridge runner said there is a 50% chance of rain, and since I'm not lucky and in the mountains, I grabbed some space inside. It has two levels of sleeping, a fireplace, tarps blocking the wind, and lots of seating. It is definitely fancy inside. Tomorrow is going to be 12 miles to the second shelter after this one. The fire has run out, so it's bed time for me. Take care all.-Andy
Date: 2015-04-23
From: Spence Field Shelter

To: Silers Bald Shelter
Miles today: 12.1
Weather: light rain

I slept in the shelter and was able to get a pretty good night's sleep. It dropped down to the high 30s, and a guy in the shelter next to me has a 32 degree bad and no sleeping pad. I felt a little bad for him, but he seemed unfazed. The hike today looked kind of flat on the map, it was anything but. Everyone seemed to underestimate the hike, because everyone was complaining about the difficulty. The ups and downs were small, but steep. There were many great views and I took a lot of pictures. It was a 12.1 mile day, but I felt pretty good afterwards. I hiked with Zephyr who did 15 miles, and two dogs did a18 mile day, so I had no room to complain. It was very cold last night. By the time we arrived at the shelter, it had dropped in to the 40s, and it was difficult to cook. My Ramen noodle water took a long time to boil.Once I finished cooking I ate and socialized inside the shelter where they had a big fire going in the fireplace. Unfortunately I pulled in late, around 7:00 so no shelter spots were left. In the Smokeys, you aren't allowed to tent unless the shelters are full. Therefore there are not many good spots to pitch a tent. I found a place, but it was quite angled and I ended up jammed up against my tent wall most of the night. So far the Smokeys have been my favorite part of the AT, even with all the rules. A lot of hikers complain, but many of the rules should be followed no matter where you are on the trail. The only ones that are a little silly pertain to the shelter situation. The views have been absolutely breattaking. I have so many great scenic pictures, and now I understand why this is the most visited national