morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2004-03-17
From: Hawk Mtn Shelter, GA

To: Gooch Mtn Shelter, GA
Miles today: 7.1
Weather: scattered clouds

This morning started with a brisk wind and a temperature of 30 degrees, F. I had a slow start and CuppaJoe and PeakABoo left camp about 30 minutes ahead of me.What I enjoyed as I hiked towards Gooch Gap was watching the shadow, created by the rising sun move down the valley as the morning went on.Today's travel was relatively easy. Our destination was only 7.1 miles away. These first few days are giving all of the thru-hikers time to get used to the physical exertion of carying a backpack all day.I have enjoyed visiting with Hopeful (class of 2003). He is hikhing for part of the way with Welsh Nomad. He is sharing his insights with this year's hikers.I met JoAnne, a 72 years-young hiher who is also traveling northbound. She has my respect. To see her carying a heavy pack that looks as big as she is makes me feel humble.Tonight, the shelter is full and so are the campsites around the shelter. I'd say there are 25 or so people here. We've all had a good time talking and joking while preparing our meals around the shelter.It is about 7:30pm. I am once again typing by flashlight on this litle keyboard. It's not easy to corect spelling or grammar erors. I'm tired, and keeping a journal is somewhat tedious, so I'll close with this line and go to bed.Gooch Mountain Shelter, Georgia"Bear pi±atas" also known as bear cables that allow you to hoist your food up and out of the reach of wandering bears
Date: 2004-03-18
From: Gooch Mtn Shelter, GA

To: Jarrard Gap, GA
Miles today: 10.6

I spent a fun evening at the Gooch Mountain Shelter.This morning,the temperature was about 45 degrees with a high overcast sky and drizzle.I am still traveling with PeakABoo and CuppaJoe. We intended to make it to Wood's Hole Shelter, but decided to cut off a mile by staying in Jarrard Gap. A "Gap" is basically the saddle between two mountains.The trail today was moderate with some good views, but they were mostly obscured by the hazy and often rainy sky.By the time we reached Jarrard Gap, the sky had cleared, giving us a good view of the mountains. There are three other campers here besides us.A woman named Linda walked up the gravel road with her dog Suzie. She said that she lives down the road, but walks her dog during the evenings up to the gap so that she can find out if everyone is warm enough and has enough to eat.CuppaJoe started a fire and we enjoyed our diner as the sun set.It is once again 7:30pm as I type this. My feet are aching. I think I may have had my boots tied too tightly. My back is a litle sore, but should it be better in the morning.Tomorow, we have what is supposed to be a difficult ascent up Blood Mountain. Luckily, by the time tomorrow is nears an end, I should be staying somewhere with a roof over my head in Neels Gap. I really want to take a shower!Yeah, it was 55 pounds, but I stayed warm. I replaced most of my gear in Damascus with lighter equipment.
Date: 2004-03-20
From: Neel's Gap, GA

To: Low Gap Shelter, GA
Miles today: 10.6
Weather: scattered clouds

All I can say about today, and for that matter, the past week is that the woods are "spectacularly brown." The trees are brown, the leaves are brown, the rocks are brown, and the dirt is brown.I stayed the past night in the hostel at Neel's Gap and worked hard at re-typing my journal entry from Monday the 15th and the 19th. In the morning, the PocketMail had an error and I lost it all.   I will try to update those dates on the 23rd, when I expect to be in Haiwassee, Georgia.I set out today to reach Low Gap Shelter. Enroute, I saw the first four legged animals besides hikers with dogs. I saw a deer and squirrel. The woods have been quiet otherwise. There are no bugs and few birds to be seen.I made good time to the shelter today, even though I did run into some rain. The shelter is full with six of us and we have a good fire going. There are another 10 or so in tents.Tomorow, I hope to go to Blue Mtn Shelter or further. In case I need to re-type this entry, I will close it here.Mountain Crossings at Walasi-Yi (Neels Gap, Ga)The App. Trail goes right through this building. Note the white blaze in the center of the photo.Everything's still brown in GeorgiaCampers next to the Low Gap Shelter, GA
Date: 2004-03-21
From: Low Gap Shelter, GA

To: Tray Mtn Shelter, GA
Miles today: 14.9

After completing my journal from yesterday, Saturday, March, 20, I watched the clouds and eventual lightning move over me from inside the shelter and not in a tent. It was a good night to be in the shelter. The wind started to kick up and I could see flashes of light in the clouds. In a matter of 20 minuteds or so, those of us in the shelter (Pete, Joe, PilPro, Me, Ranger, & Chef Paul) were treated to the most spectacular cloud-to-cloud lightning display that would rival any fireworks display. The flashes were blinding, but awe-inspiring and humbling.The folowing day, I awoke to the usual howling wind that accompanies a passing cold front. It sounded just like a fast moving freight train.I planned on hiking, today, only 7.2 miles away to Blue Mtn Shelter so that I could take it easy on my body, but I made good time and decided to continue another 7.7 miles to the Tray Mountain Shelter. A few houts later, I met up again with PeakABoo and CuppaJoe. They've been going a bit beyond where I've been staying each day.   I told them of my intention of going on to the Cheese Factory Campsite or to The Tray Mountain Shelter.I moved on ahead of them and spent most of the day hiking alone until I came upon other hikers, twenty or more years my senior. Most of them could had the stamina to hike faster up the mountain than I could.Anyway, shortly after I passed the Cheese Factory site, I met up with a prior thru-hiker from years back. He was sitting on the tailgate of his SUV at a road crossing. "The General" had a cooler full of soft drinks, beer, and a big bag full of cheeseburgers from Wendy's that he was handing to thru-hikers as they passed. Trail Magic!My next stop was the top of Tray Mountain, elev, 4,430. Since the cold front went by, the skies were extremrly clear. Visibility was outstanding. From the top of Tray Mountain, the views took my breath away. I just couldn't believe how far you vould see in all directions.I moved on from there to the Tray Mountain Shelter. Even though there was room in the shelter, I opted to camp on an overlook that still makes me say, "WOW." I would highly recommend a trip to Tray Mountain to anyone who wants to take a good wekend backpack trip.Since the skies were clear, I knew that the temperatures would drop significantly, so I went to bed early and put on extra clothing. This is the white blaze on the very top of Tray Mountain, Georgia.Rocky trail in some parts of Georgia, today.The AT in Georgia is well marked! (Unicoi Gap).More of Georgia - On the way to Tray Mtn.In Georgia, northbound to Tray MountainMy tent and the view for the evening! Tray Mountain was an amazing place to stay for the night. What a view!
Date: 2004-03-22
From: Tray Mtn Shelter, GA

To: Dick's Creek Gap, GA
Miles today: 10.6

Just as expected, the overnight temperature did drop below freezing, but I never expected to wake up to a temperature of 11 degrees, F! The steady winds of at least 20 mph make me wonder what the wind chill might have been. All I know is that I even skipped breakfast and hot chocolate to pack up my things and get down the mountain as fast as I could. By mid-morning it was still windy and only 20 degrees.I don't know where PeakABoo and CuppaJoe stayed the night because I hiked alone for nearly the whole day. I hope that they are ok. Here is a map of my progress so far. In a couple of days, I'll be in North Carolina.Today is my first motel stay and a chance to shower, do laundry, get my provisions from the Post Office, and take care of finding out what bills came in the mail to my brother's house. I was so ready to stop hiking for a day and rest. So, I moved myself down the trail as fast as I thought I could without sustaining an injury. Trail Magic struck again as I entered the Gap. A former thru-hiker left a note on a cardboard box for thru-hikers. I could not read the writing, but this person hiked the AT in 1997. The note said something to the effect of "Good luck and God Bless to all 2004 thru-hikers." Inside the box was an assortment of candy bars and Pepsi Colas. Believe me, I loved it! That was my breakfast. A shuttle from the Hiawassee Inn motel picked me up from the intersection of Dick's Creek Gap and took me in to Hiawassee. I realy wanted to stay at the Holiday Inn because they have a hot tub. Unfortunately, they didn't have a shuttle available. Later in the afternoon after a 45 minute shower, I met fellow thru-hikers Newt, Welsh Nomad, Andrew, Ranger, and Chef Paul at Daniel's AYCE (all-you-can-eat) Steakhouse.It has been a tiresome day. I'm going to bed.
Date: 2004-03-23
From: Dick's Creek Gap, GA

To: Dick's Creek Gap, GA
Miles today: 0.0

Today, I am in Hiawassee, Georgia for my first "zero day," i.e., no hiking. This morning, I met Ranger, Chef Paul, and Little Bit for breakfast. Afterwards, we were still hungry, so we went to the AYCE Shoney's for breakfast - again.After we departed, I went to the local library where I am updating this journal now. In a while, I will still need to do laundry, go to the grocery store, Post Office, and call home to find out what bills came in the mail to me.It's a beautiful, clear day. Hiawassee is a nice little town. I'm impressed. In fact, I've been impressed with how well the AT has been maintained in Georgia. Tomorrow, I hope to move northbound with Ranger.
Date: 2004-03-24
From: Dick's Creek Gap, GA

To: Bly Gap, NC
Miles today: 8.8
Weather: few clouds

I really enjoyed my stay in Hiawassee. It is a nice two-stoplight town.Sam and Ron are new owner/managers of the Hiawassee Inn. They are really working hard to renovate the place and make it hiker friendly. I wasn't at all impressed with Ingles grocery store. There, they raise the prices and basically force you to get their "frequent saver" card so that you can get the normal prices. I asked the store's general manager to override that requirement for hikers and out-of-towners, but she said no.   I will give a call into their corporate office and voice my complaint. In the meantime, I'd suggest shopping at Dill's Food City.I've come to find out that PeakABoo is visiting the doctor today in Hiawasse. CuppaJoe is a few miles behind me.I intended to make it 11+ miles to Muskrat Creek Shelter tonight. However, a mile or so short of the shelter, I saw a big fire in the distance with smoke billowing towards the shelter. After I saw flames lick over the top of the trees, I turned around and headed back to Bly Gap.Honestly, I was frightrened. Visions of California and Colorado wildfires came to mind. Another hiker, Jeff (Yurtle) was concerned, too. We both made calls on our cell phones to the ranger districts in the area. I was appalled to find out that no one in the ranger districts knew about the fire. I've never knew that people could be so ignorant of the existence of a huge forest fire or the location of Bly Gap (my location). You'd think that they would know their geography, but they probably couldn't find their way out of a paper bag.The "opinion" of the rangers was that it was an 800 acre "controlled burn", but no one at their office really knew for sure. I made it very clear to them on my cell phone that there were about twenty very concerned hikers at Bly Gap. I'd like to have good things to say about the forest ranger's district, but, with the exception of Larry Fox, the people I spoke to were a waste of taxpayer money.Finally, a gentleman at the district named Larry Fox tried to reassure me that the fire was under control, but in the event of an out-of-control situation, we should hike down an old, overgrown trail on the northwest side of Bly Gap. That old trail will take us behind the mountain and back down into the town of Hiawassee.I am now in my tent, but still concerned about any movement of the fire. Other hikers here think that I'm a little too cautious, but I dont think so. I am convinced that many hikers here have no idea how fast a wildfire can move - especially with the gusty winds blowing in our direction.Tomorrow, I have to cross the ridge that the fire is on, but hope to get far away.Goodnight Tenting at Bly Gap, Ga
Date: 2004-03-25
From: Bly Gap, NC

To: Carter Gap Shelter, NC
Miles today: 15.4
Weather: scattered clouds

Today I had a long hike to Carter Gap. It was basically unremarkable and unimpressive. The trees are all the same and they're still brown. I'm wishing for Spring. I did meet up with Bear Behind and we hiked up to the top of the 5,500 foot Standing Indian Mountain, together. It was not as strenuous as I expected since the trail gently wound it's way up the side of the mountain rather than going straight to the top. We had a good discussion about everything from electrical engineering to DNA biology.Bear Behind was given his trailname because he is carrying a medium-sized teddy bear strapped to his back. The objective for him is to take a picture of the bear at certain landmarks for his nieces. His nieces own the bear.Anyway, we made it to the shelter about 4:30 PM. I've just finished dinner and am sitting by the fire. The weather is clear and cool. I'm ready for bed.Tomorrow, I hope to do 12 miles to the next shelter.
Date: 2004-03-26
From: Carter Gap Shelter, NC

To: Wallace Gap, NC
Miles today: 12.8

Last evening at the Carter Gap Shelter was great. We had a big fire going and I had great conversations with Kelly, Courtney, Kent, Katie, Sarge, and Little Engine. I was too tired to set up my tent after such a long day, so I stayed in the shelter.The following morning came (today, Friday) and I woke to fairly thick fog, but surprisingly, the temperature was about 40 degrees.I led the way towards Albert Mountain, folowed by Bear Behind and Stumblebum. Albert Mountain is a killer. It reaches an elevation of 5,220 feet and towards the top I had to hold onto trees and pull myself up. On the top, the view in all directions was astounding.   We had another clear day. There is an observatory or firetower of some sort at the top where I had lunch.The hike down to Wallace Gap is relatively easy. Once there, Bear Behind, Stumblebum and I hitched a ride to the Rainbow Springs Campground where we'll stay the night.At the campground, I was surprised to discover that I had caught up with KrispyKritter and Bryan Garcia aka BooBoo. I started the Appalachian Trail with them almost two weeks ago.Anyway, about the time I arrived, I was hungry and tired. I was able to get a 12" Red Baron Pizza, Snickers Ice Cream bar and a Gatorade. That was great!Full Moon is here and is hiking with his Golden retriever, Jesse. I may see them tomorrow at Siler Bald Shelter.Bear Behind gets his name because he is carrying a stuffed bear attached to the back of his pack. He was instructed by his nieces to take a picture of the bear at various landmarks that he passes.Albert Mountain Lookout TowerHeading up Albert Mountain
Date: 2004-03-27
From: Wallace Gap, NC

To: Siler Bald Shelter, NC
Miles today: 6.8
Weather: clear sky

First thoughts after last night: Rainbow Springs Campground is highly recommended and very hiker friendly. They have hot showers, too.What a surprise, today. After stopping early for the night at Siler Bald Shelter, CuppaJoe walked up. I haven't seen him in days.I'm here at the shelter with Stumblebum, Full Moon (and dog, Jessie), and CuppaJoe. The shelter is located on a nice hill with a large grassy area below. The weather has clouded up a bit and it looks like some rain for tomorrow. We've had some great sunny days, but the woods need the rain.In the middle of the night, I remember getting up at this shelter and heading out to the privy. What surprised me was realizing that the shelter was high on a hill/mountain. With the leaves still off the trees from winter, I could see the lights of the small town down in the valley. I do not know what town it was, but the trees were silhouetted behind the city lights. The location of the town was far enough away that the lights appeared to have a faint twinkling effect caused by the particles in the atmosphere. Very cool!In two days I should be staying at the Nanthahala Outdoor Center.A larger view of Siler Bald Shelter.
Date: 2004-03-28
From: Siler Bald Shelter, NC

To: Cold Spring Shelter, NC
Miles today: 12.1
Weather: broken clouds

I've been on the trail for two weeks now and quite honestly, I'm a little bored, lonely, and often, quite tired. I want to see Spring. I've had enough of this dead, brown, landscape. It's depressing and looks like a wasteland to me.I've hiked many more miles alone than I thought I would have by now. Hopefully, in a week or two, I'll fit in with a regular group of hikers. Hiking in front of or behind another person gives me some motivation, a pace, and a reason to be here.The pace of getting up in the morning, eating, and then hiking all day is tiresome. Quite often, I just want to sit and just exist instead of always being in motion and always on the trail to the next shelter.There was some "good" to today. Skeemer was at a trail crossing, encouraging this years' thru-hikers with conversation, a grill with hot dogs, drinks, and other snacks. Boy, did I need that! Thank you, Skeemer!I moved on up the mountain to Cold Spring Shelter for the evening. It's an old shelter surrounded by Rhododendron. Those seem to be the only green plants around. In front of the shelter is a fire pit and about 50 feet in front of the shelter is, or must be Cold Creek.   It is a small creek, but the sound is soothing. Ever since I reached North Carolina, I've seen lots of posted signs that read "Bear Sanctuary." Fortunately or unfortunately, I havent seen one yet.I will probably be see CuppaJoe, Bluebell, Eagle Eye, Sunshine, and Stumblebum here to stay the night, shortly.Wayah Bald Observation TowerSkeemer's Trail Magic. L to R: Gaia, ?hidden? , Pegasus, Mad Scientist and Skeemer at the grill.
Date: 2004-03-29
From: Cold Creek Shelter, NC

To: Wesser, NC (Nanthahala Outdoor Center)
Miles today: 11.5

This morning, I expected an easy downhill towards Wesser, NC where I intended to stay at the hostel, located at the Nanthahala Outdoor Center. It really appears like the elevation profile on the map is incorrect. There were some tough ups and terrible downs. Yes, my knees did ache. I hope that it's only temporary.I was really looking forward to having a great big cheeseburger (which I did have). There's a neat restaurant here that overlooks the river with open air seating. I am doing laundry now and will take a hot shower in the hostel. Jumping into the river sounds like fun, but the current would probably carry me away. At least dipping my feet into it sounds like a treat, especialy since I've got some bad blisters in my heels.   Tomorrow, I think calls for rain. If it gets severe, I might take a day off. I know, "No Rain, No Pain, No Maine", but I'm out here to enjoy myself whether or not I make it to Maine.
Date: 2004-03-30
From: Wesser, NC (Nanthahala Outdoor Center)

To: Sassafras Gap Shelter, NC
Miles today: 6.9
Weather: light rain

Last night's stay at the Nanthahala Outdoor Center (NOC) was great. I highly recommend a stay there. The bunk beds are actually comfortable. During the night, we had some welcome rain. The forests have been too warm and dry. This area needs the rain.By morning, the rain was continuing. I heard that more was to come tonight and considered taking a zero day to watch the people rafting and kayaking on the Nanthahala River. After much deliberation with myself and other hikers, I decided to continue. Luckily, the rain stopped as I moved on up the mountain. I was concerned that the footing for this ascent out of the NOC would be treacherous if it was wet.There was a pleasing scent to the woods after the rain last night. I was enjoying the cool, damp air as I hiked. Occasionally, moisture from the trees overhead would fall on me cooling me off some more. I guess it is good that the trees are leafless because it allows the hikers to see the mountains across the valley. I only went 6.9 miles today, but make no mistake about it, the ascent out of and descent into the NOC is a killer. There are some great views on this section of trail. You can see all the way down to the Nanthahala River from the ridges. Another thing that I've noticed on the trail is the sounds of the birds. I think that they are wrens, but I'm not sure. Anyway, the woods are very quiet and occasionally one of these "songbirds" will chirp. The sound will reverberate between the hills, and shortly thereafter, other birds farther down the valley will respond. The process will repeat and you can hear their interesting communication patterns.I'm here in this two-story shelter with Bluebell, Eagle Eye, KrispyKritter, BearTracks, Sunshine, among others. The shelter sleeps fourteen. The Sassafras Gap Shelter in North Carolina (Blue Bell from Texas standing, Beartracks sitting).View of the Nanthahala River as you hike "north" out of the valley.Marker along the trail.
Date: 2004-03-31
From: Sassafras Gap Shelter, NC

To: Brown Fork Gap Shelter, NC
Miles today: 9.1
Weather: light rain

The shelter area a Sassafras Gap quickly filled up last night. I think that about seventeen people showed up, although some were in tents.March 20th was the Equinox and official end of winter, but winter came back with a vengeance again last night. It didn't get below 30 degrees, but it started to sleet and the winds packed a punch. By morning, there was about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of snow on the ground north of the shelter.Throughout the day it continued to sleet and snow. The visibility was poor with fog. Luckily, there was only a slight wind. The wind makes me anxious when accompanied by precipitation.For the most part, the day was uneventful. There are seven of us here in the Brown Fork Gap Shelter. We have a fire going and are finishing up dinner for the night.One thing to mention about the trail conditions: The hike up from Stecoah Gap is outrageously difficult. I thought that we'd be done with most of the difficult ascents. Even with all of my exercise and training at the gym prior to beginning this hike, it is still difficult. Without a pack, it would still be difficult. To put that in perspective, if you were facing uphill, you can almost put your arms out perpendicular to your body and touch the trail, figuratively speaking. Well, that is all the random thoughts I have for this day. I don't bother to proofread my journal entries because of my limited time, so I hope it makes sense for the most part.Also staying at this shelter is Doug, Grizzly Dave, KrispyKritter, Sunshine, Beartracks, and BooBoo.